Why Are There White Spots on My Nails?

Contrary to popular opinion, white spots on nails are not a sign of a vitamin deficiency, according to Dr. Andrew Weil at Drweil.com. Though spots usually appear after minor injuries, nails that are half or all white could signal a health problem that you should have your doctor assess.

Leukonychia

• Most commonly, white spots on your fingernails, also called leukonychia, are a result of past injury to the area, according to Weil. They take six weeks from the time of injury to appear and will grow out on their own over the course of about eight months.

Allergies

• If you are allergic to a nail product, such as a certain kind of polish, Weil says you may see white spots on your nails. These spots will also grow out on their own.

Infection

• Weil states that a mild infection can also cause white spots on your fingernails. The infection could be fungal, in which case you should see your doctor for treatment.

Anemia

• White or pale nail beds could be a symptom of anemia, a condition characterized by a reduced number of red blood cells.

Disease

• If your nails are half white, this could signal kidney disease, while nails that are completely white could be symptomatic of liver disease. However, Weil and Dr. Christine Laine at the American College of Physicians point out that white nails will not likely be the first or only symptom of these serious diseases.