Manicures can make your nails look smooth and pretty, but shiny nail polish can’t hide any health problems that might be going on inside your body.
Your nails can show a lot about your health, and if you notice anything unusual, it could mean there’s an issue with your liver, lungs, or heart.
The condition of your nails often reflects what’s happening inside you, and changes in your nails can point to different health issues or just be a normal part of getting older.
While stripes on your nails might not be serious, the National Library of Medicine (NCBI) says that ridges can sometimes indicate more serious health problems that need attention.
In this article, we’ll look at the different types of stripes on your nails, what they could mean, and when it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor.
Types of Nail Stripes
Vertical Stripes
Vertical stripes, also known as longitudinal striations, are lines that go from the base of the nail to the tip. These stripes are pretty common and often show up more as people get older because the ridges on nails can become more noticeable with age.
Sometimes, these stripes can be a sign that someone isn’t getting enough nutrients, like certain vitamins or minerals, such as vitamin B12, magnesium, or iron.
While vertical ridges are usually harmless and often seen in older adults, if they suddenly appear or become more noticeable, it might be a good idea to check for health issues like anemia or thyroid problems.
Horizontal Stripes
Horizontal stripes, or grooves, can point to more serious health issues.
These lines, known as Beau’s lines, can show up after an injury to the nail or due to serious health problems like malnutrition, uncontrolled diabetes, heart attacks, or lung diseases.
These horizontal ridges often happen when there’s a temporary stop in nail growth, which can occur during times of high stress or illness, as the body might slow down or pause nail growth during those tough times.
The NCBI states that if the grooves on nails grow suddenly, it could mean there was a quick onset of a disease. When these grooves show up on all 20 nails, it often points to a serious health issue like mumps, pneumonia, coronary thrombosis, Kawasaki disease, syphilis, or hypoparathyroidism.
White Stripes
White, straight lines that run horizontally across the nails without sinking in might suggest problems with the liver or kidneys. These lines, known as Muehrcke’s lines, usually disappear for a short time when you press on the nail and often show up on several nails at once.
A drop in blood protein levels, especially albumin, can also lead to these white lines, which are often found in people who are malnourished or have chronic liver issues.
If you see Muehrcke’s lines on several nails, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor, as it could indicate protein deficiencies or issues with the kidneys or liver.
‘Poor diet’
Most people experience nail ripples, which are usually normal and can be improved with some buffing or by making healthier lifestyle choices.
Eating a balanced diet full of protein, vitamins, and minerals like biotin, vitamin E, iron, and zinc can help make your nails look better over time.
Dr. Sara Norris, a naturopathic doctor from Los Angeles, shared with Healthline that “nail health often reflects how well you’re eating or digesting your food.”
She adds, “Brittle, weak, and peeling nails are the most common issues I see, and they usually come from a poor diet rather than a serious health problem.”
Your nails can give you important clues about your health, showing everything from normal aging signs to possible health issues. Most of the time, these problems are easy to fix, but they can also signal that something might be wrong, so it’s important to pay attention to what your nails are telling you!
When to See a Doctor
While many nail changes are harmless and can be improved with better nutrition and self-care, certain symptoms should not be ignored. If you notice any of the following changes in your nails, it may be time to consult a healthcare professional:
- Sudden Changes: If your nails change color, texture, or shape suddenly, it could be a sign of an underlying health condition that needs immediate attention.
- Thickened or Discolored Nails: Yellowing, thickened nails might indicate fungal infections, which require medical treatment.
- Dark Streaks: Black or brown streaks on the nail, especially if they appear without injury, can be a sign of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer.
- Clubbing: Nails that curve around the fingertips could be a sign of lung disease, heart problems, or inflammatory conditions.
- Pitted Nails: Small dents or pits in the nails may be associated with psoriasis or other skin disorders.
- Persistent Brittle Nails: If your nails are consistently brittle despite dietary improvements, this could indicate a thyroid disorder or other systemic issue.
Taking Care of Your Nails
Healthy nails require proper care and attention. Here are some tips to maintain strong and healthy nails:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water helps keep your nails and cuticles hydrated.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Include foods rich in biotin, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids to promote nail strength.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Limit exposure to harsh chemicals and use gloves when cleaning or washing dishes.
- Keep Nails Clean and Trimmed: Regularly trimming and cleaning your nails can help prevent infections and maintain overall nail health.
- Moisturize Regularly: Using hand and nail creams can prevent dryness and cracking.
- Limit Use of Nail Polish: Overuse of nail polish and removers can weaken nails over time.
Conclusion
Your nails are more than just a beauty accessory; they can provide valuable insight into your overall health. While some nail changes are a normal part of aging, others can indicate nutritional deficiencies or underlying medical conditions that require attention. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and paying attention to any unusual changes, you can ensure that your nails remain strong and healthy.
If you’re concerned about your nail health, it’s always best to seek medical advice to rule out any serious health concerns. Remember, taking care of your nails is an essential part of self-care and overall well-being.
