Fingernails are an extension of the skin in the human hand. Just like other parts of the body, sickly looking fingernails can mean an underlying health problem. According to Columbia University, if nails grow in pitted, yellowing or misshapen, several vitamin deficiencies or health issues may be cause for concern. These problems can lead to more serious effects if left untreated.
Significance
Fingernails are made of a hard substance called keratin. Keratin is also the material used to form the hooves and horns of animals. Nails can yellow, chip, bend and tear, but more serious issues can mean the patient has an underlying health condition causing the skin to damage.
Identification
Some people are unaware that the white spots are a part of nail growth and health issues. For people who use acrylic nails, the yellowing of the nail beds may go unnoticed for weeks. Small dents, such as pits in the nail bed, or a syndrome called "Spoon Nails," form curves in the nail's surface. Other syndromes that identify problems include dark bands, separation of the nail bed from the skin or opaque coloring.
Types
The type of health concern that relates to poor nail growth depends on the features and syndromes. Yellowing of the nail can indicate a respiratory disorder, such as bronchitis. According to Columbia University, pitting may indicate a more serious skin condition, such as psoriasis. Nails that curve under or dent on the nail bed may mean the patient has an oxygen deficiency or anemia. Opaque nails with black rings can be signs of liver and heart disease or malnutrition.
Treatments
For any serious condition, it's recommended that a person see a physician. For some disorders, the condition can be treated with vitamins and change in the diet. According to the University of Maryland, for nail disorders that indicate a vitamin deficiency, treatment may include a multivitamin each day. Fish oils that contain Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation, which can cause the nail to rise from the bed.
Prevention
Even though poor nail growth can be indicative of an underlying condition, patients can still have nail conditions that are preventable. Nails should remain trimmed and clean. Shoes and socks should be dry to prevent fungus from forming. It is recommended not to walk in a public restroom or shower without wearing shoes. Acrylic nails leave fingernails dry, cracked and yellowing. It may take several weeks for nails to recover when acrylics are removed.
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