If you were born in the early 90s you will remember the story of the bird ‘Leke Leke’ who gave children white patches on their fingernails. Once the children spotted the bird flying in groups high up in the sky, they’d run outside and flap their fingers at them singing;
‘Leke Leke bamboo, give me water finger.’
By the way, the real name of these birds are called Cattle Egret and they are not the reason for the white patches that sometimes appear on your fingernail. That is pretty much clear now that we are adults and don’t wave at Leke Leke and still get the white marks. What causes it then?
Causes of White Patches on the Fingernail
The causes range from an injury in the nail, nutrient deficiencies, allergic reaction to fungi infection.
A. Nail Injury
Healthline states that an injury at the base of your fingernail can cause white spots or dots on your nail as it grows. These injuries can occur when you slam your hand against a door or when something heavy falls on it.
B. Nutrient deficiencies
This is usually the most common cause. The lack of zinc and calcium in the body can result in the patch displaying in the finger alongside other symptoms like fatigue, irregular heart rhythms, tingling in the fingers and the likes.
C. Allergic reactions
Due to the acrylic contents and gel in nail polish, hardener, gloss and the like, the nails can react with these white spots. These substances tend to sometimes damage the nails.
D. Fungi infection
There is a common nail fungus called onychomycosis that affects both fingernails and toenails. They can start as little dots, then become flaky, brittle and thicken. The reasons range from old age, diabetes, nail injury, swimming in a public pool, pedicure with bubbling water in a bowl, moist finger and toenails to fixing artificial nails.
Top Flexxzone Picks
- 7 Healthy Plans To Make For 2021
- The Story About A Naija Boy Who Got Depressed
- Is An HourGlass Shape Possible Or Is Just A Myth?
How To Treat White Patches on Fingernails
The treatments depend on what caused the patch or mark in the first place. Some can be ignored and allowed to go away on its own while others need to be treated as they could get worse.
A. Nail Injury
Speaking of marks that can be ignored, nail injuries that leave tiny white patches disappear over time, as the nail grows.
B. Nutrient deficiencies
Eat food that is rich in minerals, iron, calcium, potassium, zinc and magnesium. Examples of food with calcium and zinc are milk, yoghurt, fish, beans, cereals, whole grains, nuts, etc.
C. Allergic reactions
Change your nail polish, gloss and other stuff you’ve been applying to your nails. If the marks persist, stop altogether and if they continue, consult your doctor.
D. Fungi infections
See your doctor. He/she will probably prescribe an antifungal treatment.
See? It had nothing to do with the Leke leke bird. Leave it out of it, your nails is most likely fine and if you’re not convinced, a doctor will help straighten things out.
Hey Flexxer! Now’s the perfect time to open a Flexx account with FCMB, if you haven’t already. It’s a pretty stress-free process and you get access to seamless banking solutions. Wanna get started?
Click HERE!
Leave a Reply