WHITE marks on your fingernails can appear from time to time — and often leave you wondering why.
Here’s the lowdown on what causes the mystery spots…
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What does a white mark on your fingernail mean?
White marks on fingernails are often thought to be caused by calcium deficiency.
However, this is an old wives’ tail — the real reason is usually less serious.
The small specks on the nail bed are medically known as punctate leukonychia.
More often than not, they are caused by trauma to the nail, which can be as simple as excessive tapping or chewing.
What causes the white marks on fingernails?
Punctate leukonychia start at the bottom of the nail and move up them as it grows.
By the time you can see a white mark, you will have probably forgotten what caused it.
Sometimes, the reaction can be caused by something like suffering an allergic reaction to nail varnish.
But if your whole nail turns white, it can be more serious and you should visit your doctor.
Completely white nails can be caused by deadly conditions like liver cirrhosis, kidney failure or heart disease, according to the NHS.
If the white marks fall in lines, it can also be a sign of low levels of protein in the blood.
How do I get rid of the white marks on fingernails?
There are currently no treatments for punctate leukonychia.
The marks naturally grow out over time if caused by an impact injury.
However, if they are being caused by something other than trauma, a doctor will need to identify the cause in order to treat it separately.