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.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here