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What Are 'COVID Nails' and How Can You Identify Them


What Are 'COVID Nails' and How Can You Identify Them
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Given that it’s only been around 18 months since we began learning about COVID-19, there are some symptoms and after-effects that are still being detected. One among them pertains to your nails, known as ‘COVID Nails’. 

Experts have highlighted this relatively unknown symptom, saying that the nails can show some signs or markings after a person has recovered from the coronavirus. This phenomenon was first spotted by British epidemiologist Tim Spector, who noted a “clear line” on the nail bed among people that have recovered from the virus. 

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This is being considered as one of the side effects of a COVID-19 infection wherein nails are recovering after the infection, hence showing a clear line. The observations shared by Spector struck a chord with a lot of people on the internet, with many saying they recognized this sign on their body weeks or months after making a full recovery.

Image source: HealthlineAlthough the term COVID Nails is new, the condition wherein a clear line is shown on the nail bed is commonly known as ‘Beau's Lines’. Although it is presently unknown as to what’s causing Beau’s lines to be visible among some COVID recoveries, some experts believe that the stress and illness brought along by the infection could be the reason. 

How long does it take for COVID Nails to show?

It could be a month or some weeks following a successful recovery from the infection. Since it’s still early days, there’s no consensus on when this can show up. In addition to appearing on fingernails, COVID Nails can also be spotted on the toe, experts said. 

ReadCOVID-19: Here's What You Should Do If You Have Symptoms But RT-PCR Is Negative

Does this impact everyone? 

While some individuals have seen this after recovering from the virus, experts say that some people may not see it at all or it may not be prominent enough to be identified by the user.   

What causes Beau’s Lines to show? 

The changes in indentations on the nail bed can occur when the person has recovered from a severe infection, or has comorbidities including but not limited to uncontrolled diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Should you consult a doctor if you see signs of COVID Nails?

As a general rule, it is always feasible to consult your family doctor whenever you witness any COVID-related symptom on the body. However, some experts say that COVID Nails may not be extremely concerning and that it is a sign that your body is on course for recovery after fighting off the deadly infection. 

Also readCM Thackeray Urges Parents Not To Be Negligent About COVID Symptoms In Children

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