CAUSE OF SPOON-SHAPED NAILS

It is often said that eyes are the windows to the soul, well, toenails and nail conditions can also be the window to underlying diseases.  Certain conditions can change the shape, colour, texture and appearance of the nails. As we discussed in previous blogs, nail conditions such as hippocratic nails can be linked to heart or lung disease, however, spoon shaped nails can be linked to other disease. Spoon shaped or concave nails are termed as "koilonychia". Koilonychia has been often linked to iron deficiency, 

Causes of koilonychia:
  • inadequate iron in the diet (chronic iron deficiency)
  • inability to absorb adequate iron from the diet
  • malnutrition
  • gastrointestinal malignancy
  • celiac disease
Other causes:
  • high altitude 
  • nail trauma
  • disorders that involve muscles and bones
  • genetics
     
If you or a loved one has these types of nails or have experienced these types of nails, it is important for them to get it evaluated by their GP or their chiropodist. Recognizing symptoms/signs early can lead to early diagnosis and help further prevent diseases/conditions if they do present themselves.Treatment of this condition is often linked to the underlying cause of this nail condition.
 
Brought to you by Doctor John A. Hardy, owner of Toronto's foot clinic, Academy Foot and Orthotics Clinic.
 
 

PROFESSIONAL FOOT CLINIC

416-465-8737

Toronto, ON Chiropodist Academy Foot and Orthotic

752 BROADVIEW AVENUE Toronto, ON M4K 2P1 

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