Doctor explains what ridges in nails mean and when it might be something serious

Jun 21, 2023

Ridges in nails can point to potentially worrying issues such as iron deficiencies - and also low levels of protein and calcium

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Most people get ridges on their nails and never think anything of it. However a doctor has said that it could in fact mean that you might have a serious health condition in some cases.

Ridges in nails can point to potentially worrying issues such as iron deficiencies - and also low levels of protein and calcium, according to Dr Ross Perry, the Mirror reports.

The doctor, of skin clinic chain Cosmedics, said: “Nutritional factors such as deficiencies in vitamins such as Vitamin A, or if your body is low in protein or calcium then you may notice ridges. Severe iron deficiencies could also create ridges and other changes to the nails.”

He explained that in one case it is very serious and that people should get in touch with their GP straight away: “Severe, deep ridges albeit rare could be a symptom of a more serious medical condition such as kidney disease and would need medical tests to determine the cause. Diabetes could also be the underlying health reason for this.”

However most of the time, we don’t need to worry as something as simple as picking at your nails can also cause the ridges. “Nail problems are not usually caused by anything serious,” the NHS says. “Common nail problems include brittle, loose nails that may change colour or shape.”

But if you experience any changes to your fingernails, it’s important to seek medical attention. The health experts warn you should seek medical attention if “a nail has changed shape, changed colour or fallen off and you do not know why”.

They also recommend seeing a GP if “the skin around your nails has become sore, red, swollen and warm (paronychia), which can be a sign of an infection or ingrown toenail. And you should have to see a podiatrist if “your nails are too tough to cut or you cannot reach them”.

The NHS says concerning nails that they do change over time:

It’s normal for nails to:

Fingernails that fall off after an injury should grow back within 6 months. Toenails can take up to 18 months.

If you are concerned about your nails, visit your GP for advice. You can also get plenty of handy information on the NHS website.