What does it mean if a nail is "discolored"?

A nail being "discolored" often indicates that there may be underlying health issues, making it an important sign to recognize. Discoloration can arise from various factors such as infections, which might cause a change in color to yellow, green, or black, as well as exposure to certain chemicals, which can also result in staining. This symptom can be a crucial indicator that professional evaluation is needed to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Other choices do not accurately reflect the implications of nail discoloration. For instance, a sign of healthy nail growth would typically be associated with clear or naturally colored nails rather than discoloration. Maintenance might help improve the appearance of nails, but it does not directly relate to the health concerns that discoloration may suggest. Lastly, discolored nails could indicate problems regardless of the condition of the nail polish applied, which is not necessarily a direct cause of nail color change.