Nail Infection: How Nail Diseases and Abnormalities Signal Health Issues

Nails do more than just protect the fingertips, as they can also be an indicator of your overall health. Their colour, texture, and shape often change in response to other conditions, yet these subtle differences are sometimes overlooked as minor cosmetic concerns. That said, persistent discolouration, ridges, brittleness, or unusual growth patterns may indicate underlying issues such as nutritional deficiencies, infections, or even systemic diseases like anaemia or thyroid disorders. Understanding these changes can help in identifying potential health concerns early. This blog will explore common nail abnormalities, their possible causes, and essential tips for maintaining healthy nails.

Characteristics of Healthy Nails

Healthy nails have a consistent appearance and texture, reflecting good overall health. Some key signs of healthy nails include:

• Smooth Surface – Free from pits, grooves, or deep ridges. Minor vertical ridges may appear with age but should not be pronounced.
• Even Colour – A uniform pinkish hue without spots, streaks, or significant discolouration.
• Firm and Strong – Not overly brittle, soft, or peeling. Healthy nails should be flexible yet resilient.
• Well-Attached Cuticles – The cuticles should be intact, protecting the nail bed from infections.
• Consistent Growth – Nails grow at a steady pace without sudden changes in thickness or shape.

Any significant deviation from these characteristics could indicate an underlying issue, making it important to monitor nail health regularly.

Common Nail Abnormalities and Their Causes

Discolouration

Healthy nails have a pinkish hue, but changes in colour can indicate different health conditions.

• Yellow Nails – Often caused by fungal infections, excessive nail polish use, or smoking. In some cases, yellowing may be linked to respiratory diseases, diabetes, or thyroid disorders.
• Blue or Purple Nails – May indicate poor oxygen circulation due to conditions such as chronic lung disease, Raynaud’s phenomenon, or heart disease.
• White Spots (Leukonychia) – Usually result from minor trauma to the nail but can also be associated with zinc or calcium deficiencies.
• Dark Streaks or Black Lines – Could be caused by injury, but persistent dark streaks may be a sign of melanoma, a type of skin cancer, requiring urgent medical attention.

Brittle, Peeling, or Splitting Nails

Nails that break, peel, or split easily may be due to frequent exposure to water or harsh chemicals. Excessive hand washing, cleaning agents, and nail polish removers can weaken the nail structure over time. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly a lack of biotin, iron, or essential fatty acids, can also contribute to fragility. Thyroid disorders play a role as well, with hypothyroidism causing dry, brittle nails, while hyperthyroidism may lead to soft, thinning nails. In some cases, persistent brittleness may result from an underlying fungal infection affecting the nail bed.

Ridges and Grooves

Ridges or indentations on the nail surface may be harmless, but some types indicate underlying health problems:

• Vertical Ridges – Common with ageing and usually not a concern.
• Horizontal Ridges (Beau’s Lines) – Can appear due to severe illness, high fever, chemotherapy, or malnutrition, as they reflect temporary interruptions in nail growth.

Pitted Nails

Small dents or depressions in the nail surface are often linked to autoimmune or inflammatory conditions. Psoriasis, which affects both the skin and nails, is a common cause of pitting, along with thickening and discolouration. Other conditions such as eczema and alopecia areata may also lead to similar nail changes.

Clubbing

A condition where the nails curve downward and the fingertips appear swollen may suggest an underlying health issue. Chronic lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, or cystic fibrosis, are common causes. Heart conditions, including congenital heart defects and heart failure, can also lead to clubbing. In some cases, digestive disorders like Crohn’s disease or liver cirrhosis may contribute to this abnormality.

Spoon-Shaped Nails (Koilonychia)

Nails that become thin and concave, taking on a spoon-like shape, are often associated with iron deficiency anaemia. This condition can cause fatigue and pale skin in addition to nail changes. Liver disorders such as hemochromatosis, a condition where the body absorbs too much iron, may also lead to spoon-shaped nails.

Thickened or Deformed Nails

Nail thickening or distortion can be linked to infections or chronic health conditions. Fungal infections are a common cause, often leading to discolouration, roughness, and crumbling edges. Psoriasis can also affect the nails, resulting in thickening, rough texture, and lifting from the nail bed. Circulatory disorders, such as peripheral artery disease, may contribute to changes in nail thickness due to reduced blood flow to the extremities.

Types of Nail Infections

Fungal Nail Infections (Onychomycosis)

Fungal infections are among the most common nail conditions, often affecting toenails more than fingernails. They usually begin with slight discolouration, thickening, or brittleness and can progress to cause crumbling, distorted nails. The infection thrives in warm, moist environments, making individuals who frequently wear tight shoes or have sweaty feet more susceptible. People with diabetes, weakened immune systems, or poor circulation are at a higher risk of developing persistent fungal nail infections.

Bacterial Nail Infections (Paronychia)

Bacterial infections typically develop around the edges of the nail, leading to redness, swelling, pain, and pus formation. These infections often occur after minor injuries, such as nail biting, aggressive manicures, or prolonged exposure to water. Acute bacterial infections can develop suddenly, while chronic infections, often seen in people with frequent hand exposure to moisture, can persist over time. In some cases, the infection can spread to deeper tissues, requiring medical intervention.

