What causes black vertical lines on the nails?

Sep 22, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

In general, black vertical lines on the nails may be caused by aging, malnutrition, trauma, onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), psoriasis, or other factors. It is important to maintain good personal hygiene and cleanliness, and avoid prolonged contact with dirty or contaminated objects. Maintaining a healthy diet and supplementing with essential minerals can help support nail health.

Under normal circumstances, black vertical lines on the nails may be caused by factors such as aging, malnutrition, trauma, onychomycosis (fungal nail infection), or psoriasis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Aging

As people age, nail growth slows down and blood circulation decreases, leading to structural changes in the nail plate and the appearance of black vertical lines. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, engaging in moderate exercise, and ensuring adequate sleep can help delay the aging process.

2. Malnutrition

Excessive picky eating may lead to deficiencies in essential minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc, depriving the nails of sufficient nutrients for healthy growth, which may result in black vertical lines. A balanced diet rich in minerals and vitamins—such as milk, eggs, and lean meat—is recommended.

3. Trauma

When the nail experiences impact or pressure, capillaries beneath the nail may rupture and bleed, causing blood accumulation that appears as a black vertical streak. This is often accompanied by swelling and pain. Treatment may include medications such as ibuprofen tablets, acetaminophen tablets, or chlortetracycline hydrochloride ointment, as advised by a doctor.

4. Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection)

Onychomycosis is usually caused by fungal infection, which may activate melanocytes, leading to melanin deposition in the nail and resulting in black vertical lines. Symptoms may also include nail thickening, deformation, and brittleness. Treatment may involve antifungal medications such as itraconazole capsules, terbinafine hydrochloride tablets, or compound ketoconazole ointment, taken as prescribed.

5. Psoriasis

Psoriasis may be triggered by long-term smoking, air pollution, or high levels of psychological stress. It can cause abnormal proliferation of skin cells, altering the structure of the nail plate and forming dark or blackish streaks. Other symptoms may include red patches and joint pain. Treatments may include calcipotriol ointment, compound acetic acid dexamethasone cream, or tacrolimus ointment, used under medical supervision.

In daily life, maintaining personal hygiene and avoiding prolonged contact with contaminated substances is important. Additionally, adopting healthy eating habits and supplementing essential minerals can help support nail health.

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