Our nails can tell us a lot about our health. They can be used as a sign to determine if we have an underlying disease or condition. Thin, brittle nails can also be caused by external factors. Brittle, thin nails is, however, a common patient complaint, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.
Prolonged Wetting and Drying
Getting nails wet and then drying them often for a long period of time can cause nails to become brittle and thin, according to the University of Mississippi. To help prevent this, it is important to protect the hands when they are in water by wearing gloves. Applying lotion after wetting and drying hands can also be beneficial.
Tricho Dento Ossueous Syndrome
Tricho dento ossueous syndrome is a genetic disorder that is autosomal dominant. Those with this disorder often have thin, brittle nails; curly or kinky hair; dense, long bones; and tooth enamel that is poorly developed, according to Cigna National Organization of Rare Disorders.
Tooth and Nail Syndrome
Tooth and nail syndrome is rare, and it is a genetic disorder. This disorder mainly affects the nails, skin, teeth and/or hair, according to Cigna National Organization of Rare Disorders. This syndrome is inherited through an autosomal dominant trait.
Iron Deficiency
Iron deficiency is associated with koilonychia. This condition is a nail condition in which the nails are abnormally shaped, thin, curved inward and have raised edges, according to MedlinePlus. Also referred to as iron deficiency anemia, this condition can also cause brittle nails, severe fatigue, an abnormal feeling of crawling or tingling in the legs, pale skin, weakness, poor appetite, shortness of breath, headaches, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, cold feet and hands, a sore or an inflamed tongue, and irritability. An abnormal craving for odd things, such as dirt, ice or pure starch can also occur.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism, also referred to as an underactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland is not producing sufficient amounts of thyroid hormones. Nails and hair can become brittle. This disorder can also cause fatigue, depression, sluggishness, menstrual periods that are unusually heavy, sensitivity to cold, muscle weakness, constipation, dry and pale skin, muscle aches, puffy face, joint pain, stiff joints and muscles, joint swelling, voice hoarseness, tender muscles, unexplained weight gain, and a higher level of cholesterol in the blood, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Member Comments