What is it?
Leukonychia is a medical term for white spots appearing on the fingernails usually due to dehydration, fungal infection, deficiency of potassium & zinc, nail trauma, eczema or the psoriasis.
Sometimes it is harmless, while in other cases it may be a sign of an underlying medical problem such as nutritional deficiency. Occasionally, white spots on nails may indicate an allergic reaction to a product used on the nail, such as nail polish, hardener, or polish remover.
The occurrence of white spots or patches under the nails due to the presence of air bubbles between the nail and its bed, it is usually caused by:
- an injury to the base of the nail
- -occurs when there is renal failure
- fungal infection
- hereditary
- organ failure
- vitamin deficiency and stress
- lack of zinc and protein
Symptoms :
- White spots on the fingernail: small white lines on the nails and change in color of the nails, that eventually become totally white.
- The nails become colorless and brittle losing the original texture.
- Person affected with leukonychia may also have problems like deafness, gingivitis, and hyperkeratosis
Natural treatment :
- Include Proteins, vitamins and a lot of zinc in your diet
- avoid changing your nail polish to often
Types:
1. Leukonychia totalis
- Whitening of the entire nail.
- Maybe caused by organ failure, protein malabsorption or a genetic condition.
2.Leukonychia partialis
- Whitening of parts of the nail.
3.Leukonychia striata
- Whitening or discoloration of the nail in bands that run parallel the nail
- It may be caused by cirrhosis, chemotherapy or physical injury to the nail
4.Leukonychia punctata
- Small white spots appear on the nails and it’s the most common form of leukonychia.
- Cause is injury to the base of the nail.
Treatment:
If you want strong & healthy nails, be sure to include foods rich in vitamins A, B, C, D, E and iron, calcium, potassium, zinc, sulphur, as well as the essential fatty acids. Multivitamin supplements can also be taken to treat a vitamin deficiency. Make a conscious effort to consume fresh fruits and green vegetables (spinach, broccoli, etc.), nuts, beans, fish and eggs, among other nail-friendly foods.
Ensure that you consume enough proteins as it is the main building material for nails. Foods that are high in protein include beef, pork, poultry and fish, chickpeas, tofu, milk, peanuts, baked beans and lentils. Dehydration affects our nails badly, therefore, remind yourself to drink about 3-4 liters of water daily and keep yourself well hydrated.
No comments:
Post a Comment