Disease of the nails. How to find out about health by fingernails. dark vertical stripes

Experienced doctors can even use early diagnosis of fingernails to determine the state of the body, because concave, convex or too flat nail plates cannot be considered healthy. Such deviations indicate certain problems, and sometimes require serious treatment. Medicine confirms that the condition of the nail plates directly depends on human health. They are used to diagnose fungus, lung problems, anemia and other pathologies. There are several criteria for determining the disease by the nails on the hands.

Fingernail diagnosis

Even ancient people associated the appearance of the nail plates with the state of a certain internal organ. Today it has been proven by medicine, so it is often used to diagnose the body. Several characteristics are studied: color, structure, shape, hole and spots on the nail plate. Deviations for each of these criteria indicate a number of specific pathologies.

What does a healthy person's nail plate look like?

The nail plate is considered normal without any cracks, tubercles, grooves, spots. She has an even pink, smooth surface, slight gloss. The plate itself is slightly transparent, and the tips are white or ivory. Nail healthy person moderately flexible, hard, dense. At its base is a crescent-shaped lunula. Its color ranges from white to pale pink. The shape of the nail plate can be different, as it depends on hereditary factors.

The structure of the nail plate

When diagnosing, the surface of a healthy plate does not have pits, dents or tuberosities, it is even, evenly colored. It consists of dozens of layers of translucent smooth keratinized cells, which are located close to each other. Due to its porous structure, it absorbs all substances that fall on its surface. This helps to heal fungal diseases through local preparations. When diagnosing on the plate, you can see several of its parts:

  • eponychium is living skin at the base;
  • hyponychium, or subungual plate - consists of spiny and basal cells;
  • free leading edge - protrudes beyond the edge of the finger;
  • lunula, or hole - a white area at the base in the shape of a crescent.

What organs are fingernails responsible for?

One of the most "speaking" parts of the body is the nail plate. Each of them reflects the state of a particular organ. On this principle, diagnostics by nails is based. Organs for which each finger is responsible:

  • lungs, bronchi, brain - thumb;
  • teeth, mouth - index finger;
  • heart, blood vessels - medium;
  • nerves, kidneys - ring finger;
  • intestines, female reproductive organs - little finger.

How to determine the disease on the nails of the hands

To determine health by fingernails, you need to carefully consider the plates. Knowing their normal state, you can notice some deviations. The presence of problems in the body during nail diagnostics is indicated by changes in the following characteristics:

  • plate colors;
  • shape or relief of the nail surface;
  • the state of the lunula;
  • structure of the nail plate.

Nail color and diseases

A healthy nail plate has pink color. If she suddenly began to change her shade, then this is a clear sign of problems in the body. Diseases of the nails on the hands in this case are detected by the following diagnostic signs:

  1. Two color plate. Its upper part is much darker than the lower one, which signals kidney disease and kidney failure.
  2. Dark stripe dividing the nail in half. He talks about the development of a malignant tumor of the human skin - melanoma.
  3. Brown tint. It is a signal of diabetes mellitus, diseases of the endocrine system, kidney failure, Addison's disease.
  4. Leukonychia - the appearance of small white spots on the plate. It develops against the background of a lack of calcium, iron and zinc. Also, the body lacks vitamins C, E and A. When the spots grow and take the form of stripes, this indicates a protein deficiency, circulatory disorders, kidney failure, problems with the colon.
  5. Blue. Indicates to a person the pathology of the respiratory system, including infectious diseases of the lungs. If blue color appeared at the base of the plate, the diagnosis may be diabetes mellitus.
  6. Completely white nail plate. Appears in patients with cirrhosis of the liver or diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
  7. Yellow nail color. They acquire such a shade in case of liver disease and poor digestion, pathologies of the lymphatic system or lungs.
  8. Redness of the nails. Occurs with an increase in the number of red blood cells - erythrocytes.
  9. Hazy yellowish color. It speaks of a fungal infection, if, against the background of a change in shade, a thickening of the plate is observed and its separation from the bed.

The shape and relief of the nail plate

In addition to discoloration, in some diseases, deformations of the plate can be observed. Diagnosis of the nails of the hands allows you to determine the following related ailments described in the table:

Changes

What pathologies indicate

Bulging nail that looks like a watch glass

It is a sign of chronic liver disease or heart failure. It is also observed in blood diseases, thyroid diseases, congenital pulmonary tuberculosis, hepatitis, colitis, malabsorption in the intestines. In rare cases, it may indicate the onset of cancer.

Concave spoon-like nail

It is a sign of iron deficiency in the body.

Flat, split at the end of the nail plate

Indicates helminthic invasion.

triangular nail

It is a characteristic symptom of diseases of the spine.

perforated nail

Indicates pathologies of the spleen.

