Who knew nails could gossip? If you’re living with long COVID, your fingernails might be spilling secrets about what’s happening inside your body. From mysterious half-moons disappearing to strange ridges popping up, these seemingly small changes can actually provide big clues about your health. I started noticing changes in my nails not long after the first infection, and after the second infection, some of these became quite visible.
The Long COVID Nail Drama: What to Watch For
1. Beau’s Lines: The Nail Trenches
Picture deep horizontal grooves across your nails, like tiny war scars. These lines show where your body temporarily paused nail growth—like it hit pause during a battle with COVID-19. One friend called them their “COVID calendar” because each line marked a rough patch. The good news? As your nails grow out, these trenches gradually move up and vanish.
2. Mees’ Lines: Smooth Criminal Stripes
These white horizontal lines look like they were painted on with an invisible brush. Unlike Beau’s lines, they’re smooth, not indented, and signal that something interrupted your nail’s groove—literally. Think of them as your body’s white flags after a health battle. They typically show up weeks after infection, so your nails might be waving tiny surrender flags.
3. Red Half-Moon Sign: The Mystery Marker
If you spot a red crescent at the base of your nail (where it’s usually whitish), it might feel ominous. In reality, it’s a rare but intriguing symptom that could indicate inflammation or micro-blood clots. Thankfully, they usually fade on their own with time.
Vertical Ridges: COVID or Just Age?
Let’s face it: vertical ridges are like wrinkles for your nails. They often deepen with age but can become more pronounced after a long COVID battle. These ridges might signal nutritional deficiencies or ongoing stress on your body. Think of them as your nails whispering, “More vitamins, please!” Some autoimmune diseases might also trigger them.
Disappearing Lunulae: Where Did the Half-Moons Go?
Ah, the lunula—the little whitish half-moon at the base of your nail. If it’s disappeared or shrunk, your body might be hinting at poor circulation or systemic stress. My lunulae went on holiday with the first infection, and some came back over time. Others never returned.
Diagnostic Tools: Can Nails Help Pinpoint Long COVID?
If your nails are raising red flags, doctors might recommend tests like capillaroscopy. This simple, non-invasive procedure involves examining the tiny blood vessels (capillaries) under the skin near the base of your nails. It can reveal microvascular damage or poor blood flow—common issues in long COVID. It’s like putting your nail beds under a microscope to see what’s really going on beneath the surface. Think of it as CSI: Nail Edition!
What These Changes Mean for You
Your nails aren’t just for Instagram pics—they’re like tiny health detectives. These changes reflect broader issues such as inflammation, poor circulation, or even nutritional gaps. While they’re sometimes temporary, tracking them can help you (and your doctor) understand your long COVID journey better.
Nail Care Tips for Long COVID Warriors
- Keep a Nail Diary: Notice new lines or discolourations? Write them down! It’s like keeping a health journal but way more fashionable.
- Feed Your Nails: Silica, biotin, zinc, and iron are your new best friends. Think leafy greens, nuts, and eggs.
- Give Them a Break: Skip the nail polish occasionally to let your natural nails breathe—and so you can actually see what’s going on.
- Consult the Pros: Persistent or worsening changes deserve a doctor’s attention. They’re not just nail problems; they’re health clues.
The Takeaway: Listen to Your Nails
In the world of long COVID, your nails might seem like minor players, but they’re worth paying attention to. They could be the first to whisper (or shout!) that something’s up. So, next time you spot a strange ridge or missing lunula, don’t ignore it—your body’s sending you a memo in Morse code. Decoding it might just help you feel a bit more in control of this wild long COVID ride.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on personal experiences and research. It does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance regarding your health.
Long Covid Journey 