What your nails are trying to tell you about your overall health

Your nails might seem like a small and rather insignificant detail in your overall appearance, but they can reveal more than you think – especially when it comes to your health.

Although nail changes are usually not cause for serious concern, subtle colour changes to unexpected ridges or texture can sometimes offer clues about what is going on beneath the surface.

Paying closer attention to their natural state can help spot early signs of nutritional deficiencies, stress or underlying health issues.

We got in touch with Dr Miriam Mikicki, GP and functional medicine practitioner at Health.Miro, who has shared some valuable insights about what your nails might be trying to tell you, and when you might need to flag the issue with a doctor.

Pale nails

One of the things to look out for when thinking about your nail health is changes to the colour of your nails.

If your nails are consistently pale or white, it’s worth mentioning to your GP, as it could be indicative of a underlying health condition such as an iron deficiency.

“Pale nails may be a sign of anaemia, iron deficiency or other conditions such as heart failure, liver disease or malnutrition,” highlights Mikicki. “If your nails consistently appear pale or white and you also feel tired, dizzy or short of breath, it’s advisable to speak to your GP.

“They may recommend a blood test to check for anaemia or assess liver and kidney function. Changes that affect multiple nails or are accompanied by other symptoms should always be evaluated to rule out underlying systemic health issues.”

White nails with dark edges

Blood tests might be needed to check for serious issues like kidney failure if you have multiple nails with dark edges, which are accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue or swelling.

“Nails that are mostly white with darker edges, sometimes called ‘Terry’s nails’, can be a sign of serious health conditions such as liver disease, kidney failure, diabetes or even congestive heart failure,” says Mikicki. “This occurs when there is a reduction in blood flow to the nail bed. If you notice this change across several nails, particularly alongside fatigue, swelling, or other systemic symptoms, you should consult a doctor promptly.

“Blood tests and clinical assessment can help determine whether further investigations are necessary.”

Yellow nails

Fungal infections are a frequent cause of yellowing, thickening, and even crumbling of nails.

“Yellow nails are often caused by fungal infections, especially if they are thickened and crumbly,” says Mikicki. “However, persistent yellowing may also indicate more serious issues such as chronic respiratory conditions, lymphoedema or even diabetes.

“If you notice your nails turning yellow and the change doesn’t resolve with basic hygiene or anti-fungal treatments, or if you have other symptoms like swelling or breathing difficulties, see your GP. They can examine your nails, rule out infection and consider systemic causes if appropriate.”

Bluish nails

Blue or purple nail beds or nails are a common sign of cyanosis.

“Bluish nails, also known as cyanosis, may suggest a lack of oxygen in the blood,” says Mikicki. “This can be a sign of circulatory or respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, or even congenital heart defects.

“If this is a persistent or sudden change, especially if accompanied by breathlessness, chest pain, or fatigue, this requires urgent medical evaluation. In some cases, it may indicate a medical emergency. Even if symptoms are mild, it’s best to consult a GP for further assessment and, if needed, oxygen saturation testing or referral to a specialist.”

Cracked or split nails

Brittle nails are pretty common, but don’t dismiss them if they are split vertically.

“Cracked or split nails are often due to environmental damage (e.g., frequent handwashing or exposure to chemicals) or nutritional deficiencies, particularly low iron, biotin or zinc,” says Mikicki. “However, if the nails split vertically and consistently across multiple fingers, or if there are accompanying symptoms like fatigue, hair thinning, or skin changes, you should consult your GP.

“They may recommend dietary advice, blood tests, or further investigation to check for conditions such as hypothyroidism, anaemia or other metabolic issues.”