Identifying Fingernail Problems

Healthy fingernails appear smooth, with white tips, pinkish nail beds and have consistent texture and coloring. Some changes in fingernail appearance can be harmless – such as vertical ridges that may develop due to age. Similarly, spots due to fingernail injury are not a cause for  alarm, and should typically grow out with the nail.

However, certain other fingernail abnormalities, such as discoloration and nail separation can be the result of more serious medical conditions. Viral warts (periungual warts), infections (onychomycosis), and even certain medications, can also change the appearance of your fingernails.

Changes to your fingernails can be difficult to interpret, and the appearance of  fingernails’ alone isn’t enough to diagnose a specific illness. However, an experienced fingernail and hand doctor can assess your fingernail changes, along with your other symptoms, to make the proper diagnosis and implement the best treatments.

If you are suffering from changes in your fingernails’ color, texture or appearance, take a look at the images below of some for a general idea of what may be going on. Then call our Clinton Township or Bloomfield Hills office for a consultation with experienced hand doctor, Dr. Rehman.