What could cause horizontal lines on some of the nails?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 71-year-old male. I noticed I have horizontal lines on some of my nails. What causes this? I have hypertension and suffered from COVID-19, but I seem to have mostly recovered from it. Could that be the cause?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern regarding horizontal lines on your nails. I have seen the image you provided (the attachment was removed to protect the patient's identity). Yes, these seem to be Beau's lines. These lines are caused due to infections or underlying skin conditions. As you have a history of COVID-19 (Coronavirus 2019), Beau's lines are reported mostly a few months after infection. There are other causes of Beau's lines, which include diabetes, hypertension, and renal and cardiac diseases. However, since you have a recent history of COVID-19, these lines are most likely attributed to the infection.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.