Tag: Brown nails

According to the National Institutes of Health, vitamin B12 deficiency is a common cause of brownish-gray nail discoloration, a condition known as melanonychia. While many factors can affect nail health, understanding what vitamin deficiency causes brown nails is key to identifying and addressing this symptom effectively.

According to case reports, a vitamin B12 deficiency can cause a specific type of nail hyperpigmentation. While the most common presentation is pale or yellowish nails due to anemia, individuals—especially those with darker skin—may develop bluish-black, brown-gray, or dark streaks on their nails. These changes are often one of several indicators of an underlying deficiency.

According to dermatologists, a significant portion of the population will experience some form of nail discoloration during their lifetime. While many wonder, "Are brown spots on nails a vitamin deficiency?", the reality is that the causes are far more diverse, ranging from minor trauma to serious underlying health issues.

According to dermatological studies, vitamin B12 deficiency is a known cause of brown-gray nail discoloration, especially in individuals with darker skin tones. This distinctive symptom, medically termed melanonychia, serves as a crucial indicator of underlying nutritional issues that can impact overall health.