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Doctor Explains What It Means If You Have Ridges on Your Nails – Step-by-Step Guide to Understanding the Clues

Our body is an amazing communicator. One of the most subtle yet revealing areas to look at for insights into your health is your fingernails. While most of us think of ridges on the nails as cosmetic annoyances, medical experts say they can be important signs of underlying issues.

In this article, a doctor breaks down what those ridges on your nails really mean—and how to interpret them step by step.

What Are Nail Ridges?

Nail ridges are raised lines that run either vertically (from cuticle to tip) or horizontally (from side to side) on the nail surface. While they are often harmless, certain types and patterns of ridges can indicate nutrient deficiencies, skin conditions, systemic illness, or even chronic stress.

Types of Ridges and What They Might Indicate

1. Vertical Ridges (Longitudinal Ridges)

What They Look Like:
Fine lines that run from the base of your nail (cuticle) to the tip.

Doctor’s Explanation:
Vertical ridges are the most common type and are usually a normal part of aging. As you get older, the body’s ability to regenerate cells slows down, including in the nail matrix. However, if these ridges are accompanied by other changes such as brittleness, discoloration, or slow growth, they could signal:

Nutrient deficiencies (e.g., iron, magnesium, B12)
Dehydration of the nail bed
Overuse of harsh chemicals (e.g., nail polish remover, detergents)

2. Horizontal Ridges (Beau’s Lines)

What They Look Like:
Deep lines or grooves that run across the nail, from one side to the other.

Doctor’s Explanation:
Beau’s lines can indicate a temporary interruption in nail growth due to physical or emotional stress. When the body faces a trauma or systemic illness, nail production can pause, leaving a groove behind as the nail continues to grow.

Potential Causes Include:

High fever from infections (e.g., COVID-19, flu, pneumonia)
Major surgery
Severe stress
Uncontrolled diabetes
Zinc deficiency

3. Pitted Ridges or Surface Dents

What They Look Like:
Small, pinpoint depressions on the nail surface, sometimes accompanied by ridging.

Doctor’s Explanation:
This may be associated with autoimmune conditions like:

Psoriasis
Alopecia areata
Eczema

These conditions affect the skin and often manifest through the nails.

Step-by-Step Guide to Understanding and Addressing Nail Ridges

Step 1: Observe Your Nails Regularly

Examine your nails in natural light.
Look for color changes, thickness, texture, and the direction of ridges.
Take photos weekly if you want to monitor progression or healing.