Your fingernails may be showing subtle signs of hypothyroidism. This occurs when the thyroid gland produces less than adequate thyroid hormone levels.
The Cleveland Clinic warns that untreated hypothyroidism can lead to dangerously low levels of this vital hormone. This condition can cause anemia, confusion, and even a coma. It’s important to recognize these warning signs before the situation gets out of control. Experts say that even though hypothyroidism has some common symptoms, there’s a subtler warning sign that you should be aware of.
The Signs of Hypothyroidism
According to Viatris, a pharmaceutical company, hypothyroidism can cause fingernails to become brittle and slow-growing. But it doesn’t end there. An underactive thyroid can affect different parts of the body.
The thyroid gland controls sweat levels. As the gland gets less active, your hair and nails may start to become dry as the body produces less moisture. This is another subtle symptom you should look out for.
Aside from brittle nails, an underactive thyroid can also result in visible ridges on the inside of your nails, making them appear curved and softer.
Hypothyroidism sometimes causes other symptoms that are often overlooked or mistaken for other conditions like aging. They are usually considered minor inconveniences, and because they appear gradually, they may go by unnoticed.
Speak to Your Doctor
If you suspect hypothyroidism, it’s important to talk to your doctor about getting screened for the condition. Some of the common symptoms include fatigue, depression, and weight gain. Individuals with this condition also experience various ailments such as sleep apnea and infertility.
