What Causes Whitening Under the Fingernails?

In most cases, whitening of the fingernails is caused by conditions such as anemia, fungal infection, or calcium deficiency during childhood. Specific causes are outlined below:

1. Anemia: Chronic anemia leads to insufficient or slowed peripheral blood circulation, resulting in nail whitening. Patients with mild anemia may benefit from consuming iron-rich foods such as liver and longan. Patients with severe anemia should seek medical evaluation and treatment under a physician’s guidance.

2. Fungal infection: When the nail bed or nail plate becomes infected with fungi, nails may turn white and also become thickened or yellowed. Oral terbinafine tablets may be prescribed for treatment.

3. Calcium deficiency during childhood: Nail whitening may also stem from childhood calcium deficiency, which can cause additional nail changes including loss of luster and surface irregularities (e.g., ridges or pitting). Calcium-iron-zinc oral solution may be recommended for supplementation.

In daily life, maintain a balanced diet, avoid staying up late, adhere to regular sleep-wake cycles, and ensure adequate rest. Adopt a light, nutritious diet and engage in regular physical activity to enhance immune function. Since numerous factors can cause nail whitening, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate diagnostic testing and treatment under professional guidance.