ITV’s Dr Amir Khan has warned that certain changes to your nails could be a sign of serious health issues including cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. Here’s what to look out for, and when to contact your GP
A change to your nail could be a warning sign of several health issues, including fluid on the lung and cancer.
Whilst many of us pay little attention to our nails, their appearance can often provide ‘clues’ to our health. Dr Amir Khan, who you may recognise from his regular appearance on ITV’s Lorraine, says our nails should feel ‘smooth’ and have a ‘consistent colour all the way through’.
Of course, it is perfectly normal to have the odd spot of colour if, for example, you end up hurting your nail in an injury. As we age, it is also normal to develop ‘vertical ridges’ along the nails. But, there are certain things to look out for.
In a recent Instagram post, the doctor explains that whilst changes to our nails alone can’t dictate a diagnosis in itself, it may help a clinician get to the root of your problem if you’re presenting other symptoms too. He warned his followers to watch out for yellow nail syndrome.
“Yellow nail syndrome is when the nails turn yellow, get thicker and don’t grow as fast,” the expert said. “It can be a sign of cancer, fluid on the lungs, bronchitis and rheumatoid arthritis… It’s also worth noting that nails can be affected by chemotherapy.”
According to WebMD, yellow nail syndrome is a ‘rare’ disease, typically seen in those over the age of 50, caused by the buildup of lymph under the nails. It is commonly seen in people with lung cancer, breast cancer and lymphoma.
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The NHS explains most nail problems are not ‘usually caused by anything serious’ and advises Brits to clean their nails with a soft brush and regularly apply hand cream to the nails and fingertips. You should also cut any injured or loose nails back to where they are still attached to prevent them from catching on any objects.
However, the medical body urges anyone whose nail has changed shape, colour, or fallen off – without any known reason – to contact their GP. You should also seek medical attention if the skin around your nails has become ‘sore, red, swollen and warm’ as this can be a sign of an infection or an ingrown toenail.
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Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
