What does it mean when there are vertical lines on the nails?

Under normal circumstances, vertical ridges on the nails may be related to factors such as aging, genetic predisposition, onychomycosis, iron-deficiency anemia, and psoriasis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Aging

As people age, protein synthesis in the nail matrix may slow down, leading to reduced thickness and strength of the nail plate, making it more prone to developing vertical ridges. Proper nail care should be maintained, including regular trimming, to ensure cleanliness and structural integrity.

2. Genetic Factors

If family members have nails with vertical ridges, individuals may have a higher likelihood of developing similar conditions due to inherited genes that affect the health of the nail matrix, manifesting as vertical ridges on the nails. Appropriate nail care—such as regularly applying cuticle or nail moisturizers, minimizing exposure to water and detergents, and maintaining a healthy diet—can effectively slow the progression of these ridges.

3. Onychomycosis (Fungal Nail Infection)

Onychomycosis is caused by fungal infection, which allows fungi to invade the nail plate or subungual tissue, disrupting the normal structure of the nail and resulting in abnormalities such as vertical ridges. Symptoms may also include nail thickening, discoloration, and brittleness. Patients can follow medical advice to use antifungal medications such as amorolfine hydrochloride solution, terbinafine hydrochloride tablets, or itraconazole capsules for treatment.

4. Iron-Deficiency Anemia

Iron-deficiency anemia results from insufficient iron, impairing hemoglobin synthesis and reducing oxygen delivery throughout the body—including to the nails. This hypoxic environment may slow nail growth and compromise nail quality, leading to the formation of vertical ridges. Additional symptoms may include fatigue, dizziness, and palpitations. Under medical supervision, patients may take medications such as compound ferrous sulfate granules, iron dextran tablets, or ferrous fumarate tablets.

5. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with genetic, immune, and environmental factors. When psoriasis affects the nails, it can disrupt nail growth, causing abnormalities such as vertical ridges. Other symptoms may include red skin patches and scaling. Under a doctor’s guidance, patients may use medications such as methotrexate tablets, Xioyin granules, or compound glycyrrhizin tablets for management.

In daily life, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding frequent contact with chemicals, regularly trimming nails, and applying nail moisturizers can help prevent the development of vertical nail ridges.