5 Nail Changes That May Offer Clues About Your Health, According To Dr Kunal Sood

Fingernails are often viewed primarily as a part of personal grooming, but changes in their appearance can sometimes offer clues about a person's health, according to physician Dr Kunal Sood. The Maryland-based doctor, who specialises in anesthesiology and interventional pain medicine, recently shared five observations about nails in an Instagram post, highlighting why paying attention to their natural appearance can be useful. For many people, nail care is largely cosmetic, with manicures and pedicures commonly used to maintain their shape and appearance.

However, nails can also undergo changes in colour, texture, thickness or shape that may be associated with underlying health conditions. While such changes do not necessarily indicate a specific illness, noticeable or persistent abnormalities can be worth discussing with a healthcare professional. One of the signs that can be observed in nails is changes in colour. Healthy nails generally have a relatively consistent appearance, while unusual discolouration can sometimes be associated with nutritional deficiencies, infections or other health issues.

Changes can also occur because of external factors, including nail products, trauma or staining. Therefore, nail colour alone should not be treated as a diagnostic tool, particularly without considering a person's broader symptoms and medical history. Another feature to watch is the texture and surface of the nails. Ridges, grooves, pits or other changes in the nail surface can develop for a variety of reasons. Some may be harmless and related to normal nail growth or previous injury, while others can occur alongside certain skin or systemic conditions.

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Sudden or significant changes that persist over time may warrant medical attention rather than being dismissed as a cosmetic issue. The shape and thickness of the nails can also change in response to different factors. Nails that become unusually thick, brittle or distorted may sometimes be linked to fungal infections, repeated trauma or other conditions. Changes in the way the nail grows can also provide useful information when assessed alongside other physical symptoms.

However, there is considerable variation in normal nail appearance, meaning that an unusual-looking nail does not automatically point to a serious health problem. Dr Sood's observations underscore the broader point that nails can sometimes provide visible clues about what is happening in the body. At the same time, nail changes should be interpreted carefully. Factors such as ageing, injuries, frequent exposure to water or chemicals, nail cosmetics and everyday wear can all affect the appearance of fingernails and toenails. A change noticed after an injury or a new nail-care routine may have a straightforward explanation.

For people who notice persistent changes in their nails, especially when they occur alongside other symptoms, consulting a qualified healthcare professional is advisable. A doctor can examine the nails and consider other relevant symptoms, medical history and, when necessary, further tests before determining the cause. Nail appearance can therefore be one small part of assessing health, but it should not be used on its own to diagnose a medical condition.

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