From ridges to white spots – what your nails reveal about your health and risk of silent killers
DEEP ridges on your fingernails could be a sign of deadly kidney disease or diabetes, experts claim.
Large dents running along the nail could indicate you’re suffering from health problems.
Most changes to your nails are likely a result of nutrient deficiencies.
But Dr Ross Perry, of skin clinic chain Cosmedics, said you should go to the doctors if you experience deep ridges and discolouration of the nails.
He told the Daily Star: “Severe, deep ridges, albeit rare, could be a symptom of a serious medical condition such as kidney disease and would need medical tests to determine the cause.
“Diabetes could also be the underlying health reason for this.”
More than 5million Brits are thought to be living with type 2 diabetes, according to Diabetes UK.
The condition causes blood sugar levels to become too high because the body produces too little of a hormone called insulin.
It can cause problems with your eyes and feet, as well as raise the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Other symptoms include peeing more than usual, feeling thirsty and tired all the time, losing weight without trying to, repeated thrush and blurred vision.
In general, nail ridges are more likely to be a consequence of deficiencies of Vitamin A, protein or calcium.
They can also be caused by dehydration or a skin condition, Dr Perry said.
He added: “Severe iron deficiencies could also create ridges and other changes to the nails.”
Mineral deficiencies, particularly of zinc or calcium, can also cause white spots on nails.
Doctors can check for deficiencies with a blood test if they suspect you are suffering from one.
The white marks, known medically as leukonychia, can also be caused by an allergic reaction, for example to nail polish, gloss, hardener or polish remover.
Marks on your toenail could also be early signs of a fungal infection called white superficial onychomycosis, which can spread to the nail bed and make nails appear flaky.
White spots may also be a result of an injury to the nail, including from shutting your fingers in a door or hitting them with a hammer accidentally.