VITAMIN D TEST

What are the signs and symptoms of vitamin D deficiency?

Severe lack of vitamin D in children causes rickets. Symptoms of rickets include:

• Incorrect growth patterns due to bowed or bent bones.
• Muscle weakness.
• Bone pain.
• Deformities in joints.

This is very rare. Children with a mild vitamin deficiency may just have weak, sore and/or painful muscles.

Lack of vitamin D isn't quite as obvious in adults. Signs and symptoms might include:

• Fatigue.
• Bone pain.
• Muscle weakness, muscle aches or muscle cramps.
• Mood changes, like depression.

However, you may have no signs or symptoms of vitamin D deficiency.

What causes vitamin D deficiency?

In general, the two main causes of vitamin D deficiency are:

• Not getting enough vitamin D in your diet and/or through sunlight.
• Your body isn't properly absorbing or using vitamin D.

There are several specific causes of vitamin D deficiency, including:

• Certain medical conditions.
• Weight loss-surgeries.
• Certain medications.

Several different biological and environmental factors can also put you at a greater risk of developing vitamin D deficiency, such as older age and the amount of melanin (pigment) in your skin.

Medical conditions that can cause vitamin D deficiency

Medical conditions that can cause vitamin D deficiency include:

• Cystic fibrosis, Crohn's disease and celiac disease: These conditions can prevent your intestines from adequately absorbing enough vitamin D through supplements, especially if the condition is untreated.
• Obesity: A body mass index greater than 30 is associated with lower vitamin D levels. Fat cells keep vitamin D isolated so that it's not released. Obesity often requires taking larger doses of vitamin D sup...