Short flat nail with elevation

Indicates organic heart disease.

Longitudinal grooves

They appear against the background of the development of rheumatism or inflammation of the teeth and sinuses.

Transverse brittle grooves

They signal pathologies of the liver and gastrointestinal tract, symptoms of diseases of the spleen. Often, transverse grooves appear when there is a lack of zinc in the body.

arcuate lines

They develop due to a lack of protein.

Small dimples all over the plate

They talk about the onset of inflammation in the joints, accompanied by psoriasis.

lunula of the nail

In the diagnosis of nails, the state of the lunula is also taken into account. Its absence on at least one finger and a pale nail bed are a sign of a decrease in hemoglobin and red blood cells. These are diseases such as anemia and anemia. If the hole has thinned or completely disappeared on a certain finger, then this also indicates problems in the body:

  1. On the thumb. The hole here reflects the state of the skull and brain. If she disappeared, then the person serious problems with head.
  2. On the index finger. On it, the hole disappears with diseases of the liver, lungs, large intestine and gynecological problems.
  3. On average. The disappearance of the hole here speaks of diseases of the circulatory system, problems with blood vessels and pressure.
  4. On the nameless The hole on this finger reflects the state of the lymphatic system and metabolism.
  5. On the little finger. Here, the lunula reflects problems with the small intestine and irregular heart rhythms and other heart diseases.

Grooves and stripes

Transverse grooves identified by diagnostics are often a sign of improper hand care. In addition, they may appear due to stress, infectious or other diseases. The lack of zinc in the body and malnutrition is also manifested by grooves on the nail plates. Longitudinal lines appear less often. Their cause may be:

  • acute malnutrition;
  • severe arterial disease;
  • arthritis;
  • lichen planus;
  • excessive consumption of carbohydrates;
  • bowel disease;
  • lack of iron.

Diagnosis of diseases on the nails of the hands when a pattern appears

Problems in the body are indicated not only by a change in color, but also by the appearance of various patterns in the form of spots, lines, bruises, etc. In a normal state, this should not be observed. A healthy nail plate has a uniform pink color. The appearance of any drawings on it indicates the following diseases:

  1. White spots. They talk about low hemoglobin, reduced immunity, symptoms of neurosis, lack of vitamins.
  2. Black spots. Appear on the background of endocarditis.
  3. A pair of horizontal stripes. Observed with a lack of protein in the diet. He is in in large numbers excreted from the body in kidney disease.
  4. Division across into 2 halves different colors- dairy and normal. Indicates the pathology of the kidneys in the advanced stage.
  5. A line that did not appear due to mechanical impact. Appears in case of fever and high temperature. Indicates past illnesses.
  6. Brown or beige stain. It is a warning about the development of cancer.
  7. brown or yellow spot at the edge of the nail plate indicates psoriasis.
  8. Crumble grooves or white flaky spots. They are a sign of fungal diseases.
  9. Bruising. Observed with mechanical impact of the nail plate. The reason is the rupture of blood vessels under it and hemorrhage into soft tissues.

Fingernail problems and nutrition

The main cause of nail problems is malnutrition. Based on specific changes in the plate, it is easy to diagnose a lack of certain trace elements or identify an unbalanced diet. As a result, the nail plates become brittle and often break. It is possible to restore their beautiful healthy appearance only after identifying the cause of the deterioration. This will help diagnostics on the nails of the hands with signs that indicate a lack of trace elements or an imbalance in nutrition.

Lack of vitamins and microelements

Healthy nails grow without burrs, the code around them does not have cracks. With a lack of vitamins of a certain group, some deviations from the norm appear:

  • cracking along and across the plate, the nail plates bend and exfoliate - with a lack of vitamin C;
  • deep hangnails - with a deficiency of vitamins A or E;
  • numbness of the fingers - with a lack of B vitamins;
  • white spots - with a low level of zinc;
  • slow growth- with a lack of calcium;
  • fragility of nails - with magnesium deficiency.

Diet imbalance

Excess or lack of certain foods in the human diet also affects the condition of the nails. In this case, the following changes may be observed:

  • white spots on the plate - an excess of sugar in the blood;
  • horizontal dents - a sharp change in diet;
  • concave plates - a sign of anemia (lack of iron);
  • vertical grooves - poor absorption of nutrients;
  • any changes in shape and color - an insufficient amount of protein.

Diagnosis of toenails

Like the diagnosis of the nails on the hands, a study of the state of health is also carried out on the legs. In this case, the following signs are taken into account:

  • lack of lunula - a decrease in the number of red blood cells in the blood, anemia;
  • two-color nail (light at the base, dark at the edge) - renal failure;
  • discoloration and a dark longitudinal strip - skin cancer (melanoma);
  • yellow against the background of delamination and separation from the nail bed - an advanced stage of a fungal disease.

