Ridges on fingernails can be more than just a cosmetic concern—they may provide clues about your overall health. While some ridges are harmless and simply a result of aging, others could signal underlying nutritional deficiencies, systemic conditions, or external factors. Understanding what these ridges mean can help you identify potential health issues early and take appropriate action. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about nail ridges and what they might indicate.
What Are Nail Ridges?
Nail ridges are grooves, lines, or uneven textures that run vertically or horizontally across the surface of your fingernails or toenails. These ridges can vary in appearance:
- Vertical Ridges: Run from the base of the nail to the tip and are often a natural part of aging.
- Horizontal Ridges (Beau’s Lines): Run side to side and may indicate an interruption in nail growth due to illness, injury, or other factors.
Common Causes of Nail Ridges
1. Aging
- Vertical ridges are very common as we grow older. They’re typically harmless and occur due to changes in nail cell turnover and hydration levels.
2. Nutritional Deficiencies
