Doctor explains how 'Terry's nails' could be a sign of heart failure
Doctor explains how 'Terry's nails' could be a sign of heart failure
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Cardiovascular disease is a major health concern in the UK - responsible for about 25 per cent of all deaths. It encompasses various conditions impacting the heart and blood vessels, including heart failure, which happens when the heart can't pump blood effectively. This doesn't mean the heart has ceased to function, but it does require support to improve its performance. Early detection of symptoms is crucial for timely treatment. While shortness of breath, tiredness and rapid heartbeat are common signs of heart failure, there's a less obvious symptom that could show up on your nails.
NHS surgeon Dr Karan Rajan highlighted this symptom on TikTok, where he educates his 5.2 million followers about health indicators found on nails. He discussed Terry's nails, characterised by white nails with a pink strip at the top, which could signal not just heart failure but also severe conditions like liver cirrhosis. Dr. Rajan explained: "If the entire nail is white with a pink band on top, this is called Terry's nail." He added: "Often linked with liver cirrhosis, kidney failure or congestive heart failure.".
The Cleveland Clinic in the US corroborates this information, , reports the Express. "Terry's nail is a type of nail discolouration," the clinic explains. "The nailbeds look 'washed out,' except for a thin reddish-brown strip near the tip. "Often, Terry's nails are a symptom of a chronic condition, such as liver failure or diabetes." However, they are not always something to worry about. Sometimes, it is a sign of ageing," the clinic notes. "If you have Terry's nails, see a healthcare provider for evaluation and treatment.".
It is believed that Terry's nails may occur due to a reduced number of blood vessels near the nailbeds. "But Terry's nails can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition," the clinic warns. These include:. Other symptoms of heart failure to watch out for include:. The NHS advises: "See a GP if you experience persistent or gradually worsening symptoms of heart failure. Call 999 for an ambulance or go to your nearest A&E department as soon as possible if you have sudden or very severe symptoms.".
