Check for signs of cancer before removing vertical lines from your nails.

When you see a black vertical line on your nail, anyone would be startled at least once.

At first, I search for "What causes black lines on nails?" and it's easy to dismiss it as just a minor external impact or trauma.

But do you know? This might not be just a simple bruise.

If you're considering how to get rid of vertical lines on your nails, the first thing you should think about is why these lines appeared and understanding the cause.

 

Common causes of black lines on nails include external trauma, melanin pigmentation, drug reactions, or nutritional deficiencies.
But what if the vertical line stays in place and the color of the line darkens or widens?
From this moment on, I started to worry, "Could it be cancer?"

 

 

 

 

In dermatology, they are actually warning that a black line on the nail could also be a sign of melanoma.

In particular, skin cancer called 'subungual melanoma' is a form where cancer cells grow beneath the nail, and it is said to arrive very quietly.

It doesn't itch or hurt, it just looks like a mole or a bruise, so I ignore it without thinking.
If cancer cells spread to other organs through the blood or lymph nodes, the situation can become really serious.

 

 

 

 

Then, before removing the vertical lines on the nails, in what cases should we suspect melanoma?
If the line thickness is 3mm or more, or if it is mixed with multiple colors rather than a single color, it is a warning sign.
If the shape of the line is asymmetrical, the borders are not clear, or the line changes rapidly, it's best to go to the hospital immediately.

 

 

- Melanoma

 

 

Of course, not all black lines indicate cancer.

There are also benign streaks called melanonychia that can occur after radiation therapy or medication intake.
Since it is still difficult to distinguish clearly, expert diagnosis is more important than self-diagnosis.

 

 

- Black onychogryphosis

 

 

So, what can we do to eliminate the vertical lines on the nails?

First, let's start with lifestyle habits to take care of nail health!
It is good to ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients such as protein and iron, keep your nails clean, and minimize external stimuli as much as possible.

Soaking your hands in warm water also helps improve blood circulation in the nails.

 

 

 

 

And paying close attention to the signals your nails send is the most important.

Nails are really a mirror of our body.

If there is a possibility of melanoma due to a black line on the nail, the safest approach is to undergo a thorough examination at a dermatology clinic.

 

 

In conclusion, there are various causes for black lines on the nails, but there are definitely cases that require caution.
Before attempting to eliminate vertical lines on your nails, be sure to check the cause and seek professional consultation immediately if there are any abnormal signs.
It could be the first step in protecting your health from the potential risk of black nail streaks indicating nail melanoma.

 

 

➡️ Check your health status by looking at your fingernails!!