According to experts, most cases of white lines appearing on fingernails or toenails are not dangerous, but sometimes this can also be a warning sign that the body is deficient in nutrients or has a potential medical condition.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, small white spots or lines on the nails often appear after minor impacts on the nail foundation that the patient does not notice. This condition is quite common and usually disappears on its own as the nails grow longer.
However, if white lines appear on many nails or stretch abnormally, the cause may be related to zinc deficiency, protein deficiency, or nutritional disorders. Some rare cases are also related to liver disease, kidney disease, or metabolic problems in the body.
Experts warn that changes in fingernails and toenails sometimes reflect the overall health condition. If nails show additional signs of brittleness, thickening, discoloration or are accompanied by fatigue, weight loss, and swelling of limbs, patients should see a doctor for a more thorough examination.
In addition to pathological factors, frequent nail polishing, manicure, or exposure to cleaning chemicals can also weaken nails and easily cause white lines to appear.
To keep nails healthy, experts recommend eating enough nutrients, especially protein, iron and zinc; and at the same time limiting strong impacts on fingernails and toenails. People should also not arbitrarily use functional foods if the cause of nutrient deficiency has not been clearly identified.
If the white lines are long or accompanied by other abnormalities on the nail, early examination will help promptly detect related health problems.
