The human body is an incredible system that can signal health issues long before we visit a doctor. Dr. Bhavini Shah, a doctor at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, has warned the British public about one specific part of the body to monitor closely, as it can help prevent certain illnesses.

She mentioned that by paying attention to this particular area, you can identify up to seven conditions that may indicate it’s time to book an appointment with your GP.

Can you guess which part of your body it is?

It is, of course, your fingernails.

According to WalesOnline, she explained: “It’s normal for nails to change over time. For example, nails often become more brittle as you age. Changes in nail texture are also common during pregnancy, although this should return to normal within six months of having a baby.

“Similarly, if you injure your nail, it’s not unusual for it to become loose, change colour, and even fall off completely. If this does happen, generally fingernails grow back within six months, although toenails can take up to 18 months.

“Some common and potentially serious diseases can present themselves through the appearance of your nails. You should see your GP if you notice a change in your nails that cannot be explained by something such as an injury.

“You should also consult a medical professional if the skin around your nail has become sore, red, swollen, and sore because this can indicate an infection.”

What might be the root cause of these particular nail issues? Let’s explore:

Spoon-shaped nails

This could indicate that you have iron deficiency anaemia.

The doctor explained: “Spoon-shaped nails that curve inward can be a sign of iron-deficiency anaemia. This condition often occurs after pregnancy and is when the iron level in your blood is too low. Other symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, pale skin, and headaches.”

Loose nails

This might be attributed to hyperthyroidism.

“Changes to your nails can also be a symptom of hyperthyroidism. This is where your thyroid gland overproduces certain hormones. Loose nails are a common symptom of hyperthyroidism.”

Brittle nails

You might be experiencing hypothyroidism.

“Brittle nails are a common sign of having an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) – where your thyroid gland under-produces hormones. It’s important an underactive thyroid is diagnosed as quickly as possible. This is usually done via a blood test.”

Red/ purple lines or clubbing

Heart disease could be the underlying cause.

“Generally, red or purple lines under your nails are due to an injury. But if you notice these and don’t recall injuring your nail, you might want to book a doctor’s appointment because these can be a symptom of heart disease.”

“Clubbing can also be a suggestion of heart disease, a major cause of death worldwide. This is where the nail curves over rounded fingertips or the ends of the toes, resulting in a bulbous appearance.”

White nails

If you notice ghostly nails, it’s important to get checked for liver disease.

“Named after the doctor who discovered the symptom, Terry’s nails is a nail condition where more than two-thirds of the nail bed turns white, with a red or pink strip remaining at the tip of the nail.”

“Terry’s nails are a classic indicator of liver disease. Other signs of the disease include fatigue, yellowing of the skin, and a loss of appetite.”

Small dents

Skin problems…

“Small dents or pits on the surface of the nails are common in people with skin disorders such as psoriasis, eczema, and alopecia areata – a specific type of hair loss.

“You’d expect other visible symptoms. For instance, psoriasis often leads to dry, scaly skin patches, while eczema results in dry, itchy, cracked, and sore skin. Alopecia areata is characterized by patchy hair loss.”

Horizontal ridges lines

Bad health…

“Deep lines or grooves across your fingernails are referred to as Beau’s lines. This temporary interruption in nail growth is typically triggered by a serious illness or infection. Some individuals developed Beau’s lines after experiencing COVID-19, for instance.

“If you notice Beau’s lines and are worried, I’d suggest scheduling an appointment with your GP to discuss your overall health.”