Fertility Struggles: The Truth About Having Children

Posted on: 8 June 2016

When it comes to your health, you may have longed for an early warning system: something to alert you to possible medical conditions that you need to have treated. To some degree, you do have such a system. The health of your fingernails and toenails often lets your know that you have a health problem. If you pay attention to them, they can let you know when a doctor's visit is necessary.

Fingernails

The condition of your fingernails can tell you if you have some health issues going on. Dry and brittle nails may just mean that your nail plate is dry from exposure to the elements or household cleaning products. However, it can also indicate hypothyroidism. When you have this condition, your thyroid does not work as quickly as it should, leading to fatigue, weight gain, and a variety of other problems.

If you notice "traverse" lines or lines that go from side to side on more than one of your nails, your body may be fighting off a serious illness. When your body is being besieged by a major illness, your body will not waste its energy on creating nails. If you notice these lines, you need to consult with your doctor to make certain you do not have an illness.

Toenails

If your toenails are concave or have a weird shape, it could be a sign of anemia, an iron deficiency. In addition, pale toenail and pale fingernail beds are also another sign of this condition. In some instances, these signs could point to internal bleeding caused by an ulcer or some other ailment. If you notice this issue, do not ignore it. Seek medical treatment.

If your toenails are thick and yellow, you may be harboring a fungal infection that has burrowed deep within your system. If you have certain other medical conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, you are more likely to develop these infections. Unfortunately, simple aging can also cause this problem. You need to seek the advice of a professional for help with this condition.

If your fingernails or toenails change in color, thickness, or texture, you should ask your podiatrist about this issue. Although the problem could be something simple, it can indicate a serious medical problem. Look at your nails as an early warning system that can spur you to get the proper diagnosis. Sickly looking nails are not normal. To find out more, speak with someone like Hartford Podiatry Group.