Let's figure out why white spots appear on the nail plate

The nail plate, like the skin, reacts to various disturbances in the functioning of organs and systems. Often a person notices the appearance of white dots on the nails, the causes of which can be varied. The body in this form gives a signal about serious diseases. You can get rid of the problem by identifying and eliminating the predisposing factor.

Causes of white spots on nails

Leukonychia is white spots on the nails caused by keratinization of the nail cells. The nails peel, and air and fatty tissue accumulate between the layers. The spread of the pathology can be of a different nature - from individual spots on several nails to their massive damage on all ten fingers.

The sources of origin of this disease can be both outside and inside the human body. External provoking circumstances include:

• nail injury;
• careless manicure or unprofessional extensions;
• exposure of nails to any chemicals (washing and cleaning agents, fertilizers, paints, building mixtures, etc.);
• wearing uncomfortable shoes.

Internal factors are nothing more than the presence of chronic diseases or infections in a person. The most common causes of white spots on fingernails are:

• diseases of internal organs (liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, thyroid gland);
• metabolic changes due to bacterial damage;
• disturbances in metabolic processes;
• nervous system disorders, stress, depression;
• vitamin deficiency (especially A and E), lack of nutrients.

The appearance of the nail can be a sign of all the processes occurring in the body for at least six months. It is during this time period that the nail plate is renewed.

If you carefully monitor your condition and what factors led to the appearance of white spots or stripes on your nails, it will not be difficult to determine which body functions have been impaired.

Separately, we should highlight a fungal infection, in which, in addition to white spots, nails become brittle, their shape and thickness change, and ingrowth, peeling and destruction can be observed. At the first symptoms of leukonychia, it is necessary first of all to exclude the presence of the fungus by taking samples.

The appearance of white spots is favored by the habit of biting nails. It contributes to dysfunction of the nail matrix, which is responsible for the growth and formation of the plate. Subsequently, the nail cells do not mature completely, keratinization is disrupted and white spots appear.

Changing nail color

Yellow nails

Usually they talk about a fungal infection or psoriasis. Also, yellowing of nails can have the following reasons:

• frequent use of nail polish;
• lymphedema is a chronic condition that causes swelling of the skin;
• bronchiectasis is a chronic irreversible lung disease;
• sinusitis - inflammation of the mucous membrane of the paranasal sinuses);
• thyroiditis - inflammation of the thyroid gland;
• tuberculosis is a dangerous infection of the lungs and other organs of the body;
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin) due to liver disease;
• certain drugs such as mepacrine or carotene;
• chronic paronychia is a purulent inflammation of the periungual fold.

Black and green nail color

- green nail syndrome or onychia pseudomonas. This is a bacterial nail disease caused by the proliferation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the thickness of the nail and under it. The highest probability of bacterial infection is in flaky, loose nails that peel off easily. The infection can be treated by applying antibiotic eye drops under the nails or soaking the affected nails in an antiseptic solution or vinegar.

Gray nail color

may be caused by medications such as antimalarials or minocycline.

Brown nails

occur with thyroid diseases, pregnancy, exhaustion, and also occur in people who often use nail polish.

Red or yellow dot under the nail

may be a sign of psoriasis. Sometimes it seems that there is a drop of oil or a red-pink speck under the nail.

Half white, half brown nails

(at the tips) occur in renal failure, when the kidneys stop working normally. The reason for this change in nail color is not entirely clear, but one theory is that kidney failure causes changes in blood chemistry that stimulate the release of melanin (skin pigment) into the nail bed. It is also possible that kidney failure causes an increase in the number of small blood vessels under the nails that show through the nail plate. It is estimated that up to 40% of people with kidney failure have “two-tone” nails. This coloring of nails may be associated with AIDS or a course of chemotherapy.

White nails.

If most of the nail is white, but the nail sits tightly in the nail bed, the most likely cause is either a fungal infection or a reduction in blood flow to the nail bed, the so-called. "Terry's nails"

Typically, Terry's nails are white with reddish or dark tips, which can indicate a variety of medical conditions, including the following:

Folk signs of “blooming nails”

Unlike modern doctors, our grandmothers considered the appearance of white spots on the nails (or “blooming nails,” as they called it) a good omen. For those who experienced failures and troubles in life, the formation of spots promised changes for the better, a solution to all problems. Lonely people were predicted to soon find their other half, and sick people were predicted to recover. If there were a lot of stains, this meant prosperity, financial well-being.

