Are vertical ridges and white spots on nails a sign of disease?

White spots on the nails may be caused by trauma, calcium deficiency, nail dystrophy, fungal nail infection, anemia, etc. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive appropriate treatment after identifying the underlying cause. In daily life, engaging in moderate physical exercise such as running, swimming, jumping rope, or cycling can help improve bodily functions and enhance immunity.

Whether vertical nail ridges indicate a Helicobacter pylori infection depends on the test results. If vertical lines are present only on the nails, without gastrointestinal discomfort or noticeable bad breath, and the test result is negative, it indicates no Helicobacter pylori infection. However, if the carbon-13 urea breath test or carbon-14 breath test yields a positive result, it indicates the presence of a Helicobacter pylori infection.

Psoriasis is usually triggered by infection. Infections may lead to abnormal proliferation of the skin and nails, forming tiny pustules that, upon rupture, leave white spots on the nails. It is generally accompanied by symptoms such as joint pain, erythematous scaly skin lesions, etc. It is recommended to use medications such as methotrexate tablets, tacalcitol ointment, and calcipotriol ointment under the guidance of a physician for treatment.

In general, using Cornus officinalis (Shanzhuyu) may be somewhat helpful for vertical ridges on the fingernails. The appearance of vertical nail ridges is sometimes related to factors such as blood deficiency, qi deficiency, or malnutrition, and Cornus officinalis can help nourish the blood and yin, thereby potentially improving these symptoms. Before using Cornus officinalis, it is recommended to consult a qualified traditional Chinese medicine practitioner to ensure safe medication use.

White spots on the nails can be caused by age-related factors, trauma, malnutrition, nail fungus (onychomycosis), or parasitic infections. As people age, the moisture content in the nail plate decreases, and the keratin layer becomes more fragile, leading to small cracks that visually appear as white spots. It is recommended to maintain proper nail trimming, avoid contact with chemicals, and regularly apply nail oil.

Vertical ridges on the nails may be associated with aging, genetic factors, nail fungus (onychomycosis), iron deficiency anemia, psoriasis, and other conditions. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional. In daily life, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding frequent exposure to chemicals, regularly trimming nails, and applying nail moisturizing cream can help prevent the development of vertical nail ridges.

In most cases, white spots on the nails may result from natural growth processes, trauma, malnutrition, nail fungus, or parasitic infections. In daily life, adjusting dietary habits by increasing intake of protein, vitamins, and trace elements—such as eating more eggs, carrots, lean pork, fish, and apples—and maintaining good personal hygiene can help prevent infections.

In general, white spots on the nails in 14-year-olds may be caused by factors such as age, minor trauma, nutritional deficiencies, psoriasis, or chronic gastritis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Additionally, wash hands regularly before meals and after using the toilet to maintain hand hygiene and reduce the risk of infection from pathogens such as bacteria and fungi.