White discoloration of the index finger nail
May 15, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
White discoloration of the fingernail, particularly the index finger, is usually caused by conditions such as fungal nail infection (onychomycosis), zinc deficiency, or anemia. Patients should visit a正规 hospital and, under the guidance of a physician, receive appropriate treatment based on their specific condition. This disorder is a relatively stubborn infectious disease; anti-inflammatory treatment requires a prolonged duration, and concurrent use of topical antifungal medications is also necessary to support therapy.
White discoloration of the index finger nail is usually caused by conditions such as onychomycosis, zinc deficiency, or anemia. It is recommended that patients visit a正规 hospital and, under medical guidance, receive appropriate treatment based on their specific condition. Details are as follows:
1. Onychomycosis
This is a relatively stubborn infectious disease. The anti-inflammatory treatment process takes a long time, and topical antifungal medications are often needed to support therapy. After fungal infection, the nail may become cloudy and thickened, lose its luster, and turn white. Patients should seek treatment at a正规 hospital, where doctors may prescribe oral medications such as itraconazole capsules or terbinafine hydrochloride tablets.
2. Zinc Deficiency
If a patient lacks the trace element zinc, it may lead to nail metabolic abnormalities, causing the nails to become rough, dull, and whitish. Under medical supervision, patients can take supplements such as zinc gluconate oral solution or zinc sulfate oral solution.
3. Anemia
White fingernails—nails appearing pale or white—may also be due to anemia. This occurs because of weakened immunity and poor blood circulation. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may be treated with medications such as polysaccharide-iron complex capsules or folic acid tablets.
In addition to the above, white nails could also result from neurasthenia, chronic hepatitis B, leukemia, or other factors. Therefore, patients are strongly advised to visit a正规 hospital for proper diagnosis and timely treatment under a physician's guidance to avoid delays in managing the underlying condition.
