November 13th, 2011
Ridges on Fingernails
ridges on the nails nail is a common problem, but not a serious health problem. ridges on fingernails are of two types-horizontal and vertical, and can be indicative of an underlying medical condition.
although vertical ridges are not considered a serious problem, horizontal ridges must be taken seriously. vertical ridges on finger nails are common and extend from the base of the cuticle of fingernail until the tip of the nail. these ridges are becoming more important as the years pass and not particularly indicate any underlying medical condition or disease. but if you look at horizontal ridges on fingernails, then these are indicative of serious health conditions.
horizontal ridges
horizontal ridges on fingernails, if observed, may require medical treatment. these are of different types and each indicates a different medical condition. the following are the types of horizontal ridges.
beau lines: these horizontal ridges on the nail christmas decals are characterized by linear depressions and the cells that were obscured. they indicate conditions such as trauma, malnutrition, a problem in the functions of the metabolism, diseases of the body prior to chemotherapy, acute, etc. these ridges are caused due to an interruption of protein synthesis by the fingernail.
muerhcke lines: these ridges are caused due to disruption in pigmentation and indicate lack of albumin caused due to kidney or liver disease, chemotherapy and malnutrition.
transverse ridges: these nail ridges indicate a history of a serious illness.
aldrich mee lines: lines that appear discolored, after an episode of poisoning by arsenic poisoning or other heavy materials. it can also indicate a serious kidney disease that the person may suffer.
terry’s nails: this type of nail ridges are characterized by a white nail plate and the tip of the nail with a horizontal band.it indicates diabetes, hiv infection, kidney disease or liver cirrhosis.
what causes nail ridges
ridges on fingernails are caused mostly due to malabsorption and malnutrition. the lack of essential vitamins hinders the process of formation of keratin nails and this can cause ridges on fingernails. another common cause of nail ridges can be attributed to lack of sufficient moisture in nails or nail too dry and trauma caused to the nail matrix. this ensures that even the nails become fragile. other causes of ridges on the nails include respiratory diseases, autoimmune diseases, skin diseases such as psoriasis and eczema, exposure to toxic substances such as arsenic, etc.
tips for avoiding and treating nail ridges
always wear gloves while dealing with any kind of chemical solutions or hard materials.
stay well hydrated by drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water everyday.
a balanced and nutritious diet that is rich in vitamins.
if necessary, also consume supplements. vitamin supplements and zinc supplements will help.
buff the nails with an emery board and wait for your nails to grow. ridges may heal with time, so be patient.
use a moisturising lotion or moisturizer and nail cuticle keep well hydrated and moisturised.
in case of appearance of horizontal ridges, consult a physician immediately and get yourself treated.
get a manicure nail did occasionally and indulge in some nail care can help you avoid the ridges on fingernails and will also help to improve overall health fingernail.
follow the tips above to healthy nails and avoid problems like other nail nail fungus, white spots, etc.