Beau’s lines are horizontal depressions across the width of the fingernail that occur when one or more nails stop growing for one or more days. When the body regenerates nail cells, the nails resume normal growth and the lines appear. Dr. Joseph Honore Simon Beau discovered the problem in 1846, and the anomaly was named after the French physician. Beau’s lines appear for a variety of external and systemic reasons, but here are a few common causes to look out for.
Localized Trauma
When a nail suffers trauma from enough external force, the nail matrix is temporarily stunned. Once the injury heals, the nail begins growing again, and a Beau’s line may appear. As the nail continues growing, the line eventually disappears. No treatment is needed unless the finger or toe requires first aid or medical attention.
Infections
If a senior develops a systemic infection accompanied by a fever, Beau’s lines may appear on multiple nails as the body puts more effort into combating the problem rather than producing nail cells. Depending on the severity of the infection, the fingernails and toenails may be affected. With proper diet, hydration, rest, and medications, if needed, the body recovers and the nails grow out.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Malnutrition
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can also contribute to the formation of Beau’s lines. A calcium or zinc deficiency may be the root of the problem. Encouraging your loved one to include sufficient quantities of dairy products and lean beef or seafood in his or her diet may remedy the problem.
A home caregiver can help your loved one get the nutrition he or she needs for optimal health. If you’re the primary caregiver for a senior family member and you need respite care Reston, VA, Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help. Our home caregivers are trained to assist older adults with a wide variety of everyday tasks, including meal prep, physical activity, and personal hygiene. We also provide 24-hour care and specialized care for seniors with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s.
Cardiovascular Problems
Beau’s lines may appear if your loved one has extremely low blood pressure or has had a heart attack. A visit to your loved one’s health care provider for an evaluation may lead to an adjustment in medication or the need for more serious medical intervention. The problem might also occur if your loved one has recently undergone surgery or is receiving chemotherapy.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or completing daily tasks, it’s important to choose a trusted provider of professional support. Families in Reston can rely on at home care Reston services from Assisting Hands Home Care to help their loved ones live happier, healthier lives in their golden years. Call one of our dedicated Care Specialists today to learn more about our high-quality in-home care services
