Update Part 2: 6 More Health Risks Your Fingernails Tells You That You Didn't Know (14 Overall)

Fingernails and diseases don’t go together in most minds… but they should. Your fingernails can give you valuable health warnings and signal the prese

Here's Part 1: 8 Health Risks Your Fingernails Tells You That You Didn't Know 👈

9. Beau’s Lines

These are deep grooves or indentations that run horizontally across the nail. They often show up when growth at the nail root is temporarily interrupted by injury or illness.

Possible causes include:

• Severe illness (like high fever from measles, pneumonia, or COVID-19)
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Zinc deficiency
• Chemotherapy

These lines are like tree rings-marking times of stress in your body.

Beau’s Lines

10. Nail Separation (Onycholysis)

This is when the nail lifts away from the nail bed, creating a gap that can trap dirt and bacteria.

Conditions linked to this include:

• Thyroid disorders (especially hyperthyroidism)
• Psoriasis
• Fungal infections
• Allergic reactions to nail products or trauma

If you see your nails lifting, don’t try to force them off—it’s time for a checkup.

Nail Separation (Onycholysis)

11. Yellow Nails

While yellowing can happen from nail polish or smoking, it can also be a sign of more serious problems.

Health concerns include:

• Respiratory diseases (especially chronic bronchitis)
• Lymphedema (fluid buildup in the body’s tissues)
• Fungal infections
• Diabetes

When yellowing comes with nail thickening and slowed growth, it may point to "yellow nail syndrome."

Yellow Nail Syndrome

12. White Spots (Leukonychia)

White dots or streaks are common and often harmless, especially if caused by trauma. However, persistent or widespread white patches can indicate:

• Zinc or calcium deficiency
• Fungal infection
• Kidney disease
• Heavy metal poisoning (like arsenic)

While usually minor, it’s worth noting if the spots are new or spreading.

White Spots (Leukonychia)

13. Dark Lines Beneath the Nail (Melanonychia)

These dark vertical bands, especially if they appear suddenly or change in appearance, are potentially serious.

Could signal:

• Melanoma (a dangerous skin cancer that can appear under nails)
• Injury to the nail bed

If you notice a dark stripe that wasn’t there before, see a dermatologist immediately—especially if it's on one nail only and getting darker.

Dark Lines Beneath the Nail (Melanonychia)

14. Bluish or Purplish Nail Beds

If your entire nail bed looks blue or purplish (not just in spots), it’s a sign your blood isn't carrying enough oxygen.

Possible causes include:

• Cyanosis (low blood oxygen levels)
• Chronic lung or heart conditions
• Raynaud’s disease

This should never be ignored—it can be a sign of a serious circulatory or respiratory issue.

Bluish or Purplish Nail Beds

Your fingernails won’t be the only signs of these diseases, but they can provide confirmation or motivation to seek medical care. Don’t ignore your hands or the health warnings they send. Fingernails and disease are more closely related than you think – check your nails often to protect your health!