Occasionally, you might notice white spots on your fingernails or toenails. While these spots often fade over time and are usually harmless, they may sometimes indicate an infection or underlying health issue. Let’s explore the various causes of white spots on nails.
1. Trauma
The most common cause of white spots is trauma. They can result from hitting your nail against a hard surface, getting something lodged underneath, or nail-biting. Additionally, nail art tools or chemicals may also contribute to white spots.
In such cases, the spots typically grow out with the nail, so there’s usually no need for significant concern. However, trimming your nails short will protect them from injury and avoid biting them. Utilizing a nail strengthener can also be beneficial for maintaining nail health.
2. Psoriasis
Psoriasis, an autoimmune skin condition, can also cause nail spots. It results in a buildup of skin cells, forming patches that may appear white or red.
When psoriasis affects the nails, it can lead to onycholysis, where the nail plate separates from the nail bed, forming white spots. Treatment for psoriatic nails may require systemic therapy, as topical treatments might not be effective.
3. Fungal Infections
Fungal infections can also lead to white spots on nails. A specific fungal infection called superficial white onychomycosis is characterized by white patches on the nail surface. This condition necessitates treatment with prescription antifungal medications.
4. Medications
Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs and long-term antibiotics like sulfonamides, can lead to nail white spots. White spots or horizontal lines may also manifest as side effects of cancer treatment.
Approximately 40% of patients undergoing chemotherapy report experiencing these symptoms. This happens because chemotherapy drugs can impair the function of cells responsible for nail growth.
5. Protein Deficiency and Other Health Conditions
Protein deficiency, liver disease, kidney disease, and heart failure can also lead to nail white spots. If half of the nail is entirely white, it may indicate kidney disease and should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
Horizontal white lines on nails, known as Muehrcke’s lines, may indicate a deficiency in albumin protein or malnutrition. Other skin conditions, including alopecia areata, lichen planus, and atopic dermatitis, can also cause white spots on nails.
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