Changes in your nails may indicate that something is happening to your health. Here's what you need to watch out for.
Your nails can reveal more about your health than you think. Changes in shape, ridges, bumps and discoloration can be potential indicators of underlying diseases in the body.
Taking care of your nails is a simple yet effective way to keep an eye on your overall health. While most nail problems are not usually a cause for concern, some warning signs should not be ignored as they can be early signs of diabetes or liver disease.
“If the nail bed looks washed out and is white with a thin reddish-brown stripe near the tip of the nail, you may have so-called “Terry's nail syndrome,” says hepatologist Alla Yuzhnova, especially for MedicForum.
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Terry's nails, named after the doctor who first discovered this symptom, are a discoloration of the nails.
It is often associated with chronic conditions such as liver failure or diabetes. Unlike healthy nails, which have a visible crescent (hole) shape near the cuticle, Terry's nails appear pale throughout almost the entire nail.
“In addition to liver disease and diabetes, Terry's nails can also be a symptom of other diseases, including cirrhosis liver failure, congestive heart failure, kidney failure and viral hepatitis.
Sometimes Terry's nails can just be a sign of aging, as the blood vessels near the nail bed naturally shrink over time. If you suspect that you may have Terry's nails, it is important to consult with your GP for evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Removal of the underlying condition causing Terry's nails may lead to their elimination. Pressure on the nail bed can temporarily alleviate the discoloration, but does not heal Terry's nails.
Other signs of liver disease
“Common early warning signs includeabdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), enlargement of the abdomen due to fluid accumulation (ascites), shortness of breath, fatigue or weakness, nausea or vomiting. To identify potential liver cancer, pay close attention to your body's warning signs.
These symptoms may be caused by conditions that are not cancer. Regular check-ups with your GP can help identify potential health issues and provide early intervention if needed.
Your nails can hold valuable clues about your overall health, so it's worth keeping an eye on them as part of your personal care.
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What dangerous disorders can indicate white stripes on the nails?
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