myRAteam

Are vertical nail ridges causing your nails to split down the ridge?

Yes, this can happen with rheumatoid arthritis. Vertical ridges, also called longitudinal ridging or onychorrhexis, can create grooves along the length of your nails that may be deep or shallow. When these ridges are deep enough, the nails can become more Show Full Answer

Are vertical nail ridges causing your nails to split down the ridge?

Yes, this can happen with rheumatoid arthritis. Vertical ridges, also called longitudinal ridging or onychorrhexis, can create grooves along the length of your nails that may be deep or shallow. When these ridges are deep enough, the nails can become more fragile and prone to splitting along those lines.

Keeping your nails short is a smart approach to help prevent further splitting and damage.

Here are some additional tips that may help:

- Apply moisturizer regularly to keep nails hydrated
- Limit exposure to harsh chemicals and cleaning products
- Maintain proper nail hygiene with regular trimming and cleaning
- Consider using over-the-counter nail-strengthening products like protein lacquers or polishes
- Avoid harsh treatments like gels or acrylics, which can cause more damage

A myRAteam member shared that soaking feet in Epsom salt and applying tea tree oil or lavender oil to nails helped with nail trauma and soreness. They also recommended seeing a doctor for broken or damaged nails.

If the splitting is causing significant problems or you notice other changes like yellowing or lifting, talk to your rheumatologist. They can evaluate whether any adjustments to your treatment plan might help.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Signs of Rheumatoid Arthritis in Nails