Nail clubbing is a physical change in the shape of the fingers and fingernails. It happens when the tissue beneath the nail thickens, making the fingertips appear larger and rounded. The nails also curve downward, and the angle between the nail and the nail bed increases. This condition can affect one or more fingers and usually develops over time.
Clubbing is often a sign of an underlying health problem, especially involving the heart or lungs. It may occur in diseases like cystic fibrosis, or heart defects. Sometimes, it can also be related to liver or digestive conditions. Rarely, it is seen in healthy people with no clear cause.
The exact reason why nail clubbing happens is still not fully understood. It may be due to increased blood flow to the fingertips or changes in certain proteins. Doctors often look for the "Schamroth sign" — if you put two fingernails together and there’s no small diamond-shaped space, clubbing may be present.
If someone notices clubbing of their nails, it's important to see a doctor. The doctor will usually check for underlying conditions through tests. Treating the cause can sometimes improve or stop further changes in the nails.
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