Changes in fingernails and toenails signal cancer – what to look out for

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If you notice any changes in your nails along with other symptoms of cancer, such as weight loss and fatigue, you should see a doctor.

Recognizing signs of cancer as early as possible can mean the difference between surviving the disease or not. While there are some common symptoms of the disease that can occur regardless of the form of cancer, others are more specific. According to the expert, they can even affect your fingernails and toenails.

The doctor warned about the change in nail color, as well as a dark line under the nail.

One unusual symptom of cancer that people may not be aware of is changes in the appearance or color of their fingernails or toenails. While changes in the appearance of nails can be caused by a variety of factors, such as fungal infections or trauma to the nail, they can be a sign of underlying cancer.
Skin cancer

One type of cancer that can cause nail changes is skin cancer. Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, can sometimes appear as a dark or changing mole on the skin, but it can also appear as a dark line or stripe under the nail.

Other types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, can cause nail changes.

Other signs of skin cancer to look out for.

A sore that doesn't heal. It may appear clear, shiny, pink, or pearly white. It may look red, painful, rough, and have raised edges.

Ulcer. This can be a broken area of ​​skin that doesn't heal within four weeks.

Swelling. It can be small, slow-growing, shiny, pink, or red.

Red spots on the skin. These can be itchy. Although they can be caused by other non-cancerous conditions, they're worth checking out.

Mole or moles. Any change in a mole or freckle could be a sign of skin cancer called melanoma.