Deterioration in the appearance of nails

A sudden deterioration in the appearance of nails can manifest itself in different ways. More often there is a slowdown in their growth. In addition, they become too brittle and brittle. Often the phenomenon of delamination and splitting of the plate. All this speaks of problems in the body. If measures are taken in time, then it is possible to restore the condition of the nail plates, returning them to a healthy appearance with an even smooth structure, matte pink color, pale pink lunula.

Why is it happening

If the nail plates become brittle and brittle, grow slowly, then main reason this condition is a metabolic disorder. Such changes may result from:

  • lack of iron, vitamins of group B, A;
  • deterioration of the thyroid gland or kidneys;
  • poor blood supply.

When the nail exfoliates or splits, the cause is energy depletion. digestive system. This is also observed with poor blood circulation. Other causes of delamination:

  • failure in work nervous system;
  • problems with the genitals;
  • regular application of varnish, removal of the coating with a liquid containing acetone;
  • dry air, a gap between the temperature of the street and the house;
  • cutting with wire cutters or scissors;
  • using household cleaners without gloves.

What to look out for

The first thing that advises you to pay attention to the diagnosis of the nails of the hands is the diet. With a lack of vitamins, it is worth including more fresh fruits and vegetables in your menu. When cleaning the house or washing dishes, be sure to wear gloves, and after contact with aggressive products, wipe the nail with apple cider vinegar. Hands should be allowed to rest from varnish at least once every 2 weeks. For filing, it is better not to take a metal plate, because it severely damages the nail plate.

Nails and diseases of the body with a photo

Video

The methods for determining diseases by the nails, which we will discuss in this article, will help to take timely measures to get rid of the health problem that has arisen.

An experienced physician can determine the state of human health, not only by the color of the skin of the face and the presence of edema, circles under the eyes, but also by the condition of the nails.

What do nails say about human health?

Even in ancient times, each nail of the hand was associated with the state of health of a certain internal organ of the human body.
Healthy nails have a pink color, a smooth surface, a little natural shine. The slightest deviations from this indicate the appearance of health problems.

Video: 5 things nails tell about your health

How to determine the disease by the nails of the hands?

When determining the disease, one should take into account the change in nails according to:

  • Nail plate pattern
  • The state of the lunula
  • Nail shape
  • Nail color

Diagnosis by the condition of the nails

Plate pattern



  • White spots - low hemoglobin, lack of vitamins, reduced immunity, problems with the central nervous system are possible

If only on the index fingers, then there may be excessive deposition of calcium salts

  • Black spots are a sign of endocarditis
  • The nail changes greatly due to fungus and psoriasis
  • Paired horizontal stripes - a lack of protein in the diet. Kidney disease, due to which excess protein is excreted from the body
  • The division across into two halves indicates an advanced kidney disease. The bottom of one half usually has a milky color, the top is normal
  • A line that does not appear from physical impact is formed when high temperature, fever. They indicate already transferred diseases, the deeper the line, the more serious the disease.
  • Black spots that did not appear from the injury indicate liver disease, inflammation of the heart membrane
  • Beige or brown formation under the nail, warns of the possibility of cancer
  • yellow or brown spots on the nail at the edge of the nail, may appear due to psoriasis
  • White spots in the form of flakes or crumbling grooves warn of the appearance of fungal diseases
  • Brittle and exfoliating nails, a sign of a thyroid disorder. At the same time, if hair falls out, the skin flakes off, it can indicate the presence of beriberi and hormonal imbalance.
  • Small numerous dimples - a sign of psoriasis
  • Nail tears or deep grooves - may be dysbacteriosis or intestinal ulcer

Lunula state



observe the state of the lunula

Lunula are white semicircles on the nails, on the border with the cuticle.

  • If the lunula has disappeared - problems with the lungs
  • If only on the index finger, then the pancreas, liver, and colon are not working well. There may be pelvic disease. Spheres lore
  • On the middle finger, the disappearance of the hole, notifies of a vegetovascular disease, heart rhythm disturbance, hypertension or hypotension, this is a harbinger of a heart failure. vascular system
  • If there is no hole on the ring finger or the hole decreases, this may be a violation of the endocrine system, lymph nodes, this is a call for a mandatory examination of the body
  • On the little finger, the hole disappears quickly, as this is a sign of a problem with the small intestine. May also disappear in hypertensive patients suffering from heart rhythm disturbances

Video: Diagnosis by nails

Toenail diagnostics



Toes, as well as hands, can say a lot about a person's health:

