Doctors often examine the nails when diagnosing patients. The presence of certain nail conditions, such as white lines in the nails, can give doctors an idea of what may be happening inside the body. Nail abnormalities may also indicate the presence of systemic disease, according to Dr. Robert S. Fawcett, in an article appearing the journal "American Family Physician." Although the presence of a nail disorder does not automatically point to an underlying condition, doctors use the condition of the nails as a clue in their search for answers.
Appearance
White lines normally appear on the nails horizontally, but they can sometimes appear vertically or in circular spots. Lines may affect one, a few or all of the nails. They may appear singularly within a single nail or multiple times along the length of the nail.
Causes
White lines on the nails, also called leukonychia, are usually associated with trauma to the finger or nail bed. Injury to the base of the nail may not be evident when the event occurs. However, as the nail grows out, the injury appears as a white line or spot on the nail that moves with the nail growth. This type of injury can occur anytime, but is often associated with manicures.
When the lines affect almost all of the nails at the same spot, the condition is called Beau's lines. Beau's lines are caused by any illness that disrupts nail growth. Mees' lines -- a condition affecting several nails in which the white lines move along with the nail growth -- may indicate arsenic poisoning. Pairs of lines that disappear when the nail bed is depressed indicate Muehrcke's lines, a vascular condition affecting the nail bed. Muehrcke's lines do not move with nail growth.
Medical Attention
When lines appear sporadically or on one or a few nails, medical attention is usually not necessary. When lines affect more than one nail or several nails close to each other and the pattern is distinct and similar among all of the nails, you should seek medical attention.
Treatment
White lines caused by injury require no treatment. The lines grow out along with the nail and eventually disappear. Nail conditions caused by an underlying condition grow out and correct themselves after treatment of the underlying condition.
Prevention
To prevent white lines, do not use your nails as tools to pick, pry or loosen things at work or around the house. Try not to bang or catch the ends of your fingers on furniture or within doors. Do not push down into the nail bed while manicuring. Pay attention to your health, eat a balanced diet that includes protein, and talk to your doctor about any changes in your health or nails.
Member Comments