Ask Dr. Cobi - Can fingernail changes be a sign of health issues?

Yes! Changes in the fingernail appearance can indicate something deeper is going on in the body. Examples include the following:

• Spoon shaped- Iron deficiency or damage from harsh detergents
• Vertical ridges- metabolic disorders or lung issues
• Horizontal ridges- gout, heart and circulation conditions
• White spots- zinc deficiency
• Small bulges- nail fungi or iron deficiency
• Hourglass shape- bronchial or lung conditions
• Yellow nails- liver and/or gallbladder issues
• Bluish or grey coloured nails- heart condition
• Brown nails- adrenal gland dysfunction 

To discuss any of these symptoms book here.