An NHS doctor has revealed a surprising early warning sign that could be visible in your toes and fingernails, indicating potential serious health problems that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The Tell-Tale Sign You Should Never Ignore
According to Dr. Abbas Kanani, superintendent pharmacist at Chemist Click, changes in the shape and texture of your nails could be your body's way of signalling underlying health issues. The medical phenomenon, known as clubbing, involves specific alterations to your fingers and toes that warrant immediate medical attention.
What Exactly Is Nail Clubbing?
Nail clubbing isn't just a cosmetic change - it's a significant medical indicator characterized by:
- Softening of the nail beds
- Increased curvature of the nails
- Enlargement of the fingertips
- Warmth and redness in the affected areas
"The nails become more curved than usual and the skin next to the nail may become shiny," explains Dr. Kanani. "The nail beds soften, and the nails may seem to 'float' instead of being firmly attached."
Serious Health Conditions Linked to Nail Changes
While nail clubbing can sometimes be hereditary and harmless, when it develops later in life, it often points to more serious underlying conditions including:
- Lung cancer and other respiratory diseases
- Heart conditions, particularly those affecting oxygen levels in blood
- Inflammatory bowel disease like Crohn's disease
- Liver cirrhosis and other liver conditions
- Thyroid issues affecting metabolism
When Should You Seek Medical Advice?
Dr. Kanani emphasizes the importance of not panicking but being proactive: "If you notice any changes in the shape of your nails or fingertips, it's worth speaking to your GP, especially if it's developed quickly."
The Schamroth window test - a simple method where you place the nails of your opposite fingers together - can help identify clubbing. Normally, you should see a small diamond-shaped space between the nail beds. If this space is missing, it could indicate clubbing.
Other Nail Changes Worth Monitoring
Beyond clubbing, other nail abnormalities can also signal health issues:
- White spots: Usually harmless, often caused by minor injuries
- Vertical ridges: Typically a normal sign of ageing
- Spoon-shaped nails: Could indicate iron deficiency
- Beau's lines: Deep grooves that might appear after serious illness
Regularly checking your nails as part of your general health monitoring could provide early warning signs that prompt earlier diagnosis and treatment of potentially serious conditions.
