There are various alterations of the body that can be related to some type of disease; however, it could also happen that some bodily changes are present that call for attention but are not related to important pathologies that require immediate attention.
Numerous people can suffer from white spots on their nails, be it stripes, dots, lines or even have a large part of it with this color. This condition is known by specialists as leukonychia and is not usually related to any major disease; however, it is essential to consult a doctor to rule out other possibilities.
If you are one of the people with this alteration and you wonder why I have a white toenail , we advise you to continue reading the following FastlyHealarticle to obtain more information on the subject.
Causes of white spots on nails
The pathology known as leukonychia, which often manifests itself as white spots on the nails, is usually due to blows or injuries in this area, for example due to an incorrectly performed manicure. However, the total whitening of the nail or the presence of transverse or longitudinal white lines can be related to exposure to certain chemicals or diseases.
Despite the above, it is believed that white spots on the nails also have to do with a deficiency of vitamins and minerals , such as calcium or zinc, but this has not been confirmed by any study. Although it may still be an infection in the nail or in the sector that consequently causes this discoloration.
There are two types of leukonychia, the first is characterized by the movement of white spots on the nail as it grows, so it will disappear at some point or can be easily cut.
The second type of this alteration are those that are found in people who believe that they have a white nail but in reality it is a stain of this color on the skin that is below it. Therefore, this transformation will not move and will remain fixed despite the passage of several days. These cases are usually due to signs of anemia or can mean the presence of significant pathologies in the kidneys, heart or be caused by diabetes or cirrhosis.
It is because of everything detailed that, although white spots on the toenails are not usually related to serious health conditions, it is essential to go to a specialist to rule out this possibility.
Diagnosis of having a white toenail
The first diagnosis should be made by the specialist only by observing the nail. It can refer to various factors depending on whether the nail is completely white, if it only has points, transverse or longitudinal stripes of this color. Likewise, the doctor may observe various alterations such as the shape of the nails or different signs and symptoms that may be associated with the cause of leukonychia.
If the practitioner suspects a bacterial or fungal nail infection, he or she may take some samples for expert examination under a microscope. On the other hand, if the doctor believes that there may be a systemic pathology that causes this alteration in the toes, it is necessary that the patient undergoes the studies indicated by the professional, for example, a blood test .
Treatment of white toenails or leukonychia
Treatment for those who have a white toenail will depend on the underlying cause of this alteration. For this reason, if it is a question of systemic disorders, a specific treatment is required to improve the pathology and, at the same time, eliminate the symptoms that it is causing, such as nails with white marks .
In the event that the presence of white spots on one or more toenails is considered by the doctor as something unimportant, that is, there is no relevant effect on the state of health, it is possible that no treatment because they will disappear over time, you have to wait for the nail to grow . On the other hand, if the diagnosis indicates that it is due to bacterial infections, the consumption of antibiotics prescribed by the specialist is necessary, while if it is due to a fungal infection, the treatment will have to be with topical antifungal agents . Of course, as part of the treatment and basic care of the nails and feet, it is necessary to maintain good hygiene of the feet and then dry them well.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Why do I have a white toenail , we recommend that you enter our Skin, hair and nails category .
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.