What causes white spots on fingernails?

Fingernails are commonly referred to as the nail plate. In general, white spots appearing on the fingernails may be caused by nail injury, nutritional deficiency, paronychia, onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), or vitiligo. Patients should promptly visit a正规 hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Nail Injury

Physical trauma, pressure, or excessive trimming may damage the nail and lead to the formation of white spots. These spots are usually due to disruption of the keratin layer caused by injury, allowing air and moisture to enter the nail, resulting in white patches on the surface. This condition is typically temporary; as new nail grows in, the white spots gradually disappear.

2. Nutritional Deficiency

Poor nutrition, especially deficiencies in vitamins and minerals, may cause nail abnormalities. For example, lack of nutrients such as zinc, iron, or calcium may make nails brittle or lead to the appearance of white spots. It is recommended to improve nutritional intake to support nail recovery.

3. Paronychia

Paronychia is an inflammation of the soft tissue surrounding the nail, often caused by bacterial infection. It may result in redness, swelling, and pain around the nail, sometimes accompanied by white discharge. In severe cases, white spots on the nail may also appear. Under medical guidance, patients may take oral antibiotics such as cefalexin capsules, amoxicillin capsules, or azithromycin dispersible tablets, which help fight infection and reduce inflammation.

4. Onychomycosis (Nail Fungus)

Onychomycosis is a nail disease caused by fungal infection, commonly leading to nail deformity, shedding, thickening, and discoloration such as white, yellow, or green spots. White spots may represent an early sign of onychomycosis. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as itraconazole capsules, terbinafine hydrochloride cream, or miconazole nitrate cream for treatment.

5. Vitiligo

Vitiligo is a condition in which the immune system attacks melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) in the skin, causing loss of pigmentation and the development of white patches. Although vitiligo typically manifests as white patches on other areas of the skin, it can also affect the nails. Patients may apply topical treatments such as mometasone furoate cream, tacrolimus ointment, or calcipotriol ointment as directed by a physician. In some cases, skin grafting may also be considered.

In daily life, patients should maintain a light diet and avoid spicy or irritating foods such as chili peppers, Sichuan pepper, and garlic.