Doctors Express Nail Changes Can Be Symptoms Of Lung Cancer

Illustration of the condition of the nails. (Freepic)

JAKARTA - Kuku is not just a matter of aesthetics. According to experts, the shape and color of the nails can provide important clues about a person's health. One of the changes to the nails can be a sign of advanced lung cancer.

Dr. Davood Johari, a lung specialist at NYC Health, New York revealed that about 5-15 percent of lung cancer patients experience a condition called fingernail clubbing, which is a medical condition characterized by a swollen finger.

"Fellows look wider and rounder than usual, with nails curling down, looking like an inverse spoon," Johari explained, quoted from the New York Post page.

"The lower part of the nail feels smoother and softer. The tip of the finger can appear reddish or feel warmer than usual," he continued.

The exact cause of fingernail clubbing in lung cancer is not yet fully understood. One theory says lung tumors can produce hormone-like substances that widen blood vessels in the fingers, increase blood flow, and cause a buildup of fluid under the nails.

Although fingernail clubbing often appears in advanced lung cancer, this condition can also indicate other health problems, such as chronic lung infections, interstitial lung disease, cystic fibrosis, bronkiectics, congenital heart disorders, Crohn disease, ulserative collitis, celiac disease, cirrhosis of the liver, endocarditis infective disease.

Johari stressed the importance of medical examinations if you experience the following symptoms:- Cough that hasn't gone away for more than a few weeks- Fierce sounds or changes in sound- A loss of weight for no reason- Fatigue without a clear explanation- shoulder pain during rest that gets worse at night - Changes in vision or displacies

Diagnosis of lung cancer usually involves examination of medical history, physical examination, imaging tests, and biopsies to ensure disease. Early detection is very important, because lung cancer is often only detected when it is in advanced stages.

In addition to fingernail clubbing, be aware of dark lines under the nails, bruises that do not heal, nails are lifted, lumps under the nails, skin around dark nails, or bleeding.

"There are many changes to the nails that are not dangerous, but if the change in color, shape, or thickness lasts more than two weeks, you should immediately see a doctor." said Johari.