I've been noticing tiny pin pricks on my hand nails for the past month and I'm getting worried. Last December, I had a preventive blood test done and it showed I have a folic acid deficiency. Could this be causing the pricks? I'm also on Telsar 40 for my high blood pressure. I spend most of my time working in a corporate office, usually in an air-conditioned room. I'm really curious about what exactly might be causing this. Do you think it's something serious or just related to my deficiency?

Dr Ibrahim Salah

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 2+ Yrs

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The tiny pin pricks on your hand nails could be due to the folic acid deficiency you have. Folic acid deficiency can lead to changes in the nails, such as brittle or fragile nails with small depressions or tiny pin pricks. The exact cause of your folic acid deficiency could be related to inadequate dietary intake, poor absorption in the gut, or increased demand for folic acid in conditions like hypertension or due to medications like Telsar 40. To address the folic acid deficiency and improve the condition of your nails, you can consider taking a folic acid supplement such as Folvite 5mg once daily after consulting with your doctor. Additionally, make sure to consume a diet rich in folic acid, including green leafy vegetables, fruits, nuts, and fortified cereals. It's also important to continue monitoring your blood levels of folic acid and other essential nutrients regularly. If the pin pricks on your nails persist or worsen, it would be advisable to consult with a dermatologist for further evaluation and management.

Answered 04/07/2025