What Causes Ridges in Fingernails?
Article Sources
- 1. Abdullah, RN, Lina, and Ossama Abbas, MD. 'Common Nail Changes and Disorders in Older People: Diagnosis and Management.' PubMed Central (PMC), Feb. 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3038811/
- 2. 'Hair Loss Types: Alopecia Areata Signs and Symptoms.' American Academy of Dermatology, www.aad.org/public/diseases/hair-loss/types/alopecia/symptoms
- 3. 'Slide Show: 7 Fingernail Problems Not to Ignore.' Mayo Clinic, Healthy Lifestyle, 11 Oct. 2019, www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/multimedia/nails/sls-20076131's=5
When To See a Doctor or Dermatologist
If fingernails begin to appear thinner, brittle, discolored or take on an abnormal shape along with developing ridges, schedule a visit with a primary care provider as soon as possible.
A physician can check for causes of fingernail ridges and address any underlying condition. If the ridges have an external cause, such as a bacterial or fungal infection, they may prescribe treatment to combat the infection. They may also refer a person to a dermatologist.
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