All articles tagged with #toenails
Scientists have discovered that toenail clippings can reveal long-term exposure to radon, a radioactive gas linked to lung cancer, potentially aiding early diagnosis in non-smokers or those unaware of their exposure. The method detects lead isotopes from radon decay in toenails, showing promise for broader screening and risk assessment.
Slow-growing toenails could be a sign of high cholesterol, according to Dr Sami Firoozi, a consultant cardiologist at Harley Street Clinic. Excess fatty substance in the blood vessels can lead to peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which can cause symptoms such as leg pain, hair loss, numbness, and open sores. People aged 40 and above are entitled to a free NHS Health Check-up every five years, which includes a blood test to measure cholesterol levels. Lifestyle measures such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and cholesterol-lowering medication can help control cholesterol levels.
High cholesterol can cause peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which can result in poor circulation to your toenails, causing them to be brittle or grow slowly. Other symptoms of PAD include hair loss on legs and feet, numb or weak legs, open sores that won't heal, and shiny skin. High cholesterol is mainly caused by eating fatty food, not exercising enough, being overweight, smoking, and drinking alcohol. Statins are one of the primary ways to treat high cholesterol, but lifestyle changes such as eating less fatty food, exercising more, stopping smoking, and cutting down on alcohol can also help lower it.