What Your Fingernails Say About Your Hidden Health Issues

4.Rippled or Pitted Nails

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If your nails are not smooth and show irregular surface patterns, you may be lacking essential nutrients such as zinc, calcium, or vitamin A, or you might be developing a skin condition such as eczema, psoriasis, or other inflammatory disorders that affect nail growth and appearance. Pitting, which appears as tiny dents or depressions in the nail surface, is often linked to these nutritional deficiencies or autoimmune conditions that disrupt normal nail formation. These changes can appear as small circular depressions, wave-like patterns, or horizontal ridges that reflect periods of stress or illness during nail growth. Psoriasis is particularly well known for causing nail pitting, and the severity of nail changes often directly correlates with the severity of skin symptoms elsewhere on the body. Other conditions like alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition causing hair loss, and lichen planus, an inflammatory skin condition, can also cause distinctive nail pitting patterns.

While good nail care practices including gentle filing, regular moisturizing, and protection from harsh chemicals can help prevent further damage, effective treatment usually focuses on managing the underlying condition rather than treating the nail changes themselves. Working with a dermatologist or healthcare provider to identify and treat the root cause is essential for improving both nail appearance and overall health.