A question about the curved pale pink part of our finger/toe nails?

Question

I have noticed this on my fingernails in the last few weeks:

The pale curve at the very base of my nails has all but disappears except for on my thumb nails. ( If you don't know what i''m talking about, it is the very pale pink curve at the bottom of the nail, and it looks like the shape of a sun rising over the ocean.

What's going on? I am a vegetarian perhaps there is something wrong in my diet? I also havn't been getting much sleep for a long time could this be why? I'm worried it's a sign of something much worse.

thanks for your help.

Answer 1

Mine are very small, except for my thumbs. I've heard that its a sign of low iron, but my blood levels come back normal. They've been small for several years now, and I don't really worry about it now. If you're worried, ask your doctor for a blood test. They can test for all sorts of deficiencies

Answer 2

It's ok. I only have them on my thumbs too, and I'm fine.

By the way, I have heard a rumor that excessive self-pleasuring (you know what I mean) can cause this. I asked this in the health forum and they said it was pure BS, so now I don't know.

Answer 3

its the nail bed end that contains small capillaries that nourish the nails and finger tips . when pressed on the color goes to white and returns to pink this is called capillary refill we use this as an indicator of hydration, as for your sleeping you might be lacking an element in your diet , folate and niacin are impoprtant as well as iron . if the problem persists see your doctor and get your blood tested for anemia and so forth.good luck

Answer 4

It could be worth asking your doctor for a blood test to check if your nutrient levels are within normal range. Enjoy a balanced diet with plenty of variety. Foods such as fruit, veg, wholegrains, bread, nuts, seeds, lentils, meat alternatives, dairy/ dairy alternatives etc will help your nails and general health.

I don't think your nails are showing signs of deficiency though. Nails change over time, just like your hair. I wouldn't worry about it unless your nails were dry, ridged, and brittle. Brittle nails are unhealthy.

Healthy nails should be strong, pink, not 'spoon shaped', smooth and slightly flexible.

It's worth getting more sleep too- your body recharges and renews itself at night. Good luck.