Question:
Does malabsorption of zinc cause finger nails to change?

I am 6 months post op and have noticed that a couple of my fingernails have some "waves" in them that I never had before and are not a result of any trauma. I'm wondering if my diet regimen is lacking some mineral, etc. that might be causing this to happen. Has anyone else experienced this and gotten any information on the condition?    — Ed D. (posted on January 4, 2002)

January 4, 2002
Ed, check the library - search under the word "fingernails." I had trouble with mine splitting and peeling, went there and found lots of info. You might try going to a manicurist (I know, but lots of guys do it and it won't kill you!!) and have her take a look. Do not go to some chain place where they do nails in 15 minutes----find a good salon where a well-trained tech is working. Sometimes the waves can be a sign of a fungus, too - if so, your doctor can prescribe some meds for that. You don't have to actually GET a manicure---just get them looked at!! Good luck.
   — mskarns