What causes white nails?

Apr 20, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wan

Introduction

White discoloration of the nails may result from prolonged exposure to chemicals such as nitrite or sodium chloride solution, which is a normal physiological phenomenon. It could also be caused by pathological factors such as anemia or onychomycosis. When due to pathological causes, it is important to promptly visit a hospital for relevant examinations to determine the exact underlying cause and receive targeted treatment as advised by a physician.

Nail whitening may be caused by normal physiological factors, or it could result from pathological conditions such as anemia or onychomycosis. A detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Normal Physiological Factors

Prolonged exposure to chemicals, such as nitrite or sodium chloride solutions, may damage the nail plate and alter nail color. This is considered a normal physiological phenomenon.

2. Pathological Factors

1) Anemia
Anemia refers to insufficient red blood cells in the peripheral blood. When the body lacks adequate red blood cells, tissues and organs cannot receive sufficient oxygen, leading to reduced microcirculatory blood flow in extremities. This can result in pale nail beds and cold limbs.

2) Onychomycosis
This condition is primarily caused by dermatophytes infecting the nail bed and nail plate. These fungi release various enzymes that break down the nail structure, causing the nail to thicken, turn white, and eventually detach.

In addition to the above causes, conditions such as psoriasis should also be considered. If pathological factors are suspected, it is important to promptly visit a hospital for appropriate examinations to determine the exact cause and receive targeted treatment under medical guidance.

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