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COVID-19 has dramatically impacted our lives for over a year, resulting in millions of fatalities worldwide. Survivors are grappling with significant long-term health repercussions, such as lung and heart damage. New symptoms and after-effects emerge daily, and the virus has proven to be elusive, with many individuals remaining asymptomatic. Recently, some have begun to associate visible changes in their nails with past COVID-19 infections.
After battling the virus, numerous COVID survivors have reported noticeable alterations in their fingernails, and sometimes their toenails, prompting discussions about a phenomenon dubbed “COVID Nails” by U.K. epidemiologist Tim Spector on Twitter. This condition is characterized by horizontal ridges, known as Beau’s Lines. However, before jumping to conclusions, there are important details to consider.
Understanding Beau’s Lines
When someone falls ill, their body can undergo abrupt changes, often manifesting in the skin, hair, and nails. For instance, a child may develop a rash during a strep infection, or lose nails following Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease. Various illnesses, including COVID-19, can lead to temporary or even permanent hair loss. Such bodily responses can also be triggered by medications. Beau’s Lines fall into this category of physical reactions.
Dr. Aiden Wells, a senior scholar at a health security center, explained that systemic diseases can disrupt nail growth, resulting in visible abnormalities. Any significant illness that induces a high fever can lead to Beau’s Lines. This condition can also appear as an after-effect of chemotherapy.
How Beau’s Lines Form
Beau’s Lines are formed following a temporary halt in nail growth. Dermatologist Dr. Mia Hartwell noted that instances of Beau’s Lines linked to COVID-19 are uncommon. Because the interruption occurs at the nail matrix, or base of the nail, it may take time to become apparent. Although the exact science behind why nails temporarily stop growing is unknown, it is believed to stem from a shock to the body’s system. If you notice ridges from Beau’s Lines, the cause likely occurred at least a month prior. These lines are generally harmless and tend to grow out over time, indicating that the body has experienced a systemic change.
Nail Abnormalities in COVID-19 Patients
Dr. Clara Thompson, the director of dermatology at a major hospital, mentioned that various nail abnormalities have been observed in COVID-19 patients, including skin discoloration known as pernio or chilblains (commonly referred to as COVID toes), which can form under the nails. Other conditions include splinter hemorrhages, appearing as small red or purple spots linked to tiny blood clots, alongside brittle and peeling nails. However, these symptoms can also arise from other viral infections. Dr. Thompson emphasized that Beau’s Lines and similar symptoms are not definitive indicators of a past COVID-19 infection; the only reliable method to confirm this is through an antibody test, which is a simple blood draw with results typically available within three to five days. Additionally, donating blood through the American Red Cross can offer a free antibody test.
What To Do If You Notice Beau’s Lines
If you find yourself with Beau’s Lines or COVID nails, there isn’t much that can be done. Experts suggest treating nails with Beau’s Lines as you would any normal nails, and applying a couple of coats of nude polish can help mask the appearance of the lines if you’re concerned about aesthetics. The ridges are harmless and will eventually grow out. Fingernails typically grow about a tenth of a millimeter each day, which means it could take around six months for them to completely grow out—patience is key, especially during these challenging times.
Further Reading
For more information on home insemination, check out our other blog post here. You can also find valuable insights from Make A Mom on the topic. If you’re interested in understanding the IVF process better, this resource is an excellent guide.
Summary
COVID-19 survivors are noticing nail changes, specifically Beau’s Lines, which are horizontal ridges indicating a disruption in nail growth. These lines can result from various illnesses and are typically harmless, signaling that the body has experienced a systemic change. While some abnormalities have been linked to COVID-19, they are not definitive indicators of past infection. The only reliable way to confirm a COVID-19 infection is through an antibody test.