Why are children's nails white?

The normal nail color should be close to the skin color but a little whiter, but if the nails appear in other colors, it means that there are problems with the body, big or small. For example, black or purple nails may be caused by obstructed blood circulation, while white nails may be caused by anemia and malnutrition. After finding out the cause of white nails in children, targeted diet and washing can be used to supplement the necessary nutrients to improve the condition.

Why do children's nails turn white?

1. Caused by anemia

Nails are located at the ends of the human limbs. They are like a mirror, reflecting the condition of the human body's peripheral circulation. If a child's nails are often white, it may mean that there is not enough blood in the body, which may be a sign of anemia, cold blood, or poor blood circulation. It is best for parents to take their children to the hospital for a blood test to clarify the situation so that timely treatment can be given.

2. Malnutrition

Nails can reflect the nutritional status of the human body. If a child's nails turn white or have white spots, it may be caused by malnutrition and lack of vitamins and trace elements in the body. If the nails do not get sufficient nutritional supplements, the nails will turn white, the surface will be rough, uneven, and dull.

3. Caused by fungal infection

Fungal nail infection is commonly known as onychomycosis. The early symptoms of onychomycosis are white nails, which often start from the root of the nail. Small white spots appear on the surface of the nail plate, which may gradually expand and the entire nail turns white. It may also cause the nail plate to soften and sink. This situation requires timely treatment to avoid infection.

4. Symptoms of physical illness

If a child's nails suddenly turn white, it is often an emergency such as blood loss, shock, or a chronic disease such as hookworm disease, gastrointestinal bleeding, and cor pulmonale. If the nails are as white as frosted glass, it is a characteristic of cirrhosis of the liver.

How to prevent white nails in children

1. First of all, we should emphasize the prevention and treatment of the causes of anemia. For anemia caused by chronic blood loss, the causes of bleeding should be corrected.

3. Fortified foods should be added to infants and premature babies in a timely manner and they should be fed properly.

4. Labor protection should be strengthened for production workers who are exposed to harmful substances.

5. Do not abuse drugs in daily life and strictly follow the indications.