What Are the Main Causes of Vertical Ridges on Nails?

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.

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.

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.

1. Trauma: Repeatedly wearing long artificial nails, prolonged soaking in water, or frequent friction from external substances can affect nail growth; 2. Vitamin deficiency: A lack of vitamin A in the body may lead to rough, dry skin, night blindness, or corneal dryness and softening, often accompanied by vertical ridges on the nails; 3. Excessive fatigue: This can impair nail development.

Vertical nail ridges may be caused by factors such as excessive fatigue, malnutrition, nail trauma, fungal nail infection (onychomycosis), or psoriasis. Patients should promptly visit a正规 hospital for proper evaluation and receive symptomatic treatment based on their specific condition. In daily life, it is recommended that patients maintain a balanced diet, ensure adequate sleep, and avoid overexertion. If any discomfort or symptoms occur, patients should seek medical attention promptly.

White spots on nails are known as leukonychia, which generally has no connection to diseases. In most cases, these white spots result from damage to the nail root. Vertical ridges on nails are commonly caused by aging; as people get older, nails tend to become thinner, more prone to peeling, and develop vertical lines. These ridges may affect appearance but are not harmful to health. However, if accompanied by other symptoms, medical attention should be sought promptly.