Brittle nails could be a sign of serious health problems: Causes and underlying conditions explained

Nails are composed of keratin, the same protective protein found in hair and skin, and they play an important role in shielding fingertips and toes from injury. When nails become brittle, split, or peel easily, it is often seen as a cosmetic issue, but it can sometimes signal an underlying health concern. Research from Harvard Medical School shows that nearly 27% of women experience brittle nails, a condition known as onychoschizia. While frequent washing, harsh chemicals, or nail polish remover can damage nails, health conditions such as iron deficiency or thyroid disorders may also be contributing factors.



Why your nails keep breaking: Know common causes


Brittle nails usually fall into two categories:

• Dry and brittle nails: Caused by too little moisture, often due to repeated washing, drying, or ageing.
• Soft and brittle nails: Caused by too much moisture, often linked to detergents, nail polish removers, or overexposure to water.

Other common contributors include frequent manicures, harsh nail products, or nutritional deficiencies. However, in many cases, nail brittleness can point to deeper health conditions.



Serious health conditions linked to brittle nails


Iron deficiency

Iron is essential for producing healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. According to a study published in NIH, low iron levels reduce oxygen delivery to tissues, including nails, leaving them weak, thin, and prone to breakage. In addition, poor iron levels can lead to fatigue, dizziness, and pale skin, further indicating a need for correction. To check this, healthcare professionals often measure ferritin, which reflects the amount of stored iron. If ferritin levels are low, it suggests that the body does not have enough iron reserves to produce healthy red blood cells. In such cases, treatment may include eating more iron-rich foods like spinach, red meat, and legumes, or using iron supplements if recommended.


Hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid slows many body processes, including nail growth. People with hypothyroidism may notice brittle, ridged nails along with symptoms such as hair loss, fatigue, constipation, weight gain, and low mood. Treatment usually involves daily synthetic thyroid hormone tablets, such as levothyroxine, which help restore normal metabolism and improve nail health over time.


Raynaud’s syndrome

This condition interferes with normal blood circulation in the fingers and toes. When blood flow is reduced, the nails do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, which can make them brittle, thin, or slow to grow. People with this condition may also notice that their hands and feet feel unusually cold or that the skin changes colour, often turning pale, blue, or red in response to temperature or stress. To improve circulation and reduce these symptoms, healthcare providers may recommend medicines such as calcium channel blockers (like amlodipine or nifedipine) or other options such as losartan or fluoxetine, which help relax blood vessels and protect nail health.



Remedies to strengthen brittle nails

If brittle nails are caused by external factors, small lifestyle changes can help restore strength:

• Moisturise regularly: Apply hand cream or cuticle oil after washing to lock in hydration.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: Limit exposure to detergents and nail polish removers containing acetone.
• Wear gloves: Protect nails when cleaning or washing dishes.
• Choose gentle nail care: Avoid excessive filing, buffing, or artificial nails that weaken natural nail structure.
• Eat a balanced diet: Ensure adequate protein, vitamins (especially biotin), and minerals for healthy nail growth.

For nails weakened by health conditions, treating the root cause such as correcting iron deficiency or managing thyroid levels is essential.

On average, fingernails grow about 3 millimetres per month, while toenails grow more slowly. This means visible improvement after making lifestyle or medical changes may take several months, as new, healthier nail layers gradually replace damaged ones.
Brittle nails are more than just a cosmetic concern; they can sometimes act as a window into your overall health. While frequent hand washing, harsh chemicals, or ageing are common causes, conditions such as iron deficiency, hypothyroidism, and Raynaud’s syndrome may also be responsible.

Pay attention to other symptoms that accompany nail changes and consult a doctor if needed. By combining good nail care habits with the right medical support, you can restore nail strength and protect your overall well-being.


Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or lifestyle change.



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