7 signs in your nails that could indicate a serious health condition

Laura Hampson
·5-min read
Close-up of two female hands with natural nails, overgrown cuticle on a blue background, top view, copy space. hand and nail care. The concept of health, self-care
The health of your fingernails could indicate some underlying conditions. (Getty Images)

Our nails a a part of our body we likely don’t think about too often – but their appearance could indicate some underlying health conditions.

“Changes to the colour or texture of your toenails and fingernails are not usually caused by anything serious,” GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, Dr Bhavini Shah, says.

“However, the appearance of ridges, depressions, lines and more can be an early warning sign of deficiencies right through to serious health concerns like heart disease.”

Before you get too concerned, Dr Shah adds that it’s normal for nails to change over time, such as getting brittle as you age.

“Changes in nail texture are also common during pregnancy, although this should return to normal within six months of having a baby,” Dr Shah explains.

“Similarly, if you injure your nail, it’s not unusual for it to become loose, change colour, and even fall off completely. If this does happen, generally fingernails grow back within six months, although toenails can take up to 18 months.”

Dr Shah says that some “common and potentially serious diseases can present themselves through the appearance of your nails”.

“You should see your GP if you notice a change in your nails that cannot be explained by something such as an injury,” she adds.

“You should also consult a medical professional if the skin around your nail has become sore, red, swollen and sore because this can indicate an infection.”

Read on for the nail signs and symptoms to look out for.

Close-up of brittle nails. Damage to the nails after using polish. Peeling on the nails. Damage to the nail. Shattered nails.
Brittle nails could suggest thyroid issues. (Getty Images)

Spoon-shaped nails – iron deficiency anaemia

Spoon-shaped nails that curve inwards can be a sign of iron deficiency anaemia, Shah explains.

“This condition is common after pregnancy and is where the level of iron in your blood is too low. Other symptoms include tiredness, shortness of breath, pale skin and headaches,” she adds.

“It’s important to identify the cause of iron deficiency anaemia so book an appointment with your GP if you have any concerns. Your GP may recommend a blood test to check your red blood cell count.

“Usually, symptoms are fairly simple to resolve by using iron tablets and eating iron-rich foods including red meat, beans such as kidney beans and chickpeas and dried fruit such as apricots.”

Loose nails – Hyperthyroidism

Dr Shah says that some changes in your nails could also indicate hyperthyroidism, which is when your thyroid gland overproduces certain hormones.

“Loose nails are a common symptom of hyperthyroidism,” she adds. “Other common symptoms associated with hyperthyroidism are anxiety, sleep trouble, weight loss and fatigue.”

Brittle nails – Hypothyroidism

Another nail condition that could be caused by your thyroid is brittle nails, as this can be a sign of having an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).

“It’s important that an underactive thyroid is diagnosed as quickly as possible. This is usually done via a blood test,” Dr Shah explains.

“Accompanying symptoms may include weight gain, thinning hair, stiff muscles and joints and depression.”

Red or purple lines, or clubbing – Heart disease

“Generally, red or purple lines under your nails are due to an injury. But if you notice these and don’t recall injuring your nail, you might want to book a doctor’s appointment because these can be a symptom of heart disease,” Dr Shah says.

“Clubbing can also be a suggestion of heart disease, a major cause of death worldwide. This is where the nail curves over rounded fingertips or the ends of the toes, resulting in a bulbous appearance.

“Other symptoms that indicate heart disease include extreme fatigue, swollen ankles and pain in the chest, stomach, legs, arms, jaw or back.”

A bruised finger after being hit by a heavy object. A bruise under the nail plate. The hand of an elderly woman
If bruises under your nails aren't caused by an injury, speak to your GP. (Getty Images)

White nails – Liver disease

Also known as Terry’s nails, after the doctor who discovered the symptom, this condition is where two-thirds of the nail bed becomes white except for a red or pink strip at the nail tip.

“Terry’s nail is a tell-tale sign of liver disease,” Dr Shah says. “Other symptoms of the disease include fatigue, yellow skin and loss of appetite.”

Small depressions – Skin conditions

“Small dents or pits on the surface of the nails are common in people with skin disorders such as psoriasis, eczema and alopecia areata - a specific type of hair loss,” Dr Shah says.

“You’d expect other outward symptoms. For example, psoriasis typically causes dry, scaly patches of skin, while eczema causes the skin to become dry, itchy, cracked and sore. Alopecia areata involves patchy hair loss.”

Horizontal ridges – General poor health

If you notice deep lines or grooves across your fingernails, these are known as Beau’s lines, which is usually caused by a severe illness or infection.

“Some people developed Beau’s lines after they had COVID-19,” Dr Shah explains. “If you notice Beau’s lines and are concerned, I’d recommend booking an appointment with your GP to discuss your general health.”

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