  • Big both legs are responsible for the brain
  • Index finger on the right - lungs (large intestine), adrenal glands. Left - heart (small intestine), thyroid gland
  • The middle toe of the right foot is associated with the internal and external genital organs. Left - sense organs, pineal gland
  • The ring finger of the right foot diagnoses the kidneys, bladder, testicles and ovaries
  • Left toenail - brain and spinal cord, pituitary gland
  • Little finger nail on right leg is responsible for the health of the spleen, stomach, pancreas. Left nail - liver, gallbladder, thymus
  • By the condition of the toenails, you can find out about vascular diseases
    thickened nails thumbs legs that cannot be cut with scissors speak of a chronic disease of the arteries and veins
  • The cyanotic color of the toenails indicates severe circulatory disorders and thrombosis.
  • Brittleness and delamination of the nail is a sign of a fungal disease

Nail shape and health



Checking health by the shape of the nails

An important factor in the diagnosis is the shape of the nails.
The outlines of the nail plate are considered: in shape, pattern, size, concave or convex.

There are many options for the shape of nails changed as a result of the disease, consider the main ones:

  • A bent, depressed finger over the entire nail covering indicates a chronic or hereditary addiction to alcohol.
  • A flat and short nail indicates heart disease
  • A nail in the form of watch glasses is formed from diseases of the bronchi, heart, lungs. Swollen last phalanges warn of cirrhosis of the liver, hepatitis, ulcers, thyroid problems
  • Increased area of ​​the nail - a problem with the lungs
    It is important to understand here that the shape of the nail must be looked at in the comparative period: it was narrow, but it became wide - it speaks of a problem. The presence of natural indicators is not considered
  • A flat nail warns of problems with the respiratory organs. If there are additional changes, it is possible bronchial asthma. Additional foliation of the marginal rim, diagnoses helminthic invasion
  • A nail bent inward in the form of a pipe is a harbinger of an oncological disease. You should not make a diagnosis yourself, but you should make an appointment with the doctor
  • Triangular nails predict spinal disease
  • Concavity in the center of the nail and a bluish tint indicate anemia
  • Bright pink, rounded, magnifying glass nail - a sign of respiratory disease

Nail color and health



The state of health also depends on the color of the legs:

  • Yellow nails - the liver is not in order
  • Red surface - possible erythremia
  • The entire white surface or partly not reaching the lunula warns of cirrhosis of the liver.
  • Purple and blue nails - congenital heart disease

Nail diagnostics photo and description



Dividing the nail in half - eczema, psoriasis

Cross grooves are a sign of improper nail care. They are also formed due to stress, an infectious disease and other serious illnesses that have already been transferred. Due to poor nutrition and lack of zinc in the body

The longitudinal line is rare. Appears due to acute malnutrition, severe arterial disease, arthritis, lichen planus. Vertical grooves may be the result of excessive consumption of carbohydrates, iron deficiency, bowel disease

White nails, a sign of the development of cirrhosis of the liver, thyroid disease

Nails half white, half pink, warning of kidney failure

Hand nails health table


Changes in the nail plate Possible disease
white nails Hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver
Yellowish, thickened, slow growing nails Lung problems
Yellowish nails with a slight bluing at the base Diabetes
Half white, half pink nails kidney failure
red nails Problems with heart
Pale and white nails Anemia
Furrows or delamination of the surface of the nail Psoriasis or arthritis
Thickening of the terminal phalanges of the fingers lung disease
black lines under nails Melanoma
Red, uneven lines along the nail fold Lupus, a connective tissue disease


Without professional knowledge, it is very difficult to diagnose the disease from photographs of nails. The violations of the nail plate listed in the article provide assistance only in the direction that you should pay attention to your health. In case of cardinal changes in natural nails, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Video: Nail Diagnosis

Usually, when you see changes on the nails of the hands or feet, the first desire is to run to the pharmacy for an antifungal ointment. However, the reasons for such changes can be completely different, moreover, non-fungal diseases of the nails on the hands or feet sometimes act only as a symptom of other destructive processes in the body.

Causes of Unhealthy Nails

Normally, the nail should be smooth, loose and have a pink color. If it changes color, shape, becomes brittle and brittle, the nail plate partially or completely moves away from the phalanx of the finger, this may indicate the presence of the following problems:

In addition, nails are subject to age-related changes. By old age, they can turn yellow, become hard or brittle.

Descriptions of diseases

Simultaneous diseases of the nails on the hands and feet are quite rare, usually the nails of the upper extremities are affected.

Hippocratic nails

The extreme phalanges of the fingers thicken, the nails become convex and round. Hippocrates was the first to describe this phenomenon that affects the hands, for which it got its name. It is not an independent disease, it may appear as a symptom when:

  • prolonged endogenous intoxication;
  • disorders of the cardiovascular system;

Sometimes Hippocratic nails can be a hereditary or congenital pathology. In cancers, it develops rapidly over months or weeks; in other cases, the process of change can take years.

