ridges can become more prominent as people get older because of normal changes in nail growth.
This means that seeing a few fine vertical lines after 40 does not automatically mean something is wrong with your health.
Horizontal Grooves Are Different
Horizontal grooves deserve a little more attention.
These lines are sometimes called Beau’s lines. They occur when nail growth is temporarily interrupted or slowed. Possible triggers include a significant illness, high fever, major physical stress, surgery, or trauma affecting the nail.
Because fingernails grow slowly, a groove may remain visible for some time before eventually moving toward the end of the nail and growing out.
If several nails suddenly develop prominent horizontal grooves, especially after an illness or other major health event, it is worth mentioning the change to a healthcare professional.
Spoon-Shaped Nails Can Have Another Meaning
Another unusual nail change is known as koilonychia, or spoon-shaped nails.
