What These 9 Nail Changes Mean for Your Health - Including 4 That Should Never Be Ignored

Dermatologists explain the nail symptoms worth noticing, from harmless spots to warning signs

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:52pm

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Nails are considered appendages of the skin and can provide insights into your overall health. Experts discuss common nail changes like white spots, dark streaks, brittle nails, yellow nails, lifting nails, vertical ridges, spoon nails, and pitting nails - explaining what they mean and when they may signal an underlying condition that requires medical attention.

Why it matters

Regularly examining your nails can help identify potential health issues early on. While many nail changes are harmless, some could indicate serious underlying conditions like skin cancer, respiratory diseases, or metabolic disorders. Understanding what different nail changes mean can empower people to seek proper medical care when necessary.

The details

White spots are usually caused by minor nail injuries, not calcium deficiencies. Dark streaks are often benign but can rarely signal nail melanoma, so they should always be checked by a dermatologist. Brittle nails are common with aging or genetics, but sudden brittleness may indicate a thyroid issue. Yellow nails are usually from nail polish staining, but in rare cases could signal a respiratory condition called yellow nail syndrome. Lifting nails, where the nail plate separates from the nail bed, can lead to infections if left untreated and may be a sign of nail psoriasis. Vertical ridges, spoon nails, and pitted nails are also discussed, with explanations of their potential causes.

  • Nail changes like white spots can disappear as the nail grows out.

The players

Chris Adigun, MD

A board-certified dermatologist and nail specialist in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Dana Stern, MD

An assistant clinical professor at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine and a board-certified dermatologist in New York City who specializes in nails.

Shari Lipner, MD, PhD

An associate professor of clinical dermatology and nail specialist at the Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York City.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.