Why are my fingernails ridged and splitting?

It’s simply a common sign of normal aging. The growth of fingernails and toenails slows as we get older, and their appearance may change. Some nails become yellowed or dull and brittle, and some or all may develop tiny longitudinal ridges.

Can iron deficiency cause nail ridges?

Our nails naturally develop slight vertical ridges as we age. However, severe and raised ridges can be a sign of iron deficiency anemia. Nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin B12 or keratin can result in fingernail ridges. Hormonal changes can also cause ridges to appear.

What do fingernails look like with low iron?

Koilonychia is an abnormal shape of the fingernail. The nail has raised ridges and is thin and curved inward. This disorder is associated with iron deficiency anemia. Leukonychia is white streaks or spots on the nails often due to drugs or disease.

What Vitamin Am I lacking if my nails are splitting?

A deficiency in vitamin C can result in brittle nails, as well as slowed nail growth ( 18 ). Vitamin C is an essential nutrient and cannot be produced by your body.

How do you fix iron deficiency?

Iron deficiency can’t be corrected overnight. You may need to take iron supplements for several months or longer to replenish your iron reserves. Generally, you’ll start to feel better after a week or so of treatment. Ask your doctor when to have your blood rechecked to measure your iron levels.

Can you tell if you’re anemic by your fingernails?

Anemia is a condition where your body lacks enough hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body. While fatigue is the leading sign of anemia, this condition can also show itself through brittle or spoon-shaped nails — called koilonychia.

What deficiency causes ridges in your nails?

In most cases lack of Vitamin B-12, Vitamin C, Zinc and Calcium results in the appearance of the nail ridges as these vitamins and minerals are most important in proper nail development and nail strengthening. Vitamin A and silica deficiency are also contributing factors for ridges on nails.

What vitamin deficiency causes ridges in fingernails?

Deficiencies in zinc, folic acid, iron and protein may cause fingernail ridges. The appearance of your nails may also indicate that you’re experiencing other health issues, like psoriasis or kidney problems. The fingernails and toenails are made up of keratin, just like your hair.

What do vertical ridges on fingernails mean?

Having vertical (longitudinal) ridges on the fingernails refers to the presence of tiny raised lines or ridges that run up and down the length of the nail. Ridges are among the different kinds of nail abnormalities that can develop due to aging, nail injury, or trauma, or underlying medical conditions.