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Whether you invest in nail treatments or simply try to keep them clean, pay attention to your fingernails for more than just aesthetic reasons. Changes in nail appearance or color can indicate underlying health conditions. If you notice any of the following issues, make an appointment for an exam at a primary care clinic

What Do Your Nails Say About Your Health?

Nail Pitting

The surface of your nails, or nail plates, should be generally smooth. However, some people experience a condition called pitting — multiple small depressions on the nail. Pitting is often associated with psoriasis. In more serious cases, it may be related to connective tissue disorders or alopecia.

White Nails

Your nail beds should generally be a pink color; change in shade may be a cause for concern. If they appear white, it could be connected to liver issues like hepatitis. A physician at your primary care clinic will ask about other systems and run tests to look for all possible causes of white nails.

Yellow Nailsprimary care clinic

Nails often turn yellow because of a fungal infection, which could be present on all or a few digits. Since nail plates can become brittle if left untreated, see a physician for antifungal medication. In some patients, yellow nails may also be connected to diabetes, psoriasis, thyroid disease, or lung disease.

Beau’s Lines

If you notice an indent running horizontally across your nails, it could be caused by a temporary disruption in nail plate growth. There are many potential causes, from a harsh manicure to poor circulation, so visit a primary care clinic for testing. Some patients with this symptom could have a zinc deficiency. Other illnesses associated with Beau’s lines are high fevers, diabetes, and peripheral vascular disease.

Bluish Nails

When your body is receiving the right amount of oxygen, the fingernails generally stay a pink color. However, blue-tinted nails could indicate a lack of oxygen. Your physician will likely check your heart and lungs, as this can be a symptom of complications to these organs.

 

Whether you’re concerned about the color of your nails or your child’s persistent cough, the caring team at Santiam Hospital will provide treatment you can trust. Located in Oregon’s Mid-Willamette Valley, this facility offers primary care clinics, a surgery center, birthing center, and a women’s health clinic. Expect shorter wait times for their emergency room services and receive personalized diagnostics to get you on the road to recovery. To learn more about their compassionate healthcare services, visit them online. Call (503) 749-4734 today to make an appointment.

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