What Those Vertical Ridges on Your Fingernails Might Be Telling You — Especially After 40

Although vertical ridges are typically harmless, there are times when they could signal something more serious. You should seek medical attention if your nail ridges are accompanied by:

• Dark brown or black streaks underneath the nail

• Nail splitting, thickening, or peeling
• Redness, pain, or swelling around the nail bed

These may point to a fungal infection, injury, or — in rare cases — a form of skin cancer called melanoma, which can develop under the nail.

Early detection matters, so never ignore a sudden or dramatic change in your nail’s appearance.

How to Care for Aging Nails

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