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Healthy Choices

7 Fingernail Signs You Might Have a Serious Illness

This article is for general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Talk to a qualified health provider about your situation.

nails
Photo by kris4to from Shutterstock

#5 Nails clubbing

It is possible for the bending to start so gradually that few people even notice it. Fingertips frequently bulge as the fingernails start to curve downward, and the nails begin to feel spongy to the touch.

From a distance or up close, clubbed nails look like an upside-down spoon. These changes might come naturally, or bring along other symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath. The finger swelling that gives the impression of clubbing is thought to be caused by dilated blood vessels.

Visit a dermatologist as soon as you discover that your fingernails are beginning to bend. The harmless trait of having curved nails can run in the family. Bent nails can also indicate that you suffer from a liver, heart, or lung problem.

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