What Your Toenails Say About Your Health: Explained

Did you know that 31% of older people find it tough to trim their own toenails? Often, we overlook these signs, but they're crucial, especially if you're dealing with foot discomfort or injuries common in the 40 to 60 age range. But, what do your toenails say about your health? 

In this blog, we'll explore how the state of your toenails can mirror your overall well-being. We'll also talk about when it's time to seek help, and how getting advice from a professional, like Dr. James Hurst, can make a big difference.

What Your Toenails Say About Your Health

Yellow Toenails

Yellow nails can signal a fungal infection, which is pretty common among adults. It can make your nails thicker and cause them to crumble. In rare cases, yellow nails can also indicate more serious conditions like thyroid disease or diabetes.

Brittle or Cracking Toenails

Ever notice your toenails breaking easily? This could be due to dryness or nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of vitamin B and iron. Sometimes, brittle nails can also point to thyroid issues, so keep an eye on other symptoms.

White Spots

Many of us have seen white spots on our nails at some point. However, if you see a lot of them or they don't go away, it might be worth discussing with a healthcare provider to rule out any fungal infections or nutrient deficiencies.

Clubbing

Clubbing involves the swelling of the nail area and the nail itself becoming rounder and more dome-shaped. It's a less common symptom that can indicate lung disease, heart disease, or even liver issues. If you notice this happening, it's crucial to see a doctor for a thorough check-up.

Dark Stripes or Painful Growth

What do your toenails say about your health? Well, if you observe dark stripes running down your nails or you have a painful growth under the nail, it's important to seek medical advice. These symptoms can sometimes indicate skin cancer. 

Spoon Nails

Spoon nails, where the nails become concave and look scooped out, could be a sign of iron deficiency anemia. It's a condition where you don't have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen efficiently, and it can make you feel pretty tired. 

How To Take Care of Your Toenails and Health

Keep Them Clean and Dry

Fungal infections love moisture. Keeping your feet and toenails clean and dry is the first step in preventing infections. After washing, dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.

Proper Nutrition

Your diet affects your nail health. For strong and healthy nails, include foods rich in iron, vitamin B, and calcium in your meals. These nutrients support nail strength and can help prevent brittleness.

Wear the Right Shoes

Tight shoes can cause ingrown toenails and other nail damage. Choose footwear that gives your toes enough room to move. This simple choice can prevent a lot of nail issues.

Consult a Specialist Like Dr. James Hurst

If home care doesn't improve your toenail condition, or if you notice signs like pain, discoloration, or abnormal growths, it's time to see a professional. Consulting a doctor can help diagnose the cause and recommend the right treatment.

Here at our clinic in Centreville, VA, we have Dr. James Hurst, a dedicated podiatrist who specializes in comprehensive foot and ankle care. 

Dr. Hurst and our team offer expert treatments for a variety of foot-related issues, from common conditions like ingrown toenails and plantar fasciitis to more complex cases involving foot pain and ankle injuries. 

With a focus on personalized care, we're here to help you get back on your feet, comfortably and confidently. Let us help you understand what your toenails say about your health.