• Skip to Main Content
  • English Français
Go to homepage
  • About
    • The Thyroid Gland
    • Thyroid and Pregnancy
  • Symptoms
  • Diagnosis
    • Self-Assessment
    • Family Tree
    • TSH Blood Test
  • Treatment
  • Resources
  • FAQs
  • Start
    Self-Assessment Quiz
  1. Home
    /
  2. Symptoms
    /
  3. Brittle Nails
    /
Brittle Nails

An overlooked symptom of hypothyroidism
is brittle nails.1

Brittle nails may be indicative of hypothyroidism, which can impact the overall shape of the nail and cause it to grow in a flat, spoon-like shape.1,2

Brittle Nails
Brittle nails are one of many hypothyroidism symptoms

When the thyroid is underactive, the body slows down due to a decrease in thyroid hormones. This causes slow growing, and brittle nails.1,3

Talk to your doctor

The thyroid also controls sweating and less sweat is produced when it is underactive.1 Sweat acts as a natural moisturiser, and less sweat makes the nails brittle.4

If you are experiencing brittle nails, it may be indicative of thyroid symptoms or hypothyroidism. Consult with your doctor and arrange a thyroid test as soon as possible.

Other Hypothyroid Symptoms

Click on the symptoms below to know more.
  • Hoarse Voice
  • Heavy Periods
  • Swollen Face
  • Difficulty Concentrating
  • All Symptoms

References:

1. Safer JD. Thyroid hormone action on skin. Dermatoendocrinol. 2011;3(3):211-215. 2. Fingernails: possible problems. Mayo Clinic. Accessed May 18, 2023. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/multimedia/nails/sls-20076131?s=3 3. Rosenberg A, Lipner SR. Nail changes associated with thyroid disease. Cutis. 2022;110(2):E8-E12. 4. The lowdown on thyroid slowdown. Harvard Health Publishing. Accessed May 18, 2023. https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/the-lowdown-on-thyroid-slowdown

  • Next Symptom: Hoarse Voice
  • Previous Symptom: Muscle Pain
Back to Top
Share
Share to Facebook
Share via email
Share to X, formally known as Twitter
Copy Website Address
  • Site Map
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
©2024 Viatris Inc. All rights reserved. The information provided in this Web site is intended solely as general information for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice and care of your doctor, nor is it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any questions regarding your treatment or condition, always consult your doctor or another health care professional. NON-2023-7385E - SE2024
Go to homepage

YOU ARE NOW LEAVING THYROIDSYMPTOMS.CA

The sponsor is not responsible for the content of the site you are about to visit.

CONTINUE
CANCEL