White spots on nails are a sign of these 5 health problems

Effects of manicure

Manicuring can damage the skin underneath the nail, which in turn causes white spots on the nails. Actions that cause this condition are using sharp tools that rub the nails or manicure too often.

Fungal infections

Another common cause of white spots on your nails is a fungal infection. This condition occurs when bacteria from the environment enter through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin. Some measures to prevent fungal infections are:

– Wash your feet and hands thoroughly and dry them completely

– Change socks every day

– Make sure to wear shoes that fit your feet, not too tight, ventilated

– Ensure the quality and cleanliness of the nail salon and nail tools

– Do not go barefoot in public spaces

Some signs of a fungal infection include nails that crack, grow thicker, and turn yellow or brown

How to treat: consult a doctor for prescription drugs and treatment in severe cases.

Mineral deficiency

Some experts believe that white spots on the nails can be a sign that the body is deficient in some minerals such as calcium and zinc. Other signs of a mineral deficiency are:

– Dry skin

– Muscle cramps

– Fragile fingernails

– Rough hair

– Poor memory

– Hair loss

– More frequent infections

Reduce appetite

– Diarrhea

– Irritability

Certain drugs

Certain medications can disrupt nail growth or damage your nail bed, causing white spots to appear. The most typical drugs include

– Chemotherapy drugs for cancer

Retinoids (used to treat acne)

Certain antibiotics (containing sulfonamides, cloxacillin)

– Lithium

Anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine

Antifungal drugs such as itraconazole

Certain blood pressure medications such as metoprolol

These medications can also cause symptoms such as delayed nail growth, thinning of nails, and brittle nails

How to treat it: There is no cure for drug-induced nail spots, but if you feel the need, you can talk to your doctor about changing to another medication.

Heavy metal poisoning

In rare cases, white spots can be a sign that you have been exposed to heavy metals such as thallium and arsenic – conditions that occur when eating contaminated food or inhaling toxins in the air. industrial smoke.

Some of the symptoms of arsenic poisoning are:

– Headache

– Sleepy

– Confusion

– Diarrhea

– Vomiting

– Fever

– Low blood pressure

Some of the symptoms of thallium poisoning are:

– Nausea

– Vomiting

– Frequent sleepiness

– Hair loss

– Nerve pain

– Convulsions

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.

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