Ridges in Fingernails
Ridges in fingernails are a common issue, and many people notice these lines or grooves at some point. Usually harmless and often appearing with age, these ridges can sometimes point to health conditions or nutrient deficiencies. Both vertical and horizontal ridges can form, and they may look different depending on their cause.
Vertical ridges, which run from the tip of the nail to the cuticle, usually come with aging and generally are not a cause for concern. Horizontal ridges, also called Beau’s lines, can signal underlying health problems like illness, stress, or a lack of certain vitamins. Recognizing what causes these nail changes and knowing when to see a doctor can be important.
Definition Of Symptom
Ridges in fingernails are raised lines or grooves that run either along or across the nail surface. They can be vertical ridges (running from the cuticle to the nail tip) or horizontal ridges (running side to side). Vertical ridges, also called longitudinal ridges, are the most common type.
Many people notice these as thin, raised lines running from the base to the tip of the nail. Most of the time, these ridges are harmless and become more visible with age. Horizontal ridges are less common and may be more concerning. These lines, known as Beau’s lines, go across the nail from one side to the other.
They can sometimes signal that the body has experienced stress, severe illness, or an underlying health problem. Common symptoms with nail ridges include:
- Visible raised or indented lines.
- Changes in nail texture.
- Grooves running vertically or horizontally.
Ridges in fingernails can feel rough or uneven to the touch. Sometimes the color of the nail might also change near the ridges. Ridges may appear on one or several nails at the same time.
Possible Causes/Diseases Condition
Many different health conditions can cause ridges in fingernails.
- Normal Aging: Vertical ridges often show up as people grow older. These are usually harmless and part of the normal aging process.
- Skin Disorders: Problems like psoriasis and eczema can change the nails, causing ridges, pitting, or discoloration. People with a history of these skin problems often see nail changes.
- Fungal Infections: Fungal infections can make nails thicker, yellow, and ridged. These infections are more likely if nails are often wet or exposed to damp environments.
- Onychorrhexis: This condition makes nails brittle, split, or ridged. It is more common in older adults but can also link to other health concerns.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: Not getting enough nutrients—such as iron, zinc, or biotin—can change how nails look and feel. A diet low in vitamins and minerals can make ridges and other nail problems more likely.
- Systemic or Underlying Diseases: Some diseases, such as thyroid disorders, liver disease, or kidney disease, can link to nail ridges. Sudden changes in the nails should not be ignored, especially if other symptoms are present.
- Serious Conditions: Although rare, melanoma (a type of skin cancer) can affect the nail bed and cause dark streaks or changes in the nails. Any new, dark, or irregular ridges should be checked by a doctor.
Quick Reference Table
| Cause/Condition | Possible Clues in Nails |
|---|---|
| Aging | Fine, vertical ridges |
| Psoriasis/Eczema | Pitting, thickening, ridges |
| Fungal Infection | Thick, yellow, crumbly nails |
| Onychorrhexis | Brittle, split, ridged nails |
| Nutrient Deficiency | Grooves, color changes |
| Systemic Disease | Sudden or wide ridges |
| Melanoma | Dark or unusual streaks |
| Liver Disease | White nails, broad ridges |
Other Non-Disease Causes
Not all fingernail ridges come from disease. Everyday habits and outside factors can also change the nails. Nail trauma often causes ridges. Slamming a finger, hitting a nail, or even frequent typing can injure the nail. These injuries can leave lines or grooves as the nail grows out.
Brittle nails increase the chance of ridges. Overusing nail polish removers or washing hands often removes natural oils, leading to dryness and more noticeable ridges. Nail biting and picking at the nails or cuticles can damage the nail beds. This damage often causes irregular growth and ridges.
Some manicures can also play a part. Rough filing, harsh chemicals, or applying fake nails can weaken the nail surface. Repeated use of acrylic nails or gel polish sometimes leads to temporary or permanent changes, including ridges.
How It Causes The Symptom
Ridges in fingernails often start at the nail matrix, the tissue under the base of the nail where new nail cells grow. Damage or changes to the matrix can create ridges. The body makes nails from keratin, a strong protein. If the body cannot make keratin well, nails may grow out with lines or grooves. Both vertical and horizontal ridges can form this way.
When the body lacks certain nutrients, nail growth can slow down. For example, low levels of iron or biotin can result in weaker nail growth. The body needs these nutrients to create smooth, strong nails. Common causes linked to nail ridges:
- Aging
- Injury to the nail matrix
- Nutrient deficiencies (like iron or biotin)
- Thyroid disease
- Fungal infections
When the body is sick or stressed, nail growth can temporarily slow down. This sometimes leads to horizontal ridges, called Beau’s lines. During illness, the nail matrix may pause, and a groove forms. Diseases like diabetes or thyroid problems can also change how the body makes keratin, affecting nail texture and causing ridges. A simple table shows how issues affect the nail:
| Cause | How It Affects Nails |
|---|---|
| Low biotin | Weak, brittle, ridged nails |
| Iron deficiency | Thin, grooved nails |
| Matrix injury | Irregular nail growth, ridges |
| Illness/stress | Beau’s lines (horizontal) |
Nails show these signs as a way the body signals health changes.
Possible Complications
If an underlying health problem causes ridges in fingernails, ignoring them might delay finding diseases such as thyroid disorders, diabetes, or kidney conditions. Horizontal ridges, also known as Beau’s lines, can sometimes signal more serious issues, like poor nutrition or past illnesses. They may also appear after significant stress or injury. Some complications that may happen include:
- Nail infections (paronychia)
- Thickened or brittle nails
- Nail discoloration
- Pain or swelling around the nails
If infections around the nail bed go untreated, they can spread. This can cause pain, pus, or permanent changes to the shape of the nail. In rare cases, severe nail changes might point to autoimmune diseases, such as psoriasis or lupus. These health problems can affect other parts of the body, not just the nails.
| Possible Complication | Signs To Watch For |
|---|---|
| Infection | Redness, swelling, pus |
| Permanent nail changes | Constant ridges, thickening |
| Systemic illnesses | Fatigue, joint pain |
When To Seek Medical Attention
While many nail ridges are harmless, sometimes you should see a doctor. See a doctor if:
- Ridges appear suddenly
- Nails change color, shape, or thickness
- You feel pain, swelling, or redness around the nail
- Nails become very brittle or start splitting
- You notice horizontal ridges (side-to-side)
Here is a simple table to help decide:
| Symptom | Action |
|---|---|
| Gradual vertical ridges | Usually normal |
| Sudden new ridges | See a doctor |
| Pain or redness | See a doctor |
| Nails changing color | See a doctor |
| Horizontal ridges | See a doctor |
Nail ridges along with other nail changes could point to an underlying health issue like a vitamin shortage, thyroid problem, or skin condition. If you have health conditions such as diabetes or thyroid disease, watch your nails closely and tell your doctor about any new changes.
