Do you have ridges like this on your nails? (Nail Ridges) - Let's talk about the causes and solutions

Have you ever looked at your fingernails or toenails and noticed that they have little lines on them? Maybe you're a little worried when you see these lines that run from top to bottom or across. You might think, "Is this some kind of disease?" But most of the time, this is not something to worry about. However, sometimes this can be a small signal that gives us some health problem inside our body. So today, let's talk about all about these lines on our nails.

What do stripes on nails really mean?

Simply put, nail ridges are lines or small pits that appear on the surface of your fingernails or toenails. These can be seen in two main types.

1. Vertical Ridges: These are ridges that run from the tip of the nail to the tip, that is, from top to bottom.

2. Horizontal Ridges: These are lines that run across the nail, from one side to the other.

The cause of these streaks can sometimes be very simple. But sometimes they can also be a sign of a health condition or an injury to the nail. Let's take a closer look at that.

What are the main causes of these lines?

The causes of nail streaks vary depending on the type of streak. Let's break it down to understand it clearly.

Do vitamin deficiencies also cause nail streaks?

Yes, definitely. Some nutritional deficiencies can show up in your nails.

• Zinc deficiency: Zinc deficiency can cause the horizontal lines (Beau's Lines) and white spots on the nails that we discussed earlier.
• Iron deficiency: Iron deficiency can cause vertical ridges. It can also cause a condition called "spoon nails" (koilonychia) . This is when the nail becomes indented in the middle, looking like a spoon. You may be able to hold a drop of water on the nail.

What are the treatments for this?

The first and most important thing is to see your doctor to find out exactly what is causing these lines. Don't go for treatment without knowing the cause.

• Treating the underlying cause: In many cases, the nails will return to normal once the underlying condition causing the stripes is treated. For example, when you start taking medication for your thyroid condition, the nail problems associated with it will gradually go away.
• Correcting nutritional deficiencies: If you have an iron or zinc deficiency, you can overcome this condition by taking the appropriate vitamin supplements as directed by your doctor .
• Be patient: The most important thing is that it takes several months for your nails to fully grow back. So don't expect results right away after starting treatment. It will take some time to see a difference.

Imagine that you have a bad cold and then you develop horizontal lines on your nails. Those lines gradually rise as the nail grows, and when you trim your nails, they disappear. However, if you keep getting new horizontal lines (Beau's Lines), it means that something is continuously interfering with your nail growth. In such a case, you should definitely tell a doctor.

What things can you do at home?

After your doctor has examined you and confirmed that there is no serious health cause for these streaks, you can do some of these things at home to improve the appearance of your nails.

• Moisturize: Apply a good moisturizer to your nails and cuticles daily. If your skin is dry, apply a good hand cream to your hands before going to bed at night and wear cotton gloves. You can do the same for your feet. However, if you have diabetes or neuropathy , consult your doctor before doing anything to your feet.
• Stop biting your nails: Avoid biting your nails and cutting the skin around your nails.
• Take a break from artificial nail polish: If you continue to use gel manicures or artificial nails, stop using them for a while and give your nails a break.
• Cut your nails correctly: Cut your fingernails in a curved shape and your toenails in a straight line.
• Gently buff your nails: If your nails are very rough, you can gently buff the surface with a nail buffer. But don't do it too hard, as it can thin the nail.
• Wear gloves: Wear gloves when doing household chores, especially when using chemicals (household cleaners).

When is it best to see a doctor?

If you notice new lines on your nails, don't ignore them. It's always best to get checked out by a doctor. It may not require treatment, but we can't say for sure until we know the cause. If you notice any of the following changes in your nails, be sure to see a doctor.

Nails, nail ridges, nail diseases, health symptoms, vitamin deficiencies, nail ridges Sinhala, Beau's lines