What causes uneven and bumpy fingernails?
Sep 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Uneven and bumpy fingernails may be associated with various factors such as aging, malnutrition, iron-deficiency anemia, psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis. Aging slows down nail cell renewal, while malnutrition and iron-deficiency anemia impair the nutritional supply to the nails. Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are related to immune system abnormalities, which affect nail growth and morphology. It is recommended to identify the underlying cause before initiating appropriate treatment.
In general, uneven or rough fingernails may be related to factors such as aging, malnutrition, iron-deficiency anemia, psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Aging
As people age, the rate of nail cell regeneration may slow down, and the production of keratin protein may decrease accordingly. This can cause the fingernails to gradually lose their natural luster and smoothness, resulting in an uneven surface. Maintaining proper nail trimming and regularly using nail polish or nail-strengthening treatments can help promote nail health.
2. Malnutrition
A deficiency in essential vitamins and minerals—particularly iron, zinc, and B vitamins—can impair the nutritional supply necessary for healthy nail growth, leading to uneven or irregular fingernails. Adjusting the diet to ensure adequate nutrient intake can help improve nail condition.
3. Iron-Deficiency Anemia
Iron-deficiency anemia is primarily caused by insufficient iron stores in the body, which can affect the nutrient supply required for nail growth, resulting in thin, brittle nails with indentations. Symptoms may also include fatigue, pallor, and palpitations. Patients may take medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, compound trivitamin iron oral solution, or succinic acid ferrous tablets under medical supervision.
4. Psoriasis
Psoriasis is mainly triggered by genetic and immune system factors. The immune system mistakenly attacks normal skin cells—including those in the nail bed—as if they were foreign threats, causing excessive skin cell proliferation and potentially disrupting nail growth. This may lead to nail changes such as pitting or small depressions. Other symptoms may include red skin patches, scaling, and joint pain. Treatment options under a doctor's guidance may include methotrexate injection, acitretin capsules, or clindamycin hydrochloride for injection.
5. Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is primarily triggered by bacterial or viral infections, which may activate the immune system and provoke inflammatory responses. This inflammation can affect not only the skin but also joints and fingernails, leading to joint swelling, pain, and abnormal nail growth such as indentations or cracks. Additional symptoms may include nail thickening and joint deformities. Treatment under medical supervision may include leflunomide tablets, cyclosporine soft capsules, or etanercept for injection.
Maintaining healthy lifestyle and dietary habits, regularly cleaning and properly trimming nails, and avoiding prolonged exposure to chemicals or physical trauma are all beneficial for maintaining healthy nails.
