Dr. Joe, an emergency medic, shared on TikTok that your fingernails can show signs of a serious heart condition called aortic regurgitation. He explains, “If you press down on your nails and see a red pulsation, you may want to visit your GP.” This pulsation could indicate a problem with the aortic valve, which regulates blood flow through the heart.

Aortic regurgitation happens when the valve doesn’t close properly, causing blood to leak back into the heart. Over time, the heart weakens, leading to symptoms like shortness of breath, chest pain, and irregular heartbeats.

Several factors can cause this condition, including a genetic bicuspid valve, calcium buildup (aortic stenosis), infections (endocarditis), and conditions like Marfan syndrome or lupus. Men aged 40-60 are most commonly affected.

A sign to look for is the Quincke sign—visible capillary pulsations when pressing the fingernail. This sign was first described in 1868 by Dr. Heinrich Quincke. However, this isn’t a diagnostic tool; it’s just an indicator that further tests may be needed.

If you notice symptoms like chest tightness or fatigue, consult a doctor immediately, as aortic regurgitation can become severe over time. Regular check-ups and medications are typical treatments for those diagnosed.