whst causes and how to prevent ridges on fingernails

There are two different types of nail ridges- horizontal and vertical.

Vertical nail ridges are fairly common, extend from the cuticle to the tip of the fingernail and are more prominent as we age. Limiting prolonged exposure to soap and water can help. Wearing latex gloves when washing dishes or using household cleaners in one way to protect your hands and fingernails.

Horizontal nail ridges may indicate the presence of an underlying illness or medical condition, although this is not always the case. Horizontal nail ridges run from one side of the nail lengthwise across to the other side. One special type of horizontal nail ridge that may indicate underlying illness is called Beau’s lines.

With horizontal nail ridges, it is important to find the underlying cause and treat it.

Maryann