People usually mistake it for an injury, weakness, or a normal change, but in some cases, it can also be a sign of a serious disease, such as skin cancer.

Many times, small changes occur in our bodies, which we ignore, thinking them to be minor. Thin black or brown lines on the nails are one such symptom. People often mistake them for injury, weakness, or a normal change, but in some cases, they can be a sign of a serious illness, such as skin cancer. Recently, a woman shared a photo of her nails on the social media platform Reddit, prompting people to advise her to see a doctor. This incident has increased awareness about the appearance of black lines on nails.

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The black or brown, straight lines that appear on the nail layer are medically known as melanomas. These lines can range from light to dark and can appear on any nail, whether on the hands or feet. Sometimes they're present from birth, and sometimes they appear with age.

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Often, black lines on nails aren't caused by a serious illness; they can be due to a number of common causes, such as injury to the nail, nutritional deficiencies, the effects of certain medications, and hormonal changes. It's more common in people with darker skin. Therefore, many people don't take it seriously.

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If the black line appears suddenly, is on just one nail, or gradually deepens and widens, it may be a cause for concern. In some cases, it could be a sign of a skin cancer called subungual melanoma, which occurs under the nail and is considered quite dangerous.

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Not just the black line, but these symptoms can also point to a serious illness: If you notice any of these symptoms: a broken or unusually shaped nail, swelling or pain around the nail, a nail that's lifted from the root, a lump, wound, or bleeding under the nail, you should immediately consult a doctor.

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Doctors often recommend a biopsy in such cases. This is because a simple look alone can't determine whether it's a benign condition or cancer. Many experts say that while it's rare for two nails to develop cancer simultaneously, it's still safe to get tested. Early detection can save lives.

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Melanoma is considered the most dangerous form of skin cancer because it can spread rapidly throughout the body. However, if it's caught early, treatment is easier, and patients can make a full recovery. Many people have shared their experiences that early diagnosis saved their lives, even if they had to lose a nail or part of a finger.