Ridges on Fingernails

Ridges on Fingernails






Ridges are present on the fingernails either in vertical position or horizontal. It is one of the nail abnormalities that occur due to old-age. In medical terms it is called “Onychorrhexis” which is marked by long lines running vertically on the nails. Aging is one of the important factors that cause ridges on fingernails but it may also occur due to prolonged intake of medications. Ridges are nothing but parallel lines running from the bottom of the finger to the tip or from one side to other. However presence of vertical ridges is not a symptom of any serious issue. Very often, these ridges follow specific pattern. Some people confuse Beau’s lines with ridges which is caused by infection or malnutrition.

Causes :

Old-age is the main reason for the formation of ridges on fingernails. It can also occur due to reduced metabolism, shortage of minerals and certain vital nutrients. Sometimes, ridges are caused due to mal-absorption of nutrients indicating that your nails are not strong. Presence of ridges on fingernails is indicative of poor absorption of nutrients in the body and you can resolve this problem by visiting your doctor.

If the nails are subjected to injury or trauma it can cause ridges.

If the body lacks moisture, then it is indicated in the form of ridges. Living in hot climatic zone can be the cause of dryness which may result in ridges on nails. If you find any sudden changes in nail structure and color it can be due to cardiovascular or circulatory problem. Deficiency of vitamin A can cause nail ridges.

Symptoms :

Long lines run vertically on the fingernails forming ridges and can be seen by close examination of the nails.

Treatment :

Treatment for ridges on fingernails depends on the causative factor. If there are ridges due to lack of moisture, you need to drink plenty of water. For curing dryness, you can massage the nails and apply moisturizing cream on it every day. If the underlying cause is respiratory problem your doctor will take necessary tests for monitoring your heart and lung functions. Nails can change in color and become bluish green if there is heart problem or due to presence of toxic substances like arsenic in blood. It can also change color due to psoriasis and hence treatment lies in identifying the real cause.

Very often, taking nutritious food will improve the condition and reduce the ridges formed on fingernails. In case the ridges are running horizontally, then it can be due to serious health issue of your body. Increasing the intake of vitamins and protein can help you to overcome the vertical ridges on fingernails.

Pictures of Ridges on Fingernails :

Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Ridges on Fingernails

Home Remedies :

Regularly massage the nails with moisturizing lotion or oil to prevent dryness. Drink plenty of water to keep your body well hydrated. You can also try using nail ridge fillers to keep your nails smooth and soft.

Ridges on Fingernails

Ridges on Fingernails

Ridges on Fingernails Causes

Medical problems can be signaled by ridges on the fingernails. These medical problems can include:

• Problem with Circulatory System


• Respiratory disorder


• Thyroid disease


• Iron Deficiency Anemia

Ridges on Fingernails Symptoms

Some are symptoms of ailments that do need attention medically. These deviations in the nails include:

• Discoloration – yellow


• Depressions that run across the nails – Beau’s lines


• Separation of nail from the nail bed


• Pitting of the nail


• White or opaque nails


• Nails that are curled

Ridges on Fingernails Meaning

Nail ridges that are vertical are most common and normally are not the signs of any serious illness. These ridges become more prominent with age and normally do not indicate poor health or a serious medical condition.

Horizontal nail ridges may indicate the presence of some underlying illness or medical condition, although this is not always the case. Horizontal ridges run from one side of the nail lengthwise across to the other side.

One different type of horizontal ridge that can indicate underlying illness is referred to as Beau’s lines. Beau’s lines cause deeply grooved ridges in the nails, horizontal, that might be slightly dark in appearance. There are various causes for these ridges that are distinctive including:

• Previous injury to the nail bed


• Certain medications


• Malnutrition


• Metabolic disorders such as diabetes

Ridges characterized by Beau’s lines develop when growth of the nails is arrested temporarily due to some underlying illness, metabolic problem or nutrition. Any person with Beau’s line ridges that are horizontal needs to see their physician right away.

Ridges on Fingernails Treatment

If you have ridges in the nails and are concerned about them – make an appointment to see your physician to check to see if you have any sort of underlying health problem.

After doing that, below are some ways to help your nail look healthy and great:

• Wear gloves to protect the nails when you are working with chemicals that are dangerous or on manual project such as construction or gardening.


• Wait for the nails to grow out as often the only cure is time. Coat the nails with a protective polish that is clear in order to strengthen them while waiting for the ridges to disappear.


• Buff your nails with an emery board.


• Use a lotion that is hydrating and apply several times each day to strengthen and moisturize the nails. Before going to bed at night, coat your nails with lotion and put on cotton gloves to give the nails a dose of moisture that is intensive while sleeping.


• Take a supplement vitamin that has zinc, B-12 and iron. Many times issues with the nails are due to nutritional deficiencies, so increasing intake of nutrients that are key may help cure the ridges.

No product alone can keep nails healthy. The following guidelines may help to keep your nails looking their very best:

You're reading Ridges on Fingernails posted by minhhai2d, the information is for reference only.

Do not abuse the nails

To prevent damage, do not use fingernails as tools to poke, pry or pick things.

Do not bite nails or pick at the cuticles

These are habits that can damage the nail bed – even a minor cut alongside the nail will allow fungi or bacteria to enter and start an infection.

Keep nails clean and dry

This stops bacteria, fungi or any other organisms from growing underneath the nail. Clean under the nails thoroughly as well as regularly carefully drying the hands and feet after showering or bathing.

Wear gloves of rubber when using soap and water for long periods of time.

Watch for problems

If you have problems with the nails that does not go away on its own or comes with other symptoms or signs, make an appointment to see your doctor.