But the most popular interpretation of this phenomenon was the receipt of a gift in the near future, the purchase of a new thing. Representatives of the fair sex even cut the tips of such nails to bring the desired event closer.

Particular attention was drawn to the simultaneous appearance of spots on three fingers of one hand. It was believed that such a person would henceforth have good luck in everything. He could safely take on any endeavor.

But there were also negative interpretations. Thus, the appearance of three spots on the nails of different hands did not bode well. This meant the approach of a “dark streak”, failure in work and other matters, and called for nothing to be done, but simply to wait out the unfavorable period. Spots that over time acquired a yellowish tint indicated impending financial difficulties. And those that were immediately yellow or brownish predicted family troubles, conflicts and illnesses.

However, in most cases, “blooming nails” was seen as something good and encouraged people to expect changes for the better from life.

Many continue to believe in such signs today. However, today doctors are far from being so optimistic about “blooming nails” and consider it not a sign of healing from ailments, but, on the contrary, the acquisition of such. And if you discover a similar phenomenon in yourself, it is recommended not to wait for surprises, but to consult a specialist.

Causes of infection

There are several main causes of infection. Knowing them, you can reduce the risk of getting the disease. No one can give a 100% guarantee of protection. Still, the fungus is a contagious disease, so there is a high chance of catching it accidentally.

The first reason is weak or weakened immunity. When the body lacks strength or is under the influence of any infection, its protective barriers do not perform their functions at full capacity. As a result, it is very easy to get nail fungus. To avoid this situation, you need to periodically take vitamins that increase the body's protective functions. It is not recommended to choose a multivitamin complex on your own; it is better to first consult with your doctor.

The second reason is a warm and humid environment. Particularly relevant for residents of cities with high humidity and high levels of precipitation. Due to the frequent contact of the soles of the feet with wet roads, puddles, etc., an ideal environment is created for the development of parasitic bacteria. To protect yourself, you need to thoroughly dry your shoes after walking, and also do not walk for a long time in the same socks, tights or knee socks. It is worth abandoning synthetic hosiery in favor of cotton materials or microfiber. Such materials “breathe” - that is, they provide the skin with the required amount of oxygen. This prevents the growth of bacteria.

The third reason is of aesthetic origin. Girls and women suffer because of it. The fact is that in manicure and pedicure salons such a service as extensions is in demand. Ladies, wanting to be beautiful, but not having strong enough and long nails, get nail extensions done. If the procedure is carried out once or twice every six months, then it will not cause any harm to health. But if you resort to extensions every month, this will have a detrimental effect on the condition of the nail plate. It will become thinner, and microbes can easily penetrate into and under it.

Also, close attention should be paid to the hygiene of the manicurist and pedicurist. It is necessary to check that it works with sterile instruments that have been cleaned according to established rules. The master must work exclusively with gloves. Before the procedure, he must treat his hands with a disinfectant solution. The place where the pedicure is performed must also be clean. After each client, it is necessary to wipe the surfaces of the table or stand with alcohol-containing products.

But the most dangerous fungus is the one caused by living spores. This is what is called onychomycosis. Spores can remain in a passive, “sleepy” state, and then quickly awaken. Spores are usually infected in public places associated with water:

• swimming pools;
• baths;
• water parks;
• saunas;
• massage rooms with showers.

In public places where the same equipment and shoes are expected to be used by different people, there is also a high risk of infection. Such establishments include rental centers (skis, skates, rollerblades), gyms, and entertainment centers (bowling, trampoline rooms).

Diagnostic methods

It is easy to determine the presence of leukonychia; just examine your nails. It is more difficult to answer the question of why white spots appear on the nails, to determine those disorders in the body that caused the destruction of the structure of the nail plates.

Diagnosis by nails is a traditional method of oriental medicine. Chinese healers are confident that the fingers contain energy channels that are responsible for the functioning of all organs and systems.

Therefore, all disturbances in the normal functioning of the body are immediately reflected on the surface of the nails. If a person is completely healthy, his nails have a pinkish tint, they are even, smooth and regular in shape.

