Recipe and Health Articles

Nail abnormalities are the problems which start with changing of colour, shape, texture, or thickness of the fingernails or toenails. Low levels of zinc and iron as well as thyroid problems can cause brittle nails.

Symptoms:

1. Split nail
2. Thick and deformed nail
3. Yellow or white patches of color on the nail
4. Yellow horizontal streaks in the nail


Causes:

a) Nail injury
b) Nail fungal infection
c) Anxiety - a common cause of nail biting.
d) Lung disorders
e) Discolouration
f) Heart disorder
g) Congenital heart disease
h) Blood cell disorder
f) Liver disease can damage nails
i) Advancing age.


Self-help:

1.  Keep the nails short and avoid nail polish.
2.  Avoid harsh chemicals such as strong soaps and detergents.
3.  Don't clean under your nails too frequently or too aggressively.
4.  Resist the urge to bite or tear off hangnails - use nail clippers.
5.  Don't bite your nails.
6.  If you do get your hands wet, remember to rinse them well and dry them carefully after the work is done.
7.  Remove artificial nails carefully and according to the manufacturer's instructions.
8.  Smoking is injurious to nails.
9.  Moisturise the hands frequently, particularly after washing them.
10. Remember to rub the moisturiser over your nails and cuticles too.
11. Make sure your shoes are well-fitting and have plenty of room for air movement.