Scleronychia

Hypertrophic changes occur both on the arms and legs. The nails harden, become transparent, taking on a yellowish-gray tint, over time they can separate from the nail bed. This is considered a manifestation of endocrine diseases, although the main causes of scleronychia are still not known.

Onychogryphosis

Another name is "bird's claw". May develop as a result of frostbite or severe bruising.

The nail becomes dense and uneven, taking on an unnatural color from gray-yellow and brown to almost black. In addition, its free edge is bent, like a bird, or twisted in a spiral.

Treatment consists of softening the surface of the nail with a salicylic patch or ointment, and in advanced cases it may be scraped off or surgically removed.

Onyhauksis

Growth of the subungual cornea, which is accompanied by darkening of the nail and inflammation of the nail fold. It affects 1-2 fingers, in rare advanced cases, it can be observed on all fingers and toes. It usually manifests itself as a result of malnutrition of the nail in diseases such as:

  • elephant disease.

Also, the cause may be an injury or poor-quality manicure, sometimes onyhauksis warns of a lack of certain vitamins and minerals in the body. For correction, diluting and activating blood circulation drugs are prescribed, with beriberi, the menu is enriched with essential nutrients and multivitamins.

Onychomadesis

Onyhauxis of the thumb nail

Sometimes it accompanies fungal or bacterial diseases of the nails on the hands and feet, often due to mechanical damage or regular nail biting (onychophagy). The nail bed becomes inflamed, the nail matrix itself darkens and after a short time completely disappears from the finger. This happens both from the free edge and from the inside, depending on the cause of the disease.

Treatment is aimed at improving blood circulation in the sore finger through massage, vitamins and medicines. If onychomadesis is of infectious origin, the disease that caused it is treated accordingly. In addition, they try to protect the exposed and bacteria, otherwise the affected nail will never grow.

Beau transverse furrows (Beau-Reil lines)

Appear due to inhibition of the growth zone of the nail due to metabolic disorders, trauma or unsuccessful manicure, quite often appears in children as a reaction to a viral infection. Depending on the course of the disease, there can be either one or several, which makes the nail look wavy (see photo above).

The Bo line has the form of an arc stretching across the entire surface of the nail from one side roller to another. Its depth can reach 1 mm and directly depends on the severity of the course of the disease. In difficult cases, the groove can pull the nail so hard that its free edge ceases to receive enough nutrition, gradually atrophies and leaves the finger.

After eliminating the factor that provoked the appearance of the Bo line, defects on the nails eventually disappear on their own.

Longitudinal furrows

They are also called vertical. Possible reasons their appearance:

  • age-related changes;
  • diseases of the nervous system;
  • spinal cord injury;
  • defects in the work of the intestines or pancreas;
  • diseases of the cardiovascular system;
  • damage to the root of the nail plate;
  • lack of iron and.

After the cause is eliminated, the nails themselves take on their original appearance. For the duration of treatment or age-related changes, to improve the appearance, the longitudinal furrows can be hidden under a layer of special varnish.

Leukonychia

White spots appear on the nails. Their shape, number and location differ with different dysfunctions of the body. The appearance of spots on the nails indicates the presence of such problems:

  • protein deficiency;
  • deficiency of vitamins (especially C, E, A) and trace elements (calcium, zinc, iron);
  • fungus;
  • violations of metabolic processes in the body;
  • a strong load on the nervous system: stress, anxiety;
  • bowel problems;
  • frequent contact with household chemicals, low-quality varnishes;
  • disorders of the cardiovascular system;
  • kidney disease;

If there is no suspicion of disease, then this defect can be corrected independently. It will be enough to establish a rest and work regime, supplement the diet with products with the necessary nutrients, and wear gloves when in contact with household chemicals.

Onychodystrophy

There are changes in the periungual roller, nail plate and bed. The nail becomes less transparent, its thickness changes, growth slows down. It is also possible the appearance of longitudinal furrows and a change in color to grayish-yellow. The causes of this nail disease on the hands can be:

  • mycoses;
  • trauma;
  • ( , );
  • avitaminosis;
  • chronic diseases of the endocrine system;
  • problems in the work of the heart and lungs;
  • interaction with alkalis, acids, chemicals with unprotected hands.

Onycholysis

Refers to onychodystrophy. With onycholysis, a change in the color of the nail plate from yellow to brown is observed. The nail becomes brittle and partly or completely departs from its bed. Possible reasons:

  • fungal and bacterial infections;
  • taking antibiotics;
  • trauma;
  • contact with allergens;
  • some chronic diseases.