If white spots appear on the nails, the reasons can be varied. Therefore, first of all, you should be examined by a dermatologist, who, if necessary, will recommend visiting a gastroenterologist, cardiologist, urologist or other specialized specialists who will prescribe various tests and studies.

To determine the presence or absence of certain macro- and microelements in the body, you may need to submit a piece of nail to the laboratory. It is necessary to exclude the spread of the fungus - for this you will need to make a scraping and visit a mycologist.

It should be noted that leukonychia is similar to May's stripes - a manifestation of poisoning and onychomycosis - a fungal infection typical of HIV patients. Therefore, at the initial stage of diagnosis, it is important to exclude the presence of these two diseases.

Interesting information about what diseases can be diagnosed by nails can be obtained by watching the video:

Causes of infection

There are several main causes of infection. Knowing them, you can reduce the risk of getting the disease. No one can give a 100% guarantee of protection. Still, the fungus is a contagious disease, so there is a high chance of catching it accidentally.

The first reason is weak or weakened immunity. When the body lacks strength or is under the influence of any infection, its protective barriers do not perform their functions at full capacity. As a result, it is very easy to get nail fungus. To avoid this situation, you need to periodically take vitamins that increase the body's protective functions. It is not recommended to choose a multivitamin complex on your own; it is better to first consult with your doctor.

The second reason is a warm and humid environment. Particularly relevant for residents of cities with high humidity and high levels of precipitation. Due to the frequent contact of the soles of the feet with wet roads, puddles, etc., an ideal environment is created for the development of parasitic bacteria. To protect yourself, you need to thoroughly dry your shoes after walking, and also do not walk for a long time in the same socks, tights or knee socks. It is worth abandoning synthetic hosiery in favor of cotton materials or microfiber. Such materials “breathe” - that is, they provide the skin with the required amount of oxygen. This prevents the growth of bacteria.

The third reason is of aesthetic origin. Girls and women suffer because of it. The fact is that in manicure and pedicure salons such a service as extensions is in demand. Ladies, wanting to be beautiful, but not having strong enough and long nails, get nail extensions done. If the procedure is carried out once or twice every six months, then it will not cause any harm to health. But if you resort to extensions every month, this will have a detrimental effect on the condition of the nail plate. It will become thinner, and microbes can easily penetrate into and under it.

Also, close attention should be paid to the hygiene of the manicurist and pedicurist. It is necessary to check that it works with sterile instruments that have been cleaned according to established rules. The master must work exclusively with gloves. Before the procedure, he must treat his hands with a disinfectant solution. The place where the pedicure is performed must also be clean. After each client, it is necessary to wipe the surfaces of the table or stand with alcohol-containing products.

But the most dangerous fungus is the one caused by living spores. This is what is called onychomycosis. Spores can remain in a passive, “sleepy” state, and then quickly awaken. Spores are usually infected in public places associated with water:

• swimming pools;
• baths;
• water parks;
• saunas;
• massage rooms with showers.

In public places where the same equipment and shoes are expected to be used by different people, there is also a high risk of infection. Such establishments include rental centers (skis, skates, rollerblades), gyms, and entertainment centers (bowling, trampoline rooms).

Treatment of white spots on nails

For treatment to be effective, it is important that the underlying cause of its occurrence is correctly identified. In most cases, leukonychia disappears as soon as the underlying disease that caused it is cured.

For pinpoint spots that were caused by a nail injury, treatment as such is not required. You just need to take good care of your nails and do a manicure carefully. The same applies to chemical exposure - in the future you should use protective gloves before carrying out household work, and use special creams.

If the cause of the appearance of white spots is a fungus, then long-term drug treatment under the supervision of a doctor will be required.

Along with the treatment of the underlying disease that led to leukonychia, it is recommended to take complexes of vitamins and minerals to saturate the body with the necessary nutrients, as well as adhere to several general rules:

• do not overload the body, observe the work and rest schedule, do not forget about proper sleep;
• pay more attention to your mental health and the state of the nervous system, avoid stressful situations;
• review your diet, make it more balanced, rich in protein foods, as well as fruits and vegetables.

A patient with leukonychia may need to undergo a number of cosmetic procedures using professional nail care products.

Treatment of leukonychia

Of course, treatment is not aimed at eliminating white spots as such, but at combating the disease that causes the appearance of leukonychia. Internal treatment is prescribed exclusively by a doctor. Once the cause is eliminated, the stain will simply grow back and a healthy nail will appear in its place.

