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Living with HIV can bring some noticeable changes to your nails. Here's a quick rundown of what to look out for:

1. Clubbing
The fingertips and nail beds look enlarged and rounded. This has been found in a significant number of people being treated for HIV.

2. Melanonychia
A black or brown stripe running up and down the Show Full Answer

Living with HIV can bring some noticeable changes to your nails. Here's a quick rundown of what to look out for:

1. Clubbing
The fingertips and nail beds look enlarged and rounded. This has been found in a significant number of people being treated for HIV.

2. Melanonychia
A black or brown stripe running up and down the nail. This is more common in people with darker skin and those taking the antiretroviral medication zidovudine (Retrovir).

3. Anolunula
The small white half-moon shapes at the base of your nails (lunula) become invisible. This has been linked to CD4 count and how long someone has had HIV.

4. Onychomycosis
A fungal nail infection that turns nails white or discolored. Because HIV affects the immune system, people living with HIV are more prone to this type of infection. It's worth mentioning any nail changes to your doctor, even if they don't hurt or seem serious. Nails can actually be helpful little clues about your overall health and how well your current treatment is working. When in doubt, flag it — better safe than sorry!

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

4 Ways HIV May Affect Your Nails