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What trace element deficiency causes nail indentation?

Sep 22, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Qingyun
Introduction
Nail indentation may be caused by deficiencies in trace elements such as iron and zinc, or due to lack of calcium, vitamin A, protein, etc. It could also result from trauma, nail fungus (onychomycosis), and other causes. Without a clear diagnosis, patients are advised to seek timely medical attention and receive appropriate treatment. Additionally, they should consume more vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins and avoid staying up late.

Generally speaking, nail indentations may be caused by deficiencies in trace elements such as iron and zinc, or due to lack of calcium, vitamin A, protein, and other nutrients. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Iron

Severe iron deficiency can lead to anemia, resulting in inadequate nutrient supply to the nails and making them prone to deformities. Patients should promptly follow medical advice and take medications such as polysaccharide-iron complex capsules, compound ferrous sulfate folic acid tablets, or succinic acid ferrous granules for treatment.

2. Zinc

Zinc is an essential nutrient for fingernails. Zinc deficiency may cause nail deformation, including nail indentation. Under a doctor's guidance, patients may take medications such as zinc gluconate granules, zinc gluconate oral solution, or compound zinc bromelain granules.

3. Calcium

Calcium is one of the essential nutrients for the body, promoting bone development and preventing osteoporosis. A significant lack of calcium can make nails brittle and lead to nail indentations. It is recommended that patients regularly consume calcium-rich foods such as spinach, soy products, and milk.

4. Vitamin A

A deficiency in vitamin A can interfere with the nail matrix's synthesis of keratin, causing nails to become brittle and uneven. Patients are advised to take supplements such as vitamin AD soft capsules, vitamin A soft capsules, or vitamin AD drops as directed by a physician to improve symptoms.

5. Protein

Nail formation requires adequate protein; deficiency may lead to soft, brittle nails and even nail indentations. Patients can improve symptoms by moderately consuming protein-rich foods such as pork, shrimp, sesame seeds, eggs, milk, lean meat, walnuts, and pork ribs.

In addition, nail indentations may also result from trauma, onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), or other causes. If the underlying condition is unclear, patients should seek timely medical evaluation and receive appropriate treatment. It is also important to consume more vitamin-rich vegetables and fruits and avoid staying up late.


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