Lines on the nails can form for many reasons, ranging from skin conditions to nutritional deficiencies. Here\u2019s what you should know about this issue.<\/p>\n
Taking care of your nails isn\u2019t only about appearance\u2014it also matters for your overall health. Changes in your nails can sometimes signal underlying problems in the body.<\/p>\n
One of the most common changes is the appearance of ridges. While they\u2019re often harmless, they can sometimes point to systemic illnesses or a lack of certain nutrients.<\/p>\n
Research suggests that ridges on fingernails may offer more useful information than those on toenails. Understanding why these lines appear can help you decide how to address them.<\/p>\n
Nail ridges can develop due to various factors, including skin conditions like eczema or atopic dermatitis, as well as deficiencies in protein, calcium, zinc, or vitamin A. The direction and depth of the lines can provide clues about their cause.<\/p>\n
These ridges run from the base to the tip of the nail. They are common with aging, as cell turnover slows down and dead cells accumulate.<\/p>\n
However, if vertical ridges appear along with changes in color or texture, it could signal an underlying issue. For instance, a condition called trachyonychia can cause nails to become rough, brittle, and discolored. Vertical ridges may also be seen in people with iron deficiency anemia, sometimes accompanied by nails that curve inward like a spoon.<\/p>\n
Horizontal ridges, known as Beau\u2019s lines, can be more concerning. These grooves may temporarily stop nail growth and are often linked to more serious health conditions.<\/p>\n
They have been associated with kidney disease and, when present on multiple nails, may indicate illnesses such as mumps, thyroid disorders, diabetes, or syphilis. They can also appear in people undergoing chemotherapy.<\/p>\n
In addition, injuries to the nail can cause red or brown spots underneath. It\u2019s important not to confuse these marks with signs of more serious conditions like melanoma or endocarditis\u2014especially if the discoloration is dark brown, black, or deep red.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"