However, it is still useful for people to be aware of other conditions that may cause peeling nails. If they have any other relevant symptoms in addition to peeling nails, they will know to mention these to a doctor. Below, we cover the additional symptoms of conditions that may cause peeling, brittle, or discolored nails. Without treatment, a mild iron deficiency can become more serious and may lead to anemia. Anemia occurs when the body is low in healthy red blood cells and does not have enough hemoglobin available.
An underactive thyroid does not produce enough hormones. As well as brittle nails, an underactive thyroid may cause:.
According to the American Lung Association , the symptoms of lung disease may include:. According to a article , brown discoloration on the upper half of the nail may indicate kidney disease. The recommended daily intake of iron is 18 milligrams mg. Iron-rich foods include:. Research suggests that coconut oil is a safe and effective skin moisturizer. Rubbing coconut oil into nails may help to keep them moisturized. Although it is rare, underlying health conditions can sometimes cause peeling nails.
Below are the treatments for each of these conditions. The standard treatment for iron deficiency is to eat more iron-rich foods or take iron supplements. If a person has symptoms of anemia, they should speak to their doctor, who can recommend the best treatment.
People can treat mild dehydration by drinking more water. If they have severe dehydration, they may need to receive intravenous fluids in a hospital. It is possible to treat an underactive thyroid with a synthetic form of the T4 hormone that a healthy thyroid produces. There are several treatments available for this condition. Brittle nails can also be a sign of vitamin and mineral deficiencies, in particular B complex vitamins such as biotin, calcium, and zinc.
It can also be sign of certain medical conditions such as anemia low blood count , thyroid disorders, and skin disorders such as psoriasis. It is important to see your primary care provider or dermatologist to determine the cause of your brittle flaky nails and discuss the most appropriate treatment.
In the meantime protect your nails by wearing protective gloves while washing and cleaning, take a multivitamin, avoid nail polish and remover, avoid prolonged exposure to water such as swimming, and apply a moisturizer to your hands and nails. Zocdoc Answers is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor in the United States immediately. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. Need coronavirus guidance? Check out our resources. List your practice on Zocdoc. Find doctors close. When undertaking any activities that immersing your hands in water e. It is also advisable to wear gloves when performing chores that come with higher risk of traumatic injury to the nails e. Prolonged used of nail polish removers that contain acetone as the active ingredient.
Although acetone is very effective, it is not the most gentle when it comes to stripping the nails and cuticles of their moisture. If the flaking nails feel hard to touch and rigid hard to bend , moisturizing is your best option in addition to proper diet. This is also true for nails that are flaking in layers. The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology recommends looking for lotions that are formulated with alpha-hydroxyl acids AHAs or lanolin, giving Elon is a good example.
Soak your hands in water for 5 minutes or so, then apply the lotion all over the nails. Eucerin and Aquaphor brands are also highly rated. Jojoba oil, olive oil, and glycerin are also good choices for nail moisturizing.
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