Calcium Defiency??

[sullybabe2000]

So I know I keep asking all these health questions, but I swear I'm not a hypochondriac!

Anyways...I have these white spots on my nails and I read online that they are usually due to damage to the nail bed. However, a friend of mine told me that if you have numerous white spots (I have a total of 6 on 4 different finger nails & one is pretty large) it is a sign of calcium deficiency. Is that true?

Thanks for any help!!

[Maria RN]

Hi sullybabe. I've read that it's not a sign of calcium deficiency. The medical term for white discoloration appearing on the nails is Leukonychia. There are four different types of this condition, the most common form is called true leukonychia which is characterized by small white spots on the nails which ma be caused by an injury to the base of the nail. The spots usually disappear after 8 months- the length of time required for the complete regrowth of nails. If the spots are present on most of the nails for a longer time period, zinc deficiency is considered. Other types of leukonychia can be caused by liver cirrhosis or chemotherapy. Wearing artificial nails may cause white spots from the trauma to the nail bed. If you want to find out the exact causes of the lukonycheia in your case, then you should consult your doctor. Tests to determine liver function may be ordered. Zinc supplements may be prescribed if you have zinc deficiency.