What does it mean when a 14-year-old has white spots on their fingernails?
Sep 24, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, white spots on the nails in 14-year-olds may be caused by factors such as age, minor trauma, nutritional deficiencies, psoriasis, or chronic gastritis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Additionally, wash hands regularly before meals and after using the toilet to maintain hand hygiene and reduce the risk of infection from pathogens such as bacteria and fungi.
Under normal circumstances, white spots on the nails of 14-year-olds may be caused by age-related factors, minor trauma, nutritional deficiencies, psoriasis, or chronic gastritis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Age-related factors
At age 14, individuals are in adolescence, during which rapid nail growth may lead to uneven deposition of keratin protein, resulting in white spots. No special treatment is usually required. Maintaining good nail hygiene, regular trimming, and avoiding excessive cutting or nail injury are sufficient.
2. Minor trauma
Fourteen-year-olds tend to be very active, and minor, unintentional bumps or pressure in daily life may cause tiny blood vessels beneath the nail bed to rupture. As the blood is absorbed, newly formed keratinocytes covering this area lack pigment, leading to the appearance of white spots. Keep nails clean and avoid further injury.
3. Nutritional deficiency
Adolescents experience rapid physical development, and insufficient intake of vitamins, minerals, or protein in the diet may result in thin, brittle nails, or even white spots. A balanced diet with adequate nutrients is recommended.
4. Psoriasis
Psoriasis may be triggered by genetic, infectious, or immune factors. If a 14-year-old has this condition, it may cause inflammatory reactions in the nail bed, disrupting normal nail growth and leading to white spots or pits. Symptoms may include skin itching, redness, and swelling. Follow a doctor's advice regarding medications such as Tripterygium wilfordii polyglycoside tablets, acitretin capsules, or cyclosporine capsules for treatment.
5. Chronic gastritis
Chronic gastritis may result from improper diet, infection, or other factors. This condition can impair the body’s absorption and utilization of nutrients, depriving the nails of essential nutrients for healthy growth, thus causing white spots. Symptoms such as stomach pain and bloating may also occur. Under medical supervision, medications such as clarithromycin tablets, amoxicillin capsules, or rabeprazole sodium enteric-coated tablets may be prescribed to relieve symptoms.
In daily life, ensure hands are washed before meals and after using the toilet to maintain hand hygiene and reduce the risk of infections caused by bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens. Additionally, encourage children to participate in outdoor activities or physical exercise to strengthen their overall health.
