Vitamin D Deficiency: Symptoms, Causes, Tests and Treatments

The skeletal system of our body is also the framework on which each muscle and nerve is attached. Therefore, it is extremely necessary to ensure that the bones within the skeletal system are in the best shape. Vitamin D is the most important nutrient that should be included in the daily diet of every individual, irrespective of age. Here is all the necessary information about the deficiency of vitamin D, its causes, symptoms and the best ways to treat the deficiency.

Introduction to Vitamins

Vitamins are considered to be essential nutrients for the body as they are created in negligible amounts. Due to such a situation, it is important to consume them in adequate amounts to reduce the chances of deficiency, especially of Vitamin D. Counted along with other Vitamins A, E and K that are fat-soluble, Vitamin D is available from a wide range of sources like animal foods, supplements, fortified food and ample amount of sunlight. It is important to keep in mind that there are specific limits for people to consume. The points below will help in understanding the specific amounts that are permissible for consumption:

• From birth to 1 year - 400 IU
• From 1 to 13 years of age – 600 IU
• From 14 to 18 years of age – 600 IU
• From 19 to 70 years of age – 600 IU
• From 71 years and above – 800 IU

Apart from the above levels for a normal human being, the intake level for pregnant and lactating women should also be 600 IU. It is also necessary for people with a pre-existing condition where they have a deficiency of Vitamin D. In such a situation, it is advisable for the affected individual to get their Vitamin D levels tested. 

Causes of Vitamin D Deficiency

There are several causes of Vitamin D deficiency as can be understood with the help of the points mentioned here:

1. Inadequate amounts of Vitamin D in regular diet
2. Insufficient amount of sunlight exposure for Vitamin D
3. Deficiency of Vitamin D due to specific medical conditions
4. Medication and weight-loss surgeries that can lead to the deficiency of Vitamin D

 

Apart from the above, Vitamin D deficiency causes, other environmental or biological issues can also lead to a lack of Vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency can also be caused due to age. All of the above causes can lead to a low amount of Vitamin D in the body. 

Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency

Now that the causes that lead to the deficiency of Vitamin D have been discussed, it is important to understand Vitamin D symptoms. It will be helpful for the individual as well as their healthcare provider to prescribe a test for Vitamin D levels. It is important to remember that the symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency can differ in children and adults. The low Vitamin D symptoms in children are commonly observed through rickets that cause:

• Joint deformities
• Weakened muscles
• Pain in the bones
• Improper growth caused due to bent or bowed bones

However, it is important to remember that mild symptoms of vitamin D deficiency are often visible through the following:

• Weakness or soreness
• Painful muscles

Among adults, the most common signs of Vitamin D deficiency are as follows:

• Mood changes
• Fatigue
• Pain in the bones
• Cramps, aches or weakness in the muscles

If the individual has been prescribed a test to detect Vitamin D levels in the body, B Lal Labs is the best diagnostic centre. The diagnostic experts ensure that each test is completed with the help of the latest technology and equipment. Due to such high standards, they provide true results of the test for low Vitamin D.  

Treatment for Vitamin D Deficiency

The main goal of getting a deficiency of vitamin D test done at the closest B Lal diagnostic centre is the treatment and maintenance. After the test results of the vitamin d levels have been provided to the affected individual, the primary healthcare provider will prescribe a course of action so that any Vitamin D deficiency disease can be prevented. Depending on the type of vitamin D deficiency, the healthcare provider will ensure that you get the specific supplement to improve the low Vitamin D levels. 

 

Dr. B. Lal Lab was established in 1991 with the goal to provide the best medical services without any interruptions. Delivering the highest possible level of healthcare services, we have a network with more than 100 collection centres and 11 regional laboratories. Our quick processing of samples ensures that the affected individuals can get proper treatment from their primary healthcare provider if they have a deficiency of vitamin D in their bodies.