Nail ridges

Hi Jenny @jennyw, I have ridges on my fingernails and toenails also but I think it may have more to do with my age as I am 76. My wife also had ridges on her nails which was more concerning for her as they were brittle also. She takes Collagen Hydrolysate daily and that has helped with her nails. Here is some more information that talks about ridges and what they mean. I don't believe they've ever been tied to neuropathy but they have been associated with other conditions.

All you need to know about ridges in fingernails
-- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319867.php#types-and-causes

@sunshine49 mentioned having ridges in a post and may be able to share some information with you.

I also have this and have since I was in my mid-50's. I couldn't care less about the ridges, but am a bit nervous about how brittle my nails are.

Thanks @johnbishop, I will check that out. I don't really care about the look of my nails but they seem to be splitting more regularly and it's becoming painful.

I have small fiber neuropathy, and one of the first signs of trouble was brittle nails with ridges. I believe there is a definite connection.

Hi. I saw your post after scanning what seems to be a personal conversation between a few. Seeking close to my symptoms is a battle in and of itself.
Nails was yours subject. Brittle nails with ridges.
I do Not have the ridges. But brittle Yes.
Also at both thumbs where the nails begins to extend. If I do not keep them clipped they tear straight across.
I have often thought, that this is a tell tell to so.e underlying deeper health related issue, but so far have never asked or even spoken of it to anyone really outside of family.
Do your nails tear??

They tear somewhat, but mostly grow square and have deep ridges.

@lisash, @swatzki. Amazing, I just got back from having my hands and feet done. The technician showed me how much stronger my nails are now. They were thin, brittle and breaking several months ago. The only thing I have changed is the tapering off an anti-depressant. I haven't researched that as a possibility. Do either of you have any knowledge of medications that might be contributing to your tearing and brittleness? Be safe and free of suffering. Chris

You should see a dermatologist. Two neurologists have told me this has nothing to do with my CIDP. A dermatologist told me it’s psoriasis of the nails. I have it on five fingernails. It can be treated with steroid injections under the nails, but that doesn’t always work. A light treatment is sometimes used. Or you can have all your affected nails removed surgically and wait a year for new ones to grow in. I have started using a new Kerasol product that causes the damaged, brittle material to gradually peel off and make room for new growth. I haven’t used it long so I don’t know the ultimate result, but the bad stuff is coming off in strips (no pain) and I see new growth at the bottom of each nail.

@sparshall. Thanks for that idea. I hope that the nails keep growing strong and stable. Today she showed me how the new nail was replacing the old broken one. Put me on your list for information on the Kerasol product. Be content and at ease. Chris

Hi. Ya sounds great.
No meds. Were takin By me for years except for headache meds.