What causes an unhealthy condition of the nail?

An unhealthy condition of the nail can often be traced back to hereditary factors or injury. Hereditary factors may include genetic predispositions that affect the strength and health of the nails, making them more susceptible to various conditions. For instance, certain families may be more prone to nail dystrophies, where nails grow abnormally.

Injuries, whether from trauma or overexposure to harsh chemicals, can also lead to unhealthy nails. This could manifest as discoloration, ridging, or even detachment from the nail bed. Understanding the root causes linked to hereditary factors and physical injury is crucial for preventing and addressing nail health issues effectively.

Other factors such as improper filing techniques or environmental exposure can certainly impact nail health, but they do not cover the broader underlying issues that hereditary and injury-related conditions may introduce. Hence, the emphasis on hereditary factors and injury as significant causes of nail health problems makes this option the correct choice.