Ridges on your fingernails can be caused by various factors, often depending on whether the ridges run vertically or horizontally.
Types of Nail Ridges and Their Causes
Vertical Ridges (Longitudinal Ridges)
- These run from the cuticle to the tip of the nail and are commonly associated with aging, as the nail's cell turnover slows down over time
- Hormonal changes, such as those during menopause, can lead to vertical ridges due to decreased keratin production and hormonal imbalance
- Nutritional deficiencies, especially in vitamins and minerals like iron, folic acid (vitamin B9), zinc, and protein, can cause vertical ridges
- Minor trauma to the nail matrix from harsh manicures, frequent exposure to water or detergents, or chemical damage from nail products (acetone, acrylics) can also contribute
- Certain medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, and rare diseases like amyloidosis and Witkop syndrome may cause vertical ridges
Horizontal Ridges (Transverse Ridges or Beau's Lines)
- These run across the nail and often indicate temporary disruption of nail growth due to systemic issues or trauma to the nail matrix
- Causes include fever, viral illnesses (measles, mumps), medication reactions (chemotherapy), and systemic diseases such as diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, lung disease, and parathyroid disorders
- Inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can also cause horizontal ridges by affecting the nail matrix
- Nail trauma or injury, including picking at nails or cuticles, can lead to these ridges
Additional Factors
- Aging naturally leads to more pronounced ridges due to changes in nail thickness and brittleness
- Chronic nail biting or picking can cause permanent ridges due to scarring
- Systemic diseases affecting circulation or metabolism (heart, liver, kidney diseases) can impair nail growth and cause ridges
In summary, ridges on fingernails are often a normal sign of aging or minor trauma but can also indicate nutritional deficiencies or underlying health conditions. If ridges appear suddenly, worsen, or are accompanied by other symptoms, it may be advisable to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation
