Appearance: Horizontal ridges run across the nail from side to side, creating noticeable grooves.
Possible Causes:
Illness or Fever: Beau’s lines can appear after a significant illness, high fever, or trauma, disrupting the growth of the nail temporarily.
Nutrient Deficiencies: Just like vertical ridges, horizontal ridges can also be linked to a deficiency in vitamins or minerals.
Infections: Serious infections or a history of systemic illness may cause disruptions in nail growth, leading to horizontal lines.
Chemotherapy: People undergoing chemotherapy often experience changes in their nails, including Beau’s lines.
3. Spoon Nails (Koilonychia)
Appearance: Spoon nails are soft and have raised edges with a concave shape, making them appear spoon-like.
Possible Causes:
Iron Deficiency Anemia: One of the most common causes of spoon nails is iron deficiency anemia. This condition prevents your body from producing enough healthy red blood cells.
Heart Disease: Rarely, spoon nails can also be linked to cardiovascular issues, including congenital heart disease.
Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid can cause changes in the nails, including spoon-shaped nails.
4. Pitted Nails
Appearance: Small dents or pits form on the surface of the nails, which can be shallow or deep.
Possible Causes:
Psoriasis: One of the most common causes of pitted nails is psoriasis, an autoimmune condition that affects the skin and nails.
Eczema: Like psoriasis, eczema can cause pitting on the nails as a result of inflammation.
Alopecia Areata: This autoimmune disorder, which causes hair loss, can also lead to pitted nails.
When Should You Be Concerned About Ridges on Your Nails?