Ingrown nail

This type of toenail disease occurs, since the main causes are too tight shoes and improper cutting. The nail grows into the lateral roller, which causes swelling of the finger, pain when walking, inflammation of the soft tissues.

In mild cases, you can get by with foot baths and softening compresses; in neglected cases, only a surgeon can correct an ingrown nail.

Onychorrhexis

Brittleness and fragility of the nails, which leads to their delamination. It usually accompanies diseases and conditions that cause impaired microcirculation in the fingers. Also, the cause can be a harsh diet, frequent contact with an alkaline environment. Onychorrhexis is extremely rare on the legs.

anonychia

Absence of the nail plate. It can be both congenital and acquired after trauma, diseases of the nervous system of an organic nature, some dermatoses.

Koilonychia

The nail becomes thinner and becomes concave like a spoon. Possible reasons:

  • heredity;
  • permanent destructive action of acetone or household chemicals;
  • some infections;
  • wrong manicure.

micronichia

Pathologically small, shortened nails. May be congenital or develop as a result of nail biting. Also, micronichia sometimes manifests itself as a symptom in diseases such as:

  • progressive scleroderma;
  • Trenaunay syndrome;
  • flat angioma;
  • Genuine epilepsy;
  • brushes.

Onychoshisis

Transverse stratification of the nail plate. Often occurs due to the aggressive influence of substances in household chemicals and decorative means for nails. Often found in professions with increased mechanical stress on the fingers: musicians, printers. Onychoshisis also appears with beriberi.

Onychomycosis

Most often it can be found on the legs and there are a lot of their varieties, so for more effective treatment it is better to consult a dermatologist.

You can get the fungus anywhere, but it needs a warm, humid, and dark environment to thrive, which is why it's the feet that are most affected. The disease develops for a long time, the first symptoms may appear only after a few months.

At first, itching is felt in the infected area, the skin begins to dry and peel off. Further, the nail itself is affected, its color changes, cracks appear on the surface and a putrid odor. If it is not treated, then over time, mycosis will spread throughout the body and cause all sorts of complications.

Gapalonychia

The nail plates become soft, break and split. It occurs due to diseases of the endocrine system, metabolic disorders in the body, regular exposure to aggressive chemicals.

Platonychia

The surface of the nail is completely flat (see photo). May be congenital or acquired due to professional activity. Also, some chronic inflammatory processes can provoke this defect.

Prevention

The following list of simple rules will help you prevent many possible diseases of the toenails and hands.

  • You can't bite your nails.
  • File your nails with a glass or cardboard nail file.
  • Manicure should be done on steamed hands, so the risk of microtrauma and, as a result, infection of the wound is reduced.
  • If you use the services of a salon for nail care, make sure that the nail technician disinfects the tools before use.
  • Dry your hands and feet.
  • Your diet should include enough foods containing vitamins and minerals.

And most importantly, do not be lazy to contact doctors and undergo additional examinations from specialists. The earlier the disease is detected, the greater the chance of defeating it.

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Nail diagnostics

Nail diagnostics

In a healthy person, the nails are pink, shiny, smooth and completely correspond to the shape of a finger.

However, any changes in the structure, shape, color of nails are the first signals of disorders in the body. Probably, you yourself noticed that strange white spots appear on the nails, the nails change color, etc., but you could not give an explanation for these phenomena. In traditional medicine, there is also no exact answer yet, why such changes occur, how they are related to the work of the body.

The only explanation today is given by non-traditional oriental medicine.

The human body is permeated energy channels which cannot be seen even with sophisticated instruments. Energy comes to us from outside, is distributed throughout the body, filling every cell.

In oriental medicine, it is believed that a person has 12 main channels. They carry energy through the body. In addition to channels, there are 8 more vessels that act as reservoirs that regulate the distribution of energy in the human body. If these reservoirs are full and in good shape, then energy can circulate properly throughout the body. If stagnation occurs in the meridians and channels, then the distribution of energy is disturbed, which can lead to the development of the disease. What does the filling of the body with energy depend on?

The answer is simple and complex at the same time: the energy of our body depends on all factors in the aggregate. Consciousness, mood, weather, time of day, food - all this inevitably affects how harmoniously the channels and meridians of the body will work.

For example, when a person is angry, the flow of energy through the liver begins to move incorrectly, unevenly.

If a person experiences a sudden fright, then the flow of energy in the bladder channel is sharply weakened. In this case, the protective mechanism of the body begins to work, bringing the energy balance back to normal. If its resources are insufficient, then the contraction of the bladder leads to involuntary urination.

During the day, the nature of the movement of flows changes depending on the operation of the channels, since in different time they work differently: for example, in the channel of the heart, the flow of energy is strongest between 11 and 13 hours.

As you can see, all phenomena are easily explained.

What does nails have to do with this energy system?

