Reading the signs

Your fingernails hold clues to your health. Learn to recognize the signs that might indicate a health issue. But know that some nail conditions are harmless. These include vertical ridges, which tend to worsen as you get older, and white lines or spots. Spots usually result from injury to the nail plate or nail bed. In time, they'll grow out.
Other nail conditions can indicate disease. Remove your nail polish before you see your doctor — he or she may check your nails for signs of an underlying condition.