The fungus also requires special both internal and external therapy. If the disease is detected in the early stages, you can lubricate your nails with tea tree essential oil. This oil is excellent at fighting fungus. However, if the disease is already advanced, you should not self-medicate.

In case of mechanical damage, there is no point in treating nails. As soon as the plate grows back, leukonychia will disappear on its own. To generally improve the condition of damaged nails, general strengthening baths are suitable, recipes for which can be found below. The same can be attributed to improper manicure. In the future, take care to improve the procedure technique or change the specialist.

General health activities

If you find white spots on your nails, the first thing you need to do is slightly adjust your regime: pay due attention to sleep and rest, get rid of all stress and eliminate the causes of fatigue, organize the most calm environment for yourself. Never neglect nutrition

You should never neglect nutrition.

1. Eliminate coffee, black and green tea from your menu. Give preference to pure water or herbal teas.
2. Avoid alcoholic beverages in any quantity.
3. Study the issue of proper nutrition and give up everything unhealthy: sausages, sausages, fast food, processed foods, etc.
4. Make sure your menu contains a balanced amount of fats, proteins, carbohydrates, as well as vitamins and minerals.
5. Eat as many fresh vegetables and fruits as possible.
6. Increase the amount of fish and seafood to 5 times a week and reduce your meat consumption to 1-2 times a week.
7. Eat plenty of greens.
8. Have snacks with nuts and dried fruits.
9. Be sure to eat grains, bran and legumes.
10. Provide your body with healthy vegetable fats: cold-pressed unrefined vegetable oils, nuts, avocados.
11. All foods containing large amounts of iron are good for nails: buckwheat, apples, dried apricots.

In the off-season, it may be a good idea to take a vitamin complex. It is best if your doctor can help you choose it.

Folk recipes

In addition to supporting the body from the inside, it is very important to carry out health-improving activities outside. Massage of the limbs has a good effect on nails: this procedure helps to disperse the blood, improve blood supply, and therefore nutrition of the nail

You can go to a beauty salon for this procedure. There they will also help you choose cosmetics and procedures that restore the nail plate. During treatment, refrain from manicures or pedicures and nail coverings.

If you can’t go to salons, you can always carry out effective home procedures.

Baths

Read:

• How to prepare a foot bath for foot fungus
• Soda bath

Rubbing and applications

In addition to baths, you can rub nutritional compounds into your nails.

The meaning of white stripes

In addition to the location of the marks on the plate, their type matters - vertical or horizontal. A person wondering about the meaning of white stripes should pay attention to how they are located. It is impossible to understand this at the initial stage, but at the moment when a line begins to form from the point, its location becomes clear, which means a diagnosis can be made.

Transverse

Transverse white lines are symptoms of serious diseases. Having discovered such a deficiency on your arms or legs, you should pay attention to your well-being and diagnose the following organs:

• kidneys,
• heart,
• vessels,
• stomach,
• intestines,
• pancreas.

In addition, it is recommended to take a general blood test and conduct laboratory tests to determine the level of vitamins and microelements in the body. If you have problems with your psychological and emotional state, you should consult a psychotherapist. A large number of transverse stripes indicates depression or nervous tension.

Longitudinal

Longitudinal lines are sometimes safer than transverse ones. Often they indicate age-related changes in the epidermis. It appears most clearly on the nails, but cannot be treated. As a rule, this reason occurs in old age.

Some diseases also appear as longitudinal lines:

• dermatological diseases change not only the skin, but also the nail plate; it is necessary to carefully examine the fingers and toes,
• problems with blood circulation, in which case nutrients simply do not reach the nails,
• hypertension, characterized by pressure surges,
• arthritis, which affects not only the joints and connective tissue, but also the nails,
• lack of vitamin B12,
• diseases of the nervous system, characterized by thickening of the grooves in the middle of the nail,
• stomach ulcer, pancreatic disease. Nutrients are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, and if there are problems, the metabolism will be disrupted.

The first thing you should pay attention to when you notice white stripes on your nails is internal sensations and ailments. In most cases, reviewing your diet will help. This will solve problems with the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, maintaining proper nutrition helps replenish nutrients in the body.