Lines on your nails could be a hidden health warning: What your body may be telling you?
1. Mees’ Lines
These are white horizontal lines that do not fade when pressed. They may be associated with:
Heavy metal poisoning (arsenic, mercury)
Kidney disease
Certain infections
2. Muehrcke’s Lines
These appear as paired white lines and are linked to:
Low blood protein (hypoalbuminemia)
Liver disease
Malnutrition
Unlike Beau’s lines, these disappear when pressure is applied to the nail.
Dark Lines Under the Nails: A Warning Sign Not to Ignore
A dark vertical stripe – especially under a single nail – can be concerning.
Possible causes:
Melanonychia (increased pigment, often benign)
Trauma
Subungual melanoma (a rare but serious skin cancer)
⚠️ Seek medical attention immediately if:
The dark line is widening
The pigment spreads to surrounding skin
The nail changes shape or bleeds
There is no history of injury
Lines Plus Other Nail Changes: Stronger Warning
Nail lines accompanied by other symptoms deserve closer attention, such as:
Brittle or splitting nails
Nail discoloration (yellow, blue, pale)
Thickening or deformity
Pain or swelling around the nail
These combinations may point to thyroid disorders, lung disease, autoimmune conditions, or chronic infections.
When Should You See a Doctor?
See continuation on next page
