What Causes Horizontal Lines on Fingernails?
May 26, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Horizontal ridges on the nails typically indicate adverse changes in the digestive system. If the ridges appear centrally on the nail, this may suggest a gastric or intestinal illness occurred approximately three months ago—possibly reflecting suboptimal gastric or intestinal function.
Secondly, if nail polish residue remains on all fingernails, you can soak a cotton pad in nail polish remover, wrap it around each of the ten fingernails for several minutes, and then gently wipe each nail clean using the same cotton pad.
Healthy fingernails should be smooth and rosy red. However, some individuals notice abnormalities in their nails. What causes horizontal ridges (transverse grooves) on the fingernails?
What Causes Horizontal Ridges on Fingernails?
Horizontal ridges on nails are often associated with malnutrition—particularly deficiencies in trace elements such as calcium and iron. They may also be linked to chronic gastrointestinal disorders; for example, patients with chronic gastritis or enteritis frequently develop these ridges due to impaired nutrient absorption from the digestive tract. When nutrient absorption is compromised, the body becomes deficient in essential trace elements. Therefore, we recommend undergoing medical evaluation—including tests for trace element deficiencies and anemia—to identify the underlying cause, followed by targeted supplementation (e.g., calcium and iron) based on clinical findings.
If nail polish residue remains on the nails, soak a cotton pad in nail polish remover, wrap it around each nail for several minutes, then gently wipe the nail surface with the same cotton pad. This method minimizes damage to the nails.
Additionally, incorporate foods rich in protein, iron, calcium, vitamin K, B-complex vitamins, and iodine into your daily diet to support nail health. Avoid frequent use of nail polish, as it damages the nail plate. Moreover, many nail polishes contain harmful chemicals that pose risks to overall health. Nail abnormalities rarely occur without cause—always seek appropriate medical evaluation and management. We strongly advise consulting a healthcare provider promptly for professional assessment. We hope this information is helpful!
