Nutritional deficiencies (especially iron, zinc, or vitamin B12)

Autoimmune disorders (e.g., psoriasis, alopecia areata, lupus)

Thyroid imbalances (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism)

Inflammatory conditions (like eczema or arthritis)

Stress or trauma to the nail matrix

Aging (natural vertical ridges may increase over time)

Preparation (What to Observe and How to Respond):

continued on next page