What do white lines on nails mean?

What do white lines on nails mean?

White spots or streaks are normal and nothing to worry about. Parallel white lines that extend all the way across the nails, known as Muehrcke’s lines, are a sign of low levels of protein in the blood. In contrast to Beau’s lines, they’re not grooved. They can occur as a result of liver disease or malnutrition.

What vitamin deficiency causes vertical lines in fingernails?

Anemia. A condition in which the red blood cells decrease usually due to deficiency of iron, vitamin B12 or folic acid is called anemia. Iron deficiency alone may be responsible for triggering skin problems. Associated effects can include brittle and fragile nails which may develop vertical ridges or lines.

What causes line on fingernails?

The bottom line Ridges in the fingernails are often normal signs of aging. Slight vertical ridges commonly develop in older adults. In some cases, they may be a sign of health problems like vitamin deficiencies or diabetes. Deep horizontal ridges, called Beau’s lines, may indicate a serious condition.

What are Beau lines on nails?

Beau’s lines are indentations that run across the nails. The indentations can appear when growth at the area under the cuticle is interrupted by injury or severe illness.

How can I get rid of white spots on my fingernails?

Essential oils have been known to heal white spots caused by injury to the nail or nail fungus. Tea tree oil and orange oil tend to work best. Mix a few drops of your essential oils with a carrier oil like olive oil and then rub the oil onto your fingernails.

What causes white lines on your finger nails?

N ail problems can also be due to underlying medical condition such psoriasis and fungal infections hence white spots on nails, ridges, cracking and brittle nails. Tiny vertical lines which are raised on the finger nails are very common and are declared with age.

What are the different types of white spots on nails?

There are three main types of partial leukonychia: Punctate leukonychia, which presents as small white spots. Longitudinal leukonychia, which presents as a white band down the nail. Striate or transverse leukonychia, where one or more horizontal lines appear across the nail, parallel to the lunula.

When to see a doctor for white spots on your nails?

See a doctor for white spots that do not go away. If your nail spots do not go away with a home treatment, make an appointment to see your doctor. While usually not harmful, white spots on nails can sometimes indicate underlying problems like anemia or liver issues.