Vertical streaks: natural aging or a lack of nutrients?
Ridges that extend from the base to the tip of the nail are the most common.
What do they mean?
With age , these lines become more pronounced, like wrinkles on the skin .
They can also indicate deficiencies in iron, magnesium or vitamin B12 .
When to worry?
If they appear or become deeper , a blood test can help detect a thyroid deficiency or disorder .
Horizontal streaks: a warning signal from the body
Unlike vertical ridges, grooves that run across the nail from left to right are more worrisome. On Beau’s call lines , they often indicate a temporary slowdown in nail growth due to illness or intense stress .
Possible causes:
Serious trauma or infection .
A significant nutritional deficiency .
Underlying diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular or respiratory disorders .
