Instead of curving outward normally, the nail becomes unusually thin and develops a depression in the center, creating a spoon-like appearance.
The American Academy of Dermatology notes that spoon-shaped nails can sometimes be associated with iron deficiency, although there can be other causes as well.
The important point is that you shouldn’t assume you have an iron deficiency simply because your nails look different. A healthcare professional can determine whether testing is appropriate.
What About Nails That Curve Dramatically?
Some people naturally have curved nails, but a new change in nail curvature can sometimes be significant.
A condition called nail clubbing causes the nails to curve downward while the fingertips may become wider or swollen. It can be associated with certain heart, lung, liver, or gastrointestinal conditions.
If your nails have gradually developed a noticeably different shape, particularly if the change is new, it’s a good idea to have them
