
15 Aug WHAT YOUR FINGERNAILS REVEAL ABOUT YOUR HEALTH
The colour of our fingernails can tell us a lot about our overall health.
Here are some examples of common nail anomalies. Not everyone with these symptoms may have diseases but if in doubt consult your dermatologist. Some of these pictures are shocking so be aware of changes so you can treat them in time.
- Dark Lines Beneath the Nail
This is a dangerous one. It must be immediately seen by a doctor. It is most often attributed to melanoma, the most dangerous type of skin cancer.
- Chewed, Gnawed Nails
Sometimes biting your nails IS only a habit! But for many nail biters it is a sign of extreme anxiety. Nail biting and picking has been linked to OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder ). If the habit is an extreme case consult a doctor.
- White Nails
This may be a sign of anemia and cardiovascular disease.
- Nail Fungus
More than 2 million people suffer from nail fungus . Fungus moves in under the nail and is protected by the nail so it grows easily . It is extremely hard to get to and treat.
To avoid nail fungus:
- Keep your feet as clean and dry as possible
- Wear shoes that breathe , such as canvas or leather
- Wear “water shoes” when in public areas such as locker rooms, swimming pools and public showers
- Use clean tools to clip and file nails
How to treat nail fungus:
If you are at an early stage of an infection you can use at home treatments like daily soaking in white vinegar or diluted bleach.
We love and recommend a product called Vite 20. It is a combination of natural ingredients like tea tree oil and lavender oil as well as strong medical ingredients like undecylenic acid, clotrimazole and urea. It is a topical treatment that must be applied twice a day on and under nail bed for best results. If used as directed you will see significant improvement and be on your way to achieving prettier and healthier hands and feet.
Often when fungal infections are too severe, the doctor will prescribe oral 12 week antibiotics like
Lamisil. In the most severe cases this is the only solution .
These are only a few examples of unhealthy nails. If you are in doubt about the appearance of your nails, consulting a dermatologist is your best bet.
To healthy, happy nails !!!
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