Are white fingernails and ankle swelling signs of vitamin deficiency? (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Are white fingernails and ankle swelling signs of vitamin deficiency?

5:17pm Thursday 5th February 2009 in Health By Doctor Tom Smith

Q. My fingernails have lost their normal pink colour and turned white. I’ve also noticed my feet and ankles have swollen and I don’t have as much energy as I used to. I’m 22 years old and female. Am I deficient in some vitamin, and if so, what should I take?

A. These are NOT the signs of vitamin or mineral deficiency. The combination of white nails and swollen legs suggests that you may have a serious kidney problem. It’s called nephrotic syndrome, and is easily diagnosed from finding a lot of albumin in your urine. You must see your doctor as a matter of urgency. Don’t try to treat yourself.