Have you ever looked at your hand and noticed black lines on nails? What about your toes? It can be very strange and unsettling, and it can also be the result of some major health problems.
When red or black lines are also in the shape of the nail, it may be a sign of melanoma or heart disease, so it is recommended to be examined by a doctor.
What Are Those Red Lines And Black Lines On Fingernails?
Don’t worry if every black or red line runs vertically under your fingernails or toes. Sometimes it can be related to nutrient deficiency or injury, and other times it can be benign. But sometimes it means cancer, its very rare.
What type of cancer is represented by black lines in the nails? Melanoma; Specifically, a type called longitudinal melanonychia. This occurs when more melanocytes, which are mature melanin-forming cells, are produced in the nail area. Sometimes called “nail moles”, these black marks are just like holes that can appear on other parts of the body (such as your hands, shoulders, face or back), and often are not fatal, but like all Should be examined by a dermatologist.
Black lines may not always be directly related to mole growth or melanoma, but can also be caused by aging, nutritional issues, arthritis, fungal infections, or heart infections. The red lines that may develop under your nails are also an indicator that something may be wrong. These red lines, called splinter hemorrhages, can be the result of a heart infection that causes the capillaries to rupture. We will take a closer look at this later in this article.
Are the Black Lines On Fingernails Really A Cancer?
After more than 75% of the time, these black lines occur on your thumbnail or big toe, and the intensity and extent of you and your age vary. For example, people with darker skin are more likely to notice black lines under their nails, but they also have patterns where it is said that the lines are benign.
Caucasians, on the other hand, rarely have such a line, but when they do appear, they have a better chance of having melanoma. It should be noted that this type of melanoma, sub glue melanoma, is very rare, especially in the United States.
When melanoma is responsible for the appearance of lines, your doctor will consider a few things, such as:
- It is very common in 50 to 70 years of age.
- The width of the line: If the line is more than three millimeters wide, it can be a cause for concern.
- Pigment changes: If the appearance of a pigment band at the top of the nail is distorted, it may be an indication that the lines are malignant melanoma.
- Where it is located: The thumb and big toe are the most common places, after the index finger.
- Coverage Area: If the discoloration extends into the cuticle or nail fold, it can become cancerous. This means that your body continues to produce more than it does to cause discoloration.
- Family history: If someone else in your family has been diagnosed with melanoma, it may increase your chances.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is recommended that you go to your doctor for testing. You cannot do much on your own at this time, so it is important to seek proper medical attention.
If Black Lines or Red Lines on the Fingernails and Toenails Are Not Cancer
Of course, black lines in your nails may not be melanoma. As mentioned, they are common in dark-skinned individuals, often without hygiene. However, it is a good idea to see your doctor regardless of color or age.
As mentioned earlier, a fungus can cause the appearance of these lines, or it can be the result of aging. It can also do something with nerve damage caused by a chronic condition like arthritis. Sometimes it can also be associated with nutritional imbalances or deficiencies.
When it is the result of a nutritional imbalance, then blood levels of zinc, iron, calcium or biotin may be to blame. High levels of selenium can also play a role in creating dark lines under the fingers, so paying attention to diet and supplements can provide some help.
As always, a balanced diet rich in nutrients is recommended. When your diet is made up mainly of vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, animal proteins and whole grains, you will get enough of all the nutrients you need. It may be a good idea to take a daily multivitamin to fill in the blanks, but it should not be used as your primary source of nutrition.
Black Lines on Fingernails Harmful for your heart, Are They?
Black lines can indicate some health problems, but can also be red or brown. These lines, mentioned earlier, are called splinter hemorrhages and indicate small areas of bleeding under the nail. These thin red lines also run vertically beneath the nail, and basically look like wings. From which they draw their name. This can happen for a number of reasons, and sometimes it can be an indicator of heart disease or cardiovascular problems.
Small blood clots can cause sphincter hemorrhages that damage the small capillaries below the nail. They can also result in:
- Val Infection of the heart valves (also called endocarditis)
- Vascular damage by swollen blood vessels (vasculitis)
- Bacterial infection of an area.
Damaged blood vessels can be caused by a variety of factors and can also appear in other parts of the body. The eyes and nose are other places where this is seen, and it can be the result of stress or heart problems. To avoid this, it would be worthwhile to explore some lifestyle changes, including more exercise, an improved diet, limiting stress, quitting smoking, limiting drinking, and trying to find ways to get better sleep.
Black Lines Under the Nails During the Time Of Pregnancy
Pregnant women may also notice dark lines or spots under their nails or other parts of the body. This is really nothing to worry about and should be reduced immediately after the end of pregnancy. Pregnancy signals for all kinds of endocrine changes, one of which can accelerate melanin production.
Its Not Good To Cover Up Nails
If you see black lines in your fingers, there could be something serious. Including melanoma or the worst form of heart disease, cancer. If you find these lines formed, please, do not ignore them and see a doctor as soon as possible.
