The white half moon found at the base of your nails is medically referred to as lunula. And if you’ve never really paid much attention to it, you’ll probably be surprised to hear that it’s seen by doctors as an insight into your current state of health.
According to Bright Side, you should always keep a watchful eye on the shape of your lunulae. If you don’t have any, or have noticed that they are quickly disappearing, it may indicate a problem with your thyroid gland or even a vitamin B12 or iron deficiency. If they have simply become smaller than usual, on the other hand, it could be a sign of low blood pressure or circulatory disorders. Those with half moons on their fingernails that are larger than usual could be experiencing cardiovascular or heart problems, notes Bright Side.
If your lunulae are black, you need to seek medical assistance immediately
While large lunulae are more common in those who are very active, if you live a sedentary lifestyle and are noticing them growing in size, it could simply be a signal that you’re under a lot of stress. You also need to be aware of any changes in color. While white suggests you are in good health, any other color could be a sign of something serious. Black, for example, is known to indicate heavy metal poisoning.
Ultimately, Bright Side claims that the lunula on each finger is connected to a different part of your body. The lunula on your thumb is linked to your lungs and spleen, the one on your index finger is associated with the intestine and pancreas, and your middle finger lunula is your brain and cardiovascular system. Your ring finger lunula represents your reproductive and lymphatic systems, and the little finger lunula, which is commonly invisible, stands for your kidneys, small intestine, and heart.
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