Caleb Foster
Horizontal lines in nails, also known as Beau's lines, can be caused by a number of factors, including malnutrition, nail injury, and certain illnesses. These lines may appear as a single groove on one nail or multiple grooves on all nails. While they are usually harmless, they can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition or nutrient deficiency. In this article, we will explore the various causes of horizontal lines in nails and discuss possible treatments to achieve smoother nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Beau's lines |
| Malnutrition | |
| Nail injury | |
| Peripheral vascular disease | |
| Severe illness with high fever | |
| Nutritional deficiencies | |
| Zinc deficiency | |
| Iron deficiency |
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What You'll Learn
Horizontal lines in nails can be caused by malnutrition
Zinc deficiency is not the only nutritional deficiency that can cause changes to your nails. Iron deficiency can cause vertical nail ridges and koilonychia (spoon nails).
Ridges in your nails are usually harmless but can mean different things. Vertical ridges are often a sign of ageing, while horizontal ridges can point to issues like malnutrition, serious nail injury, or Beau's lines.
If you are concerned about horizontal lines in your nails, you can connect to a dermatologist in your area using the Healthline FindCare tool.
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Horizontal lines in nails can be caused by nail trauma
Horizontal lines in nails can also be caused by using artificial nails or getting gel manicures for long periods. This can harm the nails and lead to horizontal ridges.
In addition, certain health conditions can cause horizontal lines in nails, including peripheral vascular disease, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and Raynaud's disease. These conditions interfere with blood flow to the nail, which can disrupt nail growth and cause horizontal ridges.
Treating the underlying cause of the horizontal lines in nails will allow new, smooth nails to grow again.
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Horizontal lines in nails can be caused by peripheral vascular disease
Horizontal lines in nails, also known as Beau's lines, can be caused by peripheral vascular disease (PAD). Beau's lines are horizontal ridges or dents in one or more of your fingernails or toenails. They are a sign that an illness, injury or skin condition has interrupted your nail growth. Treating the underlying cause will allow new, smooth nails to grow again.
Peripheral vascular disease is a condition that interferes with blood flow to the nail. Other conditions that can cause Beau's lines include diabetes, hypothyroidism and Raynaud's disease.
Other possible causes of horizontal lines in nails include malnutrition, nail trauma, and certain nutritional deficiencies, such as zinc deficiency.
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Horizontal lines in nails can be caused by a severe illness
Beau's lines can also be caused by nutritional deficiencies, such as a zinc deficiency, which can also cause white spots on your nails. Iron deficiency can cause vertical nail ridges and koilonychia (spoon nails).
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Horizontal lines in nails can be caused by a zinc deficiency
Zinc deficiency is not the only nutritional deficiency that can cause changes to your nails. Iron deficiency, for example, can cause vertical nail ridges and koilonychia (spoon nails).
If you are experiencing horizontal lines in your nails, it is important to consult a doctor or dermatologist to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Treating the cause can help you grow smoother nails.
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Frequently asked questions
Horizontal lines in nails are usually harmless, but they can be a sign of a condition called Beau's lines.
Beau's lines are horizontal ridges or dents in one or more of your nails. They are caused by an illness or injury that has interrupted your nail growth.
Possible causes of Beau's lines include chemotherapy, damage from using artificial nails, gel manicures, or nail injury, peripheral vascular disease, severe illness with high fever, and certain nutritional deficiencies.
Treating the underlying cause of Beau's lines can help you grow smoother nails.
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