Vitamin C Deficiency Diseases: List & Symptoms

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. It is a water-soluble vitamin that cannot be produced by the body, so it must be obtained through diet or supplements.

Vitamin C deficiency can lead to various diseases and health issues, affecting both physical and mental well-being.

In this article, we will explore the list of diseases associated with vitamin C deficiency and discuss their symptoms in detail. 

Scurvy is perhaps the most well-known disease caused by vitamin C deficiency. It is characterized by a range of symptoms that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

The lack of vitamin C leads to the breakdown of collagen, a protein essential for the formation of connective tissues, blood vessels, and skin.

As a result, individuals with scurvy may experience symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and joint pain [1]. One of the hallmark signs of scurvy is bleeding gums. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy gums and preventing gum disease.

Without an adequate supply of vitamin C, the gums become weak and prone to bleeding [3]. Other oral symptoms may include loose teeth and delayed wound healing.

In severe cases, scurvy can lead to anemia, as vitamin C is necessary for the absorption of iron from plant-based sources.

Vitamin C deficiency can also manifest in various skin problems. Individuals lacking vitamin C may experience easy bruising due to weakened blood vessels. Even minor bumps or injuries can result in extensive bruising, which may take longer to heal.

Additionally, bumpy skin, also known as hyperkeratosis, can occur as a result of vitamin C deficiency. This condition is characterized by rough, raised bumps on the skin, particularly on the back of the arms and thighs.

Furthermore, vitamin C deficiency can affect the overall appearance and health of the skin. As an antioxidant, vitamin C helps protect the skin from free radicals and oxidative stress. Adequate intake of vitamin C promotes collagen synthesis, which contributes to smoother, softer skin [4].

Therefore, a deficiency in this essential nutrient can lead to dry, rough, and prematurely aging skin.

Vitamin C deficiency can also impact the health of hair and nails. One of the noticeable signs of vitamin C deficiency is corkscrew hairs, which are twisted and coiled hairs that appear due to weakened hair follicles.

Perifollicular hemorrhages, or small bleeding spots around the hair follicles, can also occur. These hair-related symptoms are indicative of an underlying vitamin C deficiency.

Moreover, individuals lacking vitamin C may experience brittle nails that are prone to splitting and breaking.

The nails may become thin and develop ridges or lines [2]. These nail abnormalities can be a clear indication of insufficient vitamin C levels in the body.

Fatigue and weakness are common symptoms associated with vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C plays a vital role in energy production by facilitating the absorption of iron from plant-based foods.

Iron is necessary for the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Without sufficient vitamin C, iron absorption is impaired, leading to reduced oxygen transport and subsequent fatigue.

Additionally, vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of carnitine, a molecule that helps convert fat into energy. A deficiency in vitamin C can hinder this process, resulting in decreased energy levels and overall weakness.

Vitamin C deficiency can have a significant impact on overall health, leading to various diseases and symptoms. Scurvy, characterized by bleeding gums, fatigue, and joint pain, is the classic vitamin C deficiency disease.

Skin issues such as bruising, bumpy skin, and premature aging can also arise from inadequate vitamin C intake. Hair and nail problems, including corkscrew hairs and brittle nails, are additional signs of deficiency.

Lastly, fatigue and weakness can be attributed to the role of vitamin C in energy production. To prevent these diseases and symptoms, it is crucial to ensure an adequate intake of vitamin C through a balanced diet or supplements.