The fact is that energy does not arise in the human body by itself. It has to be received from outside. So, it comes through special points that are on the fingertips. Each channel (that is, an organ or system) has its own "supplier" of energy. Thus, for example, the thumb is associated with the endocrine system (as well as with the eyes and spleen); index - with the digestive tract (large and small intestine); medium - with the immune system, heart; unnamed - with respiratory system, liver and lungs, and the little finger - with the excretory system (kidneys, bladder and genitals).

Therefore, changes in the movement of energy in the channel are immediately reflected on the nails. And when a person copes with the disease, they again become even and smooth.

The nail reflects ailments almost instantly. Some diseases of the nail can be seen 2-3 years before they appear - the onset of pain or discomfort that makes you see a doctor.

One of the authorities in the field of nail diagnostics today is considered to be the South Korean professor, the founder of Su Jok therapy (acupuncture) Pak Jae Woo. Let's try to diagnose your body, based on the relationship between the nails and internal organs and systems.

The connection between the nails of the fingers and toes, internal organs and endocrine glands according to Pak Jae-woo

The connection between organs and fingers and toes is as follows.

Arms

Legs

* Yin-sense organs provide taste, tactile and tendon-muscle sensitivity. The yang sense organs are the organs of sight, hearing, and smell.

We draw the first conclusions

Now we will carefully consider the general condition of the nails on each finger and draw the first conclusions.

Thumb Let's start with the thumb. It is closely related to the brain. Therefore, spots, thickenings, changes in the shape of the thumbnail hole may indicate a pathology of the cerebral vessels. This is especially noticeable in long-term smokers.

Forefinger The index finger controls the lungs and large intestine. The reduction or disappearance of the nail hole of this finger indicates serious violations in the work of the relevant organs. The appearance of white dots on the index finger is a signal of the accumulation of calcium in the lungs.

Middle finger The middle finger reflects the state of the vascular system and the small intestine. Therefore, a decrease in the hole on it is an indicator of the corresponding violations. White dots on the nail indicate poor absorption of calcium in the intestines. In addition, pathologies of the nail of the middle finger can be associated with inflammatory processes in the organs of hearing, vision, smell, as well as with some gynecological diseases.

ring finger The disappearance of the hole at the base of the nail of the ring finger indicates a malfunction in the endocrine and lymphatic systems, a lack of function of the thyroid gland, kidneys, bladder, and possibly some other endocrine glands.

Little finger

The little finger gives information about the most important organ - the heart, as well as the state of the female reproductive organs and the stomach. Nail disorders are associated here with hypertension, atherosclerosis, heart rhythm disturbances, gastritis, stomach ulcers, etc. A large lunula of the little finger may indicate a predisposition to tachycardia, and its absence may indicate heart neurosis.

Today, nail diagnostics according to the canons of Eastern practices is recognized even by traditional medicine as the most reliable and safe. Of course, in order to independently make a more accurate diagnosis, a number of additional characteristics should be taken into account.

We clarify the diagnosis

How to find out about violations in the body by the color of the nails A change in the color of your nails is the first signal that you need to worry about your health. The appearance on the nails of yellow or blue spots, black streaks or white lines instead of a normal pink tint indicates certain malfunctions of the body.

Colorless nails

Discoloration of the nails is usually observed when:

stress;

smoking;

General deterioration in health (for example, a cold);

allergies;

diabetes;

Use of poor quality varnish.

yellow nails

Yellow spots or complete yellowing of the nail is a consequence of smoking, and also indicates a violation of fat metabolism. A yellowish tint to the nails may indicate:

Respiratory tract diseases;

poor circulation;

liver disease;

fungal infection;

age-related changes;

Taking certain medications.

green nails A greenish tint is a signal of a possible infection in the nail plate and in the body as a whole, so you should immediately consult a doctor.

blue nail tint The blue tint of the nail plate indicates possible problems with the respiratory system, more precisely, with the lungs. If blue lines are drawn on the nails, then it is necessary to be examined for the presence of skin cancer.

Black streaks and red-brown spots on the nails

If you find small black streaks on your nails, then most likely this is due to a violation of the heart, so do not put off going to a cardiologist.

The appearance of red-brown spots on the nail plate indicates a lack of certain substances in the body:

folic acid;

Vitamin C.

White spots on nails and white lines

According to ancient legends, white spots on the nail plates are a sign of happiness and good luck. However, from the point of view of medicine, their appearance most likely indicates a lack of zinc and iron in the body. The presence of white marks on the nails can also signal the appearance of problems with organs such as:

The cardiovascular system;

Nervous system.

True, it should be noted that white spots can be just a sign of injury to the base of the nail. The nail holes become whitish if the skin is undernourished.

