The appearance of nails can change because of normal events such as aging; however, MedlinePlus notes that abnormal conditions of the nails include changes in color, texture, shape or thickness caused by injury, infection, disease or poisoning. Some changes in the conditions of nails are harmless, while other changes are signs that something is wrong and medical attention is required. White, brittle nails combine two nail conditions, one of which requires contact with a doctor, that hint at several possible causes.
Normal and Abnormal Nails
Healthy nails are free of ridges, grooves and discoloration, according to MayoClinic.com. Keratin, made from layers of protein, grows from beneath your cuticles to create your nails. Vertical ridges and conditions caused by injury eventually clear up. More serious changes in nail appearance include yellowing, pitting, curling, nail bed damage, spotting and splinter hemorrhages. Brittle nails can indicate both an easily corrected and harmless condition and several serious medical conditions. White nails always signal a serious condition.
White Nail Syndrome
White nail syndrome, also known as leukonychia, can be an indication of arsenic poisoning, renal failure, pneumonia or heart disease. White nail syndrome also is a symptom of too much albumin in the blood, a condition known as hypoalbuminemia. White nails can also indicate liver disease, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. White nails are one of the nail conditions that requires a call to your doctor.
Brittle, Splitting Nails
Brittle nails are often a normal result of aging; however, the condition, known as onychoschizia, is usually caused by external factors, such as too little or too much moisture, chemicals, solvents, detergents and other irritants. The brittle nails condition affects mostly women and is characterized by soft, thin nails that split, chip or flake easily. Brittle nails can indicate the presence of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, iron-deficiency anemia, fungus or the side effects of chemotherapy, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Brittle Nails Treatment
Brittle nails not caused by an underlying medical condition might not be serious, but may often be painful. The treatment of underlying conditions might help resolve the brittle nails symptoms; however, the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology recommends a combination of care and protection. Wearing gloves protects your nails from water and irritants. Switch to mild hand soaps, limit hand washing to the palm area and dry thoroughly. Hand moisturizers, clear nail-strengthening polishes and biotin supplements also help repair brittle nails.
Nail Care
Whether underlying conditions or external factors cause your nail abnormalities, careful and consistent care of your nails can help prevent further damage, bacterial growth, infections and permanent damage. If the condition of your nails reflects an underlying condition, your doctor will want to examine them during your appointments as part of your medical care. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you cut and shape your nails regularly, protect your cuticles and contact your doctor to report any changes to the appearance of your nails.
Warning
MedlinePlus recommends you call your doctor if your nails are pale, have white lines or show white color under the nails.
