Healthy, happy nails! Check out the healthy cuticles

Healthy nails are not . . .

Purple nails – When nails turn purple or blue, says Dr. Graf, it could be a symptom of Raynaud’s. The syndrome causes blood vessels in the fingers and toes to spasm, and while it’s usually just a benign inconvenience, Raynaud’s can also be an early symptom of more serious disorders.  This can also be a sign of poor circulation.

Dark Spots – Those small, vertical plum lines you see running along your nails? They’re called splinter hemorrhages, and sometimes they can be chalked up to a run-of-the-mill injury. However, says Dr. Graf, it’s important to pay attention. “If you see dark, longitudinal lines, those are definitely things to get checked. They could be birthmarks, but if they go below the nail plate, they need to be evaluated for melanoma.” These tiny blood clots are also loosely associated with a host of other health issues, from lupus to heart inflammation, so schedule an appointment to rule out anything serious.

If a dark stripe or band suddenly appears at the cuticle or on in the nail plate, get it checked out.

If any of these apply to you, please see a licensed manicurist or podiatrist for advice. 

There are some conditions that may be helped by visiting your pedicurist on a  regular basis, not just when you have to or some special occasion.

Think About It:  Does your outer appearance match who you are on the inside?   You are the only one that can really see you.