Fibromyalgia Effects: Ridged Fingernails
Fibromyalgia is diagnosed by a cluster of symptoms, one of which is ridged fingernails. However, ridged fingernails are common, usually harmless and do not necessarily mean that you are at risk for fibromyalgia.
What is fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a syndrome of body wide pain and tenderness in muscles, joints and other soft tissue. Most patients also have profound fatigue and sleep disturbances. There is no definitive test for fibromyalgia; it is diagnosed based on a checklist of symptoms over time.
What is the link between ridged fingernails and fibromyalgia?

Some patients with fibromyalgia notice vertical ridges running from the cuticle to the tip of the fingernail. Vertical ridges are usually nothing to be concerned about, and may be more common in fibromyalgia patients because of overall issues with dryness. Alert your doctor if you suddenly develop ridges or other changes in your fingernails.
When should you be concerned about fingernail ridges and other changes?

Fibromyalgia patients are susceptible to autoimmune disorders and other diseases that can impact fingernails. Contact your doctor if you notice horizontal ridges, pitting or a change in the curvature or shape. Spooning, an inward curve, or clubbing, an outward curve toward the finger tips, are particularly worrisome. Brittleness, splitting or peeling are signs of vitamin deficiency or extreme dryness.
How are ridged fingernails treated?

Everyone can take steps to have healthy, smooth fingernails. Moisturize your hands and fingernails every time you wash your hands. Protect your fingernails by using gloves when you wash dishes or do other chores. While fingernail polish can fill in any ridges temporarily, use polish only occasionally as it can dry out your nails. Avoid acrylic fingernails altogether.
Can vitamins help with ridged fingernails?

All fibromyalgia patients need to pay special attention to nutrition and should consider taking vitamin supplements. If you have ridged fingernails as a result of fibromyalgia, look for supplements containing vitamin D, magnesium, B12 and iron. Rub vitamin E oil directly into your fingernails and cuticles after a shower and before bedtime.
Many people develop ridged fingernails as they get older. The process may be accelerated if you have fibromyalgia. Fortunately, ridged fingernails are rarely a serious problem on their own, and you can take easy steps to maintain healthy, strong fingernails.

I've got ridges in my nails but didn't know it was caused by fibro, I always put it down to vitamin difficiency??

I have the nail ridges too. I used to have nice nails but now they just split and break.

I did. I use to have nice firm nails,and now I can't get them to grow and when they do a little they will split down a grooves of the nail. I have used one of those smoothers and I think it just makes the nail thiner and weak.

I have ridges in my nails but was told it's a symptom of the lichen planus I have on my wrists, ankles, gums, generally most of my body... Does anyone else have lichen planus?