Do you really pay attention to your nails? You might get them manicured, or you might file and paint them yourself, but do you ever take a minute to properly inspect them?

The colour of your nails can often be telling you something about your health, so follow this guide, courtesy of Embarrassing Bodies' Dr. Pixie, who recently appeared at a Loceryl Nail Gel event. Give your nails the attention they deserve...

Before reading, it is important to note that you should always consult your GP if you have any cause for concern.

1. Yellow nails

This is most likely a sign of a fungal nail infection or the beginnings of one. Very rarely, it can be a sign of yellow nail syndrome - a rare condition affecting the lungs and lymphatic circulation.

2. Green nails

Green nails could be a sign of a pseudomonas bacterial infection, which can also be accompanied by a bit of a bad smell - many people live with this infection without any issues, but it can develop, so it's still important to see a doctor.

It could also possibly be a sign of candida (thrush infection), which can easily be treated with an over-the- counter medication from a pharmacist.

3. Brown nails

This colour is often due to staining, either from nicotine or nail varnish. It can also occur post-chemotherapy.

4. White nails

White patches on the nail can signify low levels of blood protein or, rarely and in the very worst cases, kidney failure - but it's exceptionally unlikely this would be the first sign.

Multiple white parallel lines can be due to manicuring. And, of course, white spots can simply be caused by trauma, and the spots grow out harmlessly.

5. White tips or yellow tips

This can simply be due to nail trauma or is common among people who suffer from psoriasis. It can also be a sign of a fungal infection, which needs to be treated before it spreads.

Find out about other nail color and what it says about your health:https://dyshus.com/articles

That's informative. Thanks!