Are ridges on the fingernails a sign of disease?

Ridges on fingernails, known as Beau's lines, can indicate a temporary disruption of nail growth. While they can be caused by a variety of factors, such as illness, injury, or nutritional deficiencies, they are usually not a sign of a serious disease. However, if the ridges are persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, it's advisable to consult a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Here are some possible causes of nail ridges:

1. Trauma: An injury to the nail matrix (the part of the nail under the skin that produces the nail) can lead to the formation of ridges. This can happen due to accidents, nail biting, or excessive pressure on the nail.

2. Illness: Certain illnesses that cause a high fever or affect the growth of the nail matrix can result in nail ridges. These include illnesses such as pneumonia, measles, mumps, scarlet fever, and severe infections.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies: A lack of certain vitamins and minerals, particularly iron, zinc, calcium, and vitamin B12, can cause nail ridges.

4. Skin Conditions: Some skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, can extend to the nails and cause ridges or other nail abnormalities.

5. Medications: Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs, antibiotics, and antidepressants, can have side effects that affect the nails, leading to ridges or other changes.

6. Aging: As people age, their nails may become thinner, more brittle, and develop ridges. This is due to reduced nail growth and changes in the nail matrix.

If you notice persistent nail ridges or any other concerning nail changes, it's recommended to consult a dermatologist or a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. They can examine your nails, take a medical history, and perform any necessary tests to determine the cause of the nail ridges and recommend appropriate treatment if needed.