Horizontal ridges down my nails

Hello Anonymous,

Welcome to EmpowHER. Thank you for reaching out to us with your concern.
I am sorry to hear that you are battling cancer and have not been able to eat for three years.

I will gladly provide you with general information, but urge you to speak with your physician to have these ridges evaluated.

Horizontal nail ridges running from side to side of the nail, known as Beau's lines, may be a sign of previous injury, underlying health conditions, or in rare cases, arsenic poisoning.

Beau’s Lines are characterized by deep, linear grooves and cells that have been darkened underneath the nail. These lines are indicative of various kinds of trauma, chemotherapy, malnutrition, acute illnesses, and metabolic problems. All of these conditions cause interruptions in the protein synthesis by the nail.

Muehrcke Lines happen when there is an interruption in nail pigmentation. Kidney and liver disease, malnutrition and chemotherapy are directly linked to causing these kinds of horizontal lines on the nails.

Transverse Ridges are indicative of a history of severe illness in someone. If you have suffered consistent threatening diseases or suffer from a terminal illness, such as cancer, these ridges will appear on your nails.

Aldrich Mee's Lines appear as discolored lines across the nails. Arsenic poisoning or poisoning from other heavy, toxic materials cause these lines to appear.

Terry' Nails are characterized by having a white nail plate. Someone with Terry’ nails will also have a horizontal band at the tip of the nail. Those suffering from diabetes, HIV, kidney disorders or liver disease will have Terry’ nails.

Regards,
Maryann