Viral Nail Infections

Certain viral infections, such as those caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), can lead to warts around or under the nails. These growths may cause discomfort, deformity, or difficulty in trimming the nails. Nail warts are often stubborn and may require treatments like cryotherapy, laser therapy, or topical medications.

Yeast Infections of the Nails

Yeast infections, primarily caused by Candida species, affect both the nail and surrounding skin. These infections are more common in individuals who have frequent hand exposure to water, diabetes, or weakened immune function. They can lead to thickened, discoloured, and brittle nails, often accompanied by inflammation and pain in the surrounding nail folds.

Tips to Keep Your Nails Healthy

Maintaining healthy nails involves proper care, good hygiene, and a balanced diet. Here are some essential tips:

• Keep nails clean and dry – Moisture trapped under the nails can lead to bacterial and fungal infections. Dry hands and feet thoroughly after washing and wear breathable footwear to reduce the risk.
• Trim nails regularly – Cutting nails straight across and slightly rounding the edges helps prevent breakage and ingrown nails. Use clean, sharp clippers and avoid cutting too close to the skin.
• Moisturise nails and cuticles – Applying hand cream or cuticle oil prevents dryness and brittleness, especially after frequent handwashing or exposure to harsh chemicals.
• Eat a nutrient-rich diet – Biotin, iron, zinc, and protein are essential for nail strength and growth. Foods like eggs, nuts, leafy greens, and lean meats help keep nails strong.
• Avoid nail biting and using nails as tools – Biting nails can introduce bacteria, leading to infections, while using nails to open packages or scrape surfaces increases the risk of breakage.
• Protect nails from excessive water and harsh chemicals – Wearing gloves while washing dishes or cleaning prevents nails from becoming weak and brittle. Using mild, non-drying soaps can also help.
• Check nails for changes – Regularly inspect nails for discolouration, ridges, or unusual shapes. Persistent abnormalities may indicate underlying health conditions and should be evaluated by a doctor.

Following these simple steps can help maintain strong, healthy nails and prevent common nail-related issues.

Consult Today

Persistent nail abnormalities should not be overlooked. Identifying the cause—whether it’s a fungal infection, a nutritional deficiency, or a circulation issue—can help in finding the right solution. At Max Hospital, specialists provide careful evaluation and guidance to address these concerns. If you have noticed unusual changes in your nails, scheduling a consultation at Max Hospital can be the first step toward proper treatment and care. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can nail biting cause long-term damage?

Frequent nail biting can weaken the nails, leading to persistent brittleness, irregular growth, and an increased risk of infections. Repeated biting damages the nail bed, which can cause nails to grow abnormally. In severe cases, chronic nail biting can lead to permanent deformities or increase susceptibility to fungal and bacterial infections due to open wounds around the nails.

Why do some people have naturally faster-growing nails than others?

Nail growth varies due to factors such as genetics, age, overall health, and lifestyle. Metabolism plays a role, with faster-growing nails often seen in younger individuals or those with higher circulation levels. The rate of nail growth can also be influenced by diet, hormonal changes, and certain medical conditions. Fingernails typically grow faster than toenails, and the dominant hand's nails may grow quicker due to increased blood flow from regular use.

Do seasonal changes affect nail health?

Yes, seasonal changes can impact nail health. Cold weather can make nails dry and brittle due to reduced moisture, while warmer temperatures may lead to increased nail growth. Changes in humidity, temperature, and exposure to harsh conditions, such as indoor heating or prolonged water exposure, can also affect nail strength and texture. Keeping nails moisturised and protecting them from extreme conditions helps maintain their health year-round.

Are there any genetic conditions that affect nail growth and appearance?

Several genetic conditions can impact nail health. Nail-patella syndrome, for example, can cause underdeveloped or missing nails, while pachyonychia congenita leads to thickened, abnormally shaped nails. Other conditions, such as Darier’s disease and ectodermal dysplasia, can also affect nail growth, texture, and strength. Inherited traits can determine nail thickness, curvature, and susceptibility to certain abnormalities.

What causes nails to develop a pitted or dented surface?

Nail pitting, which appears as small dents or depressions on the nail surface, is commonly associated with conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and alopecia areata. These conditions cause disruptions in nail formation due to inflammation affecting the nail matrix. In some cases, pitting may also be linked to autoimmune disorders or deficiencies affecting nail growth.

Can underlying heart or lung conditions affect the nails?

Yes, certain heart and lung conditions can cause noticeable changes in the nails. Clubbing, where the nails become thickened and curve around the fingertips, is often linked to chronic respiratory diseases, congenital heart conditions, or conditions that reduce oxygen levels in the blood. Pale or bluish nails may also indicate circulation or oxygenation issues. These changes can be early signs of systemic health concerns and should be evaluated by a doctor.

Can nail changes be a sign of vitamin or mineral deficiencies?

Yes, deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals can lead to noticeable nail abnormalities. Iron deficiency is often linked to brittle or spoon-shaped nails, while a lack of biotin can cause thinning and breakage. Zinc and vitamin B12 deficiencies may result in discolouration or ridges. Ensuring a well-balanced diet with sufficient nutrients supports strong, healthy nails and helps prevent these changes.