Coilonychia, A Very Common Nail Abnormality: Symptoms And Treatment

When the nails become very thin and present unusual characteristics, to the point of completely losing the classic one that characterizes them, it is possible that the person has koilonychia.

Koilonychia is a fairly common disorder in which the affected nails have abnormalities such as flattening and cavities. For this reason, it is common for this problem to be called “spoon nails” in the popular sphere.

We have to bear in mind that the nails are a reflection of the state of health. Therefore, any change in its thickness, appearance, texture, etc., can give clues about a medical condition that we should pay immediate attention to.

In this sense, it is interesting to know that koilonychia usually manifests itself in those people who have an iron deficiency, for example. However, it can also be associated with other processes that we must take into account. Below, we provide you with more information about it.

An example to understand what koilonychia is

Gabriel is 22 years old and has suffered from diarrhea and a feeling of general weakness for a week . When you go to the doctor, he examines your hands and asks if your nails have been that shape for a long time: very thin, brittle and spoon-shaped.

Gabriel responds that 6 months ago they began to acquire this form but, since they do not hurt or interfere with his daily life, he did not give it any importance.

However, after carrying out the relevant tests, the doctor informs the young man that he suffers from severe iron deficiency anemia.

It also indicates that if he had gone to the clinic earlier and as soon as his nails had acquired that shape, he would not have reached that point of extreme weakness.

Koilonychia and iron deficiency anemia

The most common cause of spoon nails is iron deficiency. On the other hand, it is quite common for it to appear in children with malnutrition and in women who suffer very heavy periods.

According to Mayo Clinic experts, koilonychia can be a sign of iron deficiency anemia, but also of “a liver condition known as ‘hemochromatosis,’ in which the body absorbs too much iron from the food you eat.”

On the other hand, they also comment that this disorder may be associated with heart problems and hypothyroidism. 

Other factors that could influence the appearance of this problem:

• Chemotherapy.
• Consumption of corticosteroids.
• Regular use of petroleum-containing products.
• Maintain a diet very low in folates (vitamin B9) and vitamin C.

Is it a serious health problem?

Koilonychia is apparently little more than an aesthetic problem. However, we must see it for what it is: a symptom associated with a disease or a nutritional deficit that we must address.

Therefore, as soon as we perceive that the nails stop having the usual shape and texture, it is necessary to go to the doctor to have an analysis done. A timely diagnosis can contribute to the success of the treatment.

It is said that in the most extreme cases of koilonychia, the nail can even contain several drops of water, pretending to be a real spoon. In addition, it can appear on one hand and also on the feet.

What is the treatment for koilonychia?

Doctors’ approach to treating koilonychia will always start with the cause. However, since the most common cause is anemia and nutritional problems, it never hurts to improve your diet, in addition to following your doctor’s recommendations.

Tips for feeding

• Regularly consume fruits, vegetables and vegetables in general.
• Increase the consumption of legumes, such as lentils and chickpeas.
• Take advantage of brewer’s yeast and wheat germ to complement some meals.
• Combine meat and fish with iron-rich vegetables such  as spinach, peas, beets, broccoli, artichokes …
• Seafood is also very healthy food in case of iron deficiency.

If you have questions about what else you can do to improve your health and the condition of your nails, consult your doctor. The professional will know how to tell you what is the most suitable for you. Do not let your concerns pass under the table!