What causes flattened fingernails?

Answer 1

It seems that most answers for this include Vitamin B12 deficiencies. B12 is not always available even if taken as a pill because the stomach doesn;t have "intrinsic factor" an enzyme that makes B!@ available . B12 is stored in the liver and the easy way to get is is by a self administered monthly injection, just into a muscle. Other views on flattened nails seem to thin k it might be blood circulatory problem, see Raynaud's disease. Iron and zinc are mentioned too as being deficient. Overall there seems to be no clear answer, so if the nails have become flattened over the last few months, go get a check and a comprehensive blood panel including vitamin and hormones.

Answer 2

Onychomycosis (also known as "dermatophytic onychomycosis", "ringworm of the nail," and "tinea unguium"), means fungal infection of the nail. It is the most common disease of the nails and constitutes about a half of all nail abnormalities.

This condition may affect toenails or fingernails, but toenail infections are particularly common. The prevalence of onychomycosis is about 6-8% in the adult population.

There are four classic types of onychomycosis:

1. Distal subungual onychomycosis is the most common form of tinea unguium, and is usually caused by Trichophyton rubrum, which invades the nail bed and the underside of the nail plate.
2. White superficial onychomycosis (WSO) is caused by fungal invasion of the superficial layers of the nail plate to form "white islands" on the plate. It accounts for only 10 percent of onychomycosis cases. In some cases, WSO is a misdiagnosis of "keratin granulations" which are not a fungus, but a reaction to nail polish that can cause the nails to have a chalky white appearance. A laboratory test should be performed to confirm.
3. Proximal subungual onychomycosis is fungal penetration of the newly formed nail plate through the proximal nail fold. It is the least common form of tinea unguium in healthy people, but is found more commonly when the patient is immunocompromised.
4. Candidal onychomycosis is Candida species invasion of the fingernails, usually occurring in persons who frequently immerse their hands in water. This normally requires the prior damage of the nail by infection or trauma.

Answer 3

Flattened fingernails can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, nutritional deficiencies, or medical conditions such as thyroid disorders or anemia. Trauma to the nail bed or chronic pressure on the nails from activities like typing or wearing tight shoes can also contribute to flattened nails. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.

Answer 4

Fungi thrive in warm and moist conditions. The most common source of nail fungus in humans is when a person is continually barefoot in a warm, moist environment.

Answer 5

Healthy nails