Brittle nails? Here’s why your nails break so easily!

Health Wellness

Nails are, nowadays, more than just the tip of our fingertips and toes that serve a few functions for our everyday lives and a part of our body. They have become a fashion accessory. A lot of people are seen flaunting acrylic or fake nails to make their hands look more put together and pretty. Initially, a remedy to curb nail-biting, the nail extension business has boomed into a whole industry, thanks to the importance that fashion gives to nails.

Some people, however, are very lucky and do not need to resort to fake nails or nail extensions to make their hands look pretty, because their natural nails are strong and long. They can just paint them pretty colours, and could just become a hand model for a jewellery or nail paint brand. If you are not one of those fortunate ones and have brittle nails, you might need to address the cause of the problem to get rid of them. Here are the reasons why your nails are brittle and can break easily.

Brittle nails can be classified into two types – dry and brittle, and soft and brittle. Dry hands, nails, and cuticles are not very uncommon. They are caused when the skin is deprived of moisture. Excessive washing of hands with soap, drying them with an air dryer, etc. can cause dry and brittle nails. Contrary to dry nails, soft and brittle nails may be caused due to excessive moisture, which may result due to overexposure to detergents, nail paint removers, etc.

The condition of the splitting of the fingernails is called onychoschizia and is more common in women. Apart from moisture, other factors that may cause onychoschizia are –

Deficiencies

Mostly, external causes like moisture are the cause of brittle nails. But in rare cases, certain deficiencies of vitamins and more commonly iron can cause weak nails. Eating foods rich in iron, or consuming iron supplements can help in tackling the problem and give you stronger nails.

Raynaud’s syndrome

Raynaud's syndrome can cause brittle nails

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Raynaud’s syndrome or phenomenon is a common circulation disorder which can affect nail health. Doctors can prescribe medicines that reduce symptoms of the syndrome, which will also help in improving nail health.

Age

Old age can cause brittle nails

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Age plays a very important role in the health of our body. As we age, we are at a higher risk of certain diseases and disorders. Fingernails tend to become softer, brittle and weaker as a person ages. Though inevitable, taking proper care of your nails can delay the process by some years.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism can cause brittle nails

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Hypothyroidism refers to an inactive or less active thyroid gland, which leads to lower thyroid production in the body. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weakness, fatigue, hair fall, weight gain, brittle and weak nails. It is mostly treated by giving synthetic thyroid doses orally.

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