Nailing Nail Maladies

Clean finger and toe nails are part of good hygiene. Nice looking nails are great accessories to any outfit. Manicures and pedicures are fun ways to express moods or personality. But more than the aesthetic value, nails can reveal a lot about the body's internal health. Healthy nails are often a sign of good health, while bad nails are often a tip off to more serious problems. The nails also protect fingertips and tips of toes from injuries. Thus, they should be given proper attention and care.

Common nail problems include brittle nails which can be a sign of iron deficiency or circulation problems; discoloration which results from cigarette smoking, using hair dyes and even excessive application of nail polish remover; fungal infections which are characterized by greenish or yellowish coloration; and ingrown which more commonly occur on the big toenail. Ingrowns are usually caused by improper nail trimming and ill-fitting shoes.

Nails should be well taken care of by washing hands with mild soap and using a soft nailbrush. Apply some hand cream or lotion to moisturize the tips of the fingers and toes and condition the cuticles. Trim nails straight across, cutting off snaggy or spiky bits. Don't pick at your nails or tear them at the corners. Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals to keep the nails healthy. Stop from smoking and never wear tight-fitting shoes again. In case of an ingrown, consult your doctor to prevent infection.