Have you ever noticed white streaks or lines on your fingernails? It can be a common occurrence, but what do these streaks mean? Here we’ll explore the different causes of white streaks on fingernails and whether they indicate any underlying health issues.
What are the Causes of White Streaks on Fingernails?
White streaks, also known as leukonychia, can appear in different forms on the nails. They can appear as dots, lines, or cover the whole nail. These streaks are a result of damage to the nail matrix, which is the layer below the nail.
Some of the common causes of white streaks on fingernails include:.
1. Injury on the Nails
If you’ve recently injured your nails, it may result in white streaks or lines. Nail injuries can be caused by various things, such as hitting your nails with a hammer or getting them caught in a door.
If the injury is not severe, it will eventually grow out with your nails, and the streaks will disappear.
2. Nutritional Deficiencies
White streaks on nails can be due to a deficiency in certain vitamins and minerals such as zinc, calcium, iron, and vitamin C. If you’re not getting enough of these in your diet, it can cause leukonychia.
3. Fungal Infections
Fungal infections can cause white spots or streaks on your nails. The fungus thrives in warm and moist environments and can easily spread from one nail to others. This is known as onychomycosis and should be treated by a dermatologist.
4. Medication Side-effect
If you’ve started taking a new medication, it could cause white streaks on your nails as a side effect. Some medications that can cause leukonychia include chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, and antifungal drugs.
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5. Liver Disease
A common liver condition known as cirrhosis can cause white streaks on fingernails. This condition impairs the liver’s ability to filter toxins from the blood which can cause liver spots or white streaks on the nails.
6. Kidney Problems
Kidney problems can cause white streaks on nails. In particular, people with kidney failure may have white lines on their nails.
7. Allergic Reaction
An allergic reaction to certain things such as cosmetics and synthetic nail products can cause white streaks on nails.
When to See a Doctor about White Streaks on Fingernails
While most causes of white streaks on nails are not severe, there are cases where you should seek medical attention. You should see a dermatologist or doctor if:.
- White lines cover more than one nail or develop without any injury
- Lines or spots are accompanied by swelling and redness around the cuticles
- You notice a change in the texture or color of your nails
It’s essential that you seek medical attention if the white streaks on nails are severe and accompanied by pain.
Preventing White Streaks on Fingernails
Here are some tips that can help prevent white streaks on nails:.
- Use protective gloves when performing manual labor
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals
- Don’t bite your nails
- Don’t use your nails to pick at things
- Avoid using harsh chemicals on your nails
Final Thoughts
White streaks on nails are usually not a cause for alarm, but it’s important to be aware of their potential causes.
If you are concerned about your nail’s health, speak to a dermatologist or doctor, who can diagnose the cause and provide treatment options.
