What causes vertical ridges in fingernails?
Feb 26, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Introduction
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.
In general, vertical ridges on the nails may be caused by factors such as excessive fatigue, malnutrition, nail trauma, onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), or psoriasis. Patients should seek timely medical evaluation at a正规 hospital and receive appropriate treatment based on their specific condition. The details are as follows:
1. Excessive Fatigue
Prolonged hand labor, such as frequent keyboard typing, tool use, or cutting activities, may subject the nails to pressure and friction, leading to the development of vertical ridges. These ridges are usually temporary and the nails can gradually return to normal with adequate rest and recovery.
2. Malnutrition
Nutritional deficiencies, especially lack of essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, B, C, iron, and zinc, may negatively affect nail health. In such cases, vertical ridges may appear, along with symptoms like thinning and brittleness of the nails. Under medical guidance, patients may take supplements such as vitamin A soft capsules, vitamin AD capsules, or live bacterial preparations like Bacillus subtilis bivalent granules to correct the deficiency.
3. Nail Trauma
External injury or pressure to the nail—such as improper clipping or crushing—can cause vertical ridges on the nail surface. These ridges typically appear after the injury and gradually disappear as the nail grows out. Therefore, proper nail care in daily life is usually sufficient.
4. Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection)
Onychomycosis is a nail disorder caused by fungal infection, commonly affecting fingers and toes. It may lead to nail deformity, fragility, discoloration, and the appearance of vertical ridges. As directed by a physician, antifungal medications such as itraconazole capsules, terbinafine hydrochloride cream, or miconazole nitrate cream may be used for treatment. During treatment, maintaining personal hygiene and keeping the affected area clean and dry is important.
5. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that not only affects the skin but may also cause changes in the nails, including vertical ridges, pitting, and layering. Patients should follow medical advice and use topical treatments such as tacalcitol ointment, tazarotene gel, or traditional Chinese medicine ointments like Yinxie Ling ointment. For severe cases, ultraviolet light therapy at a正规 hospital may also be recommended.
In daily life, patients are advised to maintain a balanced diet, ensure sufficient sleep, and avoid overexertion. If any discomfort or symptoms arise, prompt medical attention is recommended.
