Say So Long to Discolored, Peeling and Brittle Nails!
Did you know that rigid and brittle nails could be caused by an underlying thyroid problem? Soft, rigid or peeling nails are a common sign of hypothyroidism. While certainly not life altering, brittle nails are frustrating for many women. The best many can do is manage rigid and discolored nails with weekly manicures or acrylic nails. On the bright side, healthy nails are one of the many side benefits of correcting a thyroid problem.
Fingernails and toenails should be smooth, translucent, and firm with pink nail beds. In hypothyroidism, nails may be thickened, brittle and slow growing. (1) Nails can also be think and striated. (3) Hypothyroidism also causes atrophy of the nails. (2) Many individuals suffering from low thyroid function not only have rigid, brittle nails, but also have either discolored nails or a bluish tone to their nail beds. Much of this is due to the decreased circulation and protein synthesis in those with hypothyroidism. Hypothyroid individuals are also prone to ingrown toenails and fungus.
Treating individuals with hypothyroidism using desiccated thyroid, which contains both the active form of thyroid hormone (T3) and the inactive thyroid hormone (T4), increases blood flow to the extremities and throughout the entire body resulting in numerous health benefits including healthy nails, hair and skin. This is the same reason why symptoms of cold hands and feet are also often resolved.
If you have rigid or brittle nails, check to see if you have additional symptoms of hypothyroidism along with taking your resting body temperature. To do this, you will want to take your temperature before getting out of bed in the morning and at a consistent time. If in addition to brittle nails, you have multiple symptoms of hypothyroidism, along with a resting temperature below 98.6 degrees, it’s a good indication that you would benefit from a therapeutic trial of desiccated thyroid. Not only could you eliminate debilitating symptoms such as extreme fatigue, brain fog or poor concentration, you could also rejuvenate your physical appearance. So long brittle nails!
Dr. Hotze shares his 4 point treatment regimen that will keep you healthy and vibrant:
Related Content
Dr. Hotze, Dr. Sheridan and Dr. Ellsworth on Diagnosing Hypothyroidism
Our Top 5 Tips for Healthy Skin Care
DIY Coconut Oil Hand/Foot Scrub
Research
1. Thyroid Hormone Action on Skin
2. A Study on Cutaneous Manifestations of Thyroid Disease
3. Skin Findings in Thyroid Diseases
