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Wavy nails are most often considered normal, this is because they happen more frequently in older people and, therefore, is associated with the normal aging process.
However, when wavy nails appear along with other signs related to the nail, such as increasing the thickness of the nail, altering the shape and changing its color, or when more general symptoms such as headache, excessive tiredness, excessive thirst and pale skin, it is important to consult the doctor for an evaluation, since in these cases the wavy nail can be a sign of diseases such as anemia, yeast infection and diabetes or be indicative of nutritional deficiencies.
1. Aging of nails
The appearance of lines on the nails can happen naturally as the person ages, and is not indicative of any disease. Thus, in addition to the undulations in the nail, which are usually vertical, it is common for the person to start showing gray hair, weaker nails and hormonal changes.
What to do: As aging is a natural process, there are no indications for treating the nail undulations. However, it is possible to disguise the lines when passing the base and sanding the nail, as this way it is possible to improve the appearance of the nail.
2. Anemia
Anemia is one of the main causes of changes in the nail, which can be noted both the presence of ripples as well as weaker and brittle nails, opaque and some raised regions. In addition to nail changes, other symptoms of anemia are excessive tiredness, pale skin and constant headache, so it is important to consult the doctor so that the diagnosis is made and the most appropriate treatment is started. Learn how to identify the symptoms of anemia.
What to do: It is recommended to consult the general practitioner in order to identify the cause of the anemia and, thus, the best treatment can be indicated. Thus, according to the type of anemia, the doctor may recommend changes in the diet, in which preference should be given to foods rich in iron or vitamin B12, use of supplements or blood transfusion, for example. Understand how treatment is done for anemia.
3. Yeast infection
Infection of the nail by fungi, known as onychia or onychomycosis, also causes changes in its shape, thickness and color, with ripples in the nail, thicker and harder nails and a more yellowish color.
What to do: It is important to go to the dermatologist to identify the fungus responsible for the infection and, thus, the best treatment can be indicated, which may involve the use of pills, ointments or antifungal enamels. Treatment is usually long and should be done according to the doctor's recommendation to avoid the onset of symptoms again. Learn more about nail ringworm and its treatment.
4. Nutritional deficiency
The deficiency of some vitamins and minerals, vitamin A, B and zinc, can also lead to changes in the nails, including the appearance of ripples, which makes the nail look wrinkled. In addition, the presence of white lines on the nail surface, thick cuticle and weaker nails can be verified.
What to do: In this case, it is important to identify which vitamin or mineral is found in the smallest amounts in the body and, thus, change some eating habits to improve not only the appearance of nails, but also health. Thus, it is indicated to increase the consumption of chestnuts, white meat, fish and eggs, since they are sources of vitamins and minerals.
5. Diabetes
In some cases of diabetes, it is possible that there is a change in the growth process of the nails, which leads to the appearance of vertical lines, which gives the appearance of waviness. However, it is important that other symptoms are present to confirm diabetes, such as excessive thirst, weight gain and excess urine production. Here's how to identify the symptoms of diabetes.
What to do: In case the person has signs and symptoms of diabetes, it is recommended to consult the general practitioner or endocrinologist to make the diagnosis and start treatment, which usually involves changing eating and living habits, including practice physical activity, and medications that help control blood glucose levels.