From the mysterious white flecks that sometimes appear on nails to unusual ridging or changes in thickness, what do these features really mean?

Summary

Fingernails can reveal conditions like lung disease, anemia, and vitamin deficiencies.

Clubbing, where nails curve and fingertips swell, may indicate lung cancer or heart disease. White spots (leukonychia) are usually from trauma but can suggest deficiencies or heavy metal poisoning.

Blue nails may signal oxygen deprivation, and dark streaks could indicate melanoma. Fungal infections cause yellowing, while spoon-shaped nails can indicate anemia.

Horizontal ridges (Beau’s lines) may reflect protein deficiency or diabetes. Persistent nail changes should be evaluated by a doctor.