What It Means If You Have Ridges on Your Fingernails – A Detailed Explanation
Fingernails can reveal a lot about your overall health, and any changes in their appearance may be a cause for concern. One common, yet often overlooked, condition is the appearance of ridges on your fingernails. While ridges on nails are generally harmless, they can sometimes indicate underlying health issues that may need attention. In this article, we’ll explore what it means if you have ridges on your fingernails, the possible causes behind them, and what steps you can take to address the issue.
Types of Ridges on Fingernails
Before delving into the possible causes of ridges, it’s important to understand the different types of ridges that can form on your nails.
1. Vertical Ridges (Lengthwise Ridges)
Vertical ridges run from the tip of the nail to the cuticle, and they are one of the most common types of ridges. They tend to become more prominent with age and are often harmless.
2. Horizontal Ridges (Beau’s Lines)
Horizontal ridges, or Beau’s lines, are grooves that run across the nail from side to side. These ridges can appear suddenly and are usually a sign of temporary disruption to the nail growth cycle, often due to illness, trauma, or stress.
Causes of Vertical Ridges on Fingernails
