Nails can give us clues regarding our organs, systems and overall health.

Here are some messages our nails are trying to tell us about our health:

1.  Pale Color:
   White nails are a sign of trauma, anemia, nutrition deficiencies, heart or kidney disease and even poisoning.
2. White Color:
   If nails are predominantly white with dark rims.  This can be a sign of liver issues like hepatitis.
3. Yellow Color:
   This can be indicative of fungus invasion or even bad circulation.  If not treated, the nails will begin to break apart.  There are some instances of serious conditions such as thyroid disease, lung disease, diabetes or even skin conditions like psoriasis. 
4. Blue Color:
   Anytime the body shows blue color such as lips o nails, it is a sign that the body is not getting enough oxygen and the heart may be malfunctioning in some way.  Lungs may also be involved so getting both checked is a good idea. 
5. Rippled texture:
   Rippled or pitted nails is a sign of psoriasis or inflammatory arthritis.  Skin underneath the nails is normally red in color. 
6. Cracked or splitting:
   These nails are dry and break easily.  Thyroid issues or disease may be an issue.  If the nails are also yellow, there may be fungus along with dryness. 
7. Puffy at the fold of the nails:
   This may be due to a condition called paronychia.  This will cause inflammation, tenderness around the skin surrounding the nail.  This can be a sign of Fungus Candida Albicans, psoriasis.  Steroidal lotions can help. 
8. Dark lines under the nail:
   This may indicate infection, injury to the nail or skin cancer.  
9. Gnawed nails:
   Bitting nails is a sign of anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder.  
   
   If your nails are changing drastically, please see a doctor to find out if there is an underlying condition.  Your body is always trying to communicate with you.  
   
   Dr. Amie Gregory, DC, CCEP, ANF is a San Francisco, CA and San Carlos, CA chiropractor that understands full body health.  She works with athletes, expectant moms, office workers and everyone else in between.  Contact our San Francisco, CA chiropractic office or San Carlos, CA chiropractic office today!
   
   Resources:

https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/ss/slideshow-nails-and-health