How to find out about problems in the body by the shape and texture of nails

The processes that take place in our body leave their mark on the texture of the nails. As a result of many years of research, Dr. G. Schinner on appearance nails managed to identify more than forty diseases. We present the most common of them.

If the ends of the nails naturally curl, that is, the likelihood of you having problems with the heart and respiratory tract. In this case, you should not postpone visiting a doctor, as only he will be able to make an accurate diagnosis.

Concave nails (spoon-shaped) indicate anemia caused by a lack of iron in the body. Concave nails also warn that alcohol is definitely contraindicated for you.

Nails in the form of hemispheres indicate a tendency to pulmonary diseases. By the way, this observation was made by Hippocrates, hence the name "Hippocratic nail".

If the shape of the nails resembles squares, then you most likely have a genetic predisposition to hormonal disorders.

Bulbous, bulbous nails indicate weakness of the heart and lungs. Quite often, this form of nails can be found in patients with tuberculosis.

Flat and thin nails is a sign of vitamin B12 deficiency.

Flattened and crushed nails warn that worms most likely appeared in the body.

Triangular shaped nails as a rule, characteristic of those suffering from diseases of the spine and spinal cord.

A close look at the texture of the nails should also lead you to a number of thoughts about the state of health.

"Hole nails" - nails, the surface of which seems to be dotted with notches - indicate a malfunction in the spleen.

Horizontal dents may remain after a diet that adversely affected the body.

Layers on the nail resembling salt deposits, indicate diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, an unbalanced diet.

Almond veins on nails warn of the danger of rheumatism.

Appearances bulges in the form of balls on the surface of the nail - a sign of a protracted viral disease.

The presence of grooves on the nail speaks of lime deposits on the walls of blood vessels. Pronounced vertical stripes serve as a signal of poor digestion or a predisposition to arthritis. Horizontal grooves are an indicator of stress or an infectious disease.

And here thickening of the nail plate, or hypertrophy, usually occurs as a result of internal disorders of the body (eg infections).

The reverse process is when nails suddenly become thinner and more flexible(atrophy of the nail plate), most likely indicates that you have a chronic disease.

Brittle, brittle nails they talk about a malfunction in the work of the ovaries, as well as a deficiency of vitamins B and D, iron and calcium.

This text is an introductory piece.

Our body is amazing! For example, the body can signal ailments with the help of nails. Chinese medicine has long recognized the close relationship between nails and liver health. The color of the nail plate also says a lot about the state of the blood.

Some diseases can be detected by carefully looking at your nails. Day.Az referring to "So Simple!" will tell you about 10 signs that may be a signal to see a doctor.

HOW TO IDENTIFY A DISEASE ON THE NAILS

Discolored nails

This indicates a nutritional deficiency. The nail may also turn yellow due to the constant use of varnishes. Brown nails indicate diseases of the thyroid gland. White nails indicate a lack of iron. The bluish-gray shade of the nail plate is a lack of oxygen, problems with the lungs or heart.

brittle nails

If the nails exfoliate and break easily, there may be problems with the thyroid gland. This also happens with lichen planus (accompanied by rashes and itching). Nails can become brittle with age with frequent use of varnish, due to the influence of detergents.

hardened nails

This happens with arthritis, lung diseases, diabetes. With eczema and psoriasis, the nails may be yellowish, slow growing, and thickened.

Spoon shaped nail

A concave nail means a lack of iron in the blood. You should eat more foods that increase hemoglobin levels.

Stains on nails

White spots on the nails are quite common. This is not a cause for concern. The reason may be an imbalance of nutrients in the body or even stress. As a rule, specks appear and eventually disappear. Eat food that contains a lot of vitamins.

Horizontal furrows

They can appear due to damage and trauma, due to the influence of extreme temperatures and as a result of chemotherapy.

Fingers of Hippocrates

If you notice that the nails increase and become soft, this may indicate a symptom of drumsticks. Bulb-shaped thickening of the phalanges of the fingers occurs in chronic diseases of the liver, heart, lungs.

white lines on nails

Most often found on the index, middle and thumb. They signal a lack of protein, which can be caused by malnutrition, liver problems, stress.

dark vertical stripes

May be a sign of subungual melanoma, but it usually only affects one nail. In this case, the color of the nail also changes.

Red or brown streaks under the nails

Hemorrhages under nail plates occur due to damage to blood vessels. But sometimes such stripes can be caused by arthritis or psoriasis.

Pay attention to your nails: they may be trying to warn you about the disease! Of course, a change in the appearance of nails depends on many factors, therefore, only by their condition it is impossible to accurately diagnose any ailment.

Nail plates are an important indicator of overall health. To keep your nails healthy and looking great, add more carrots, seafood, nuts, oily fish to your menu.