What are the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency?
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Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency
Muscle Pain and Weakness
One of the most common symptoms of vitamin D deficiency is muscle pain and weakness. This can manifest as general muscle aches, fatigue, and a decrease in muscle strength, which can lead to difficulties in performing daily activities and disturbances in gait1 2 10. In severe cases, this myopathy can be quite debilitating, causing significant discomfort and mobility issues1 2.
Bone Pain and Osteomalacia
Vitamin D deficiency can lead to osteomalacia in adults, a condition characterized by deep bone pain and reduced bone mineralization. This can result in low-energy fractures and generalized bone aches, particularly in the lower back, ribs, and thighs1 2 4. The pain is often throbbing and can be elicited by applying pressure to specific areas such as the sternum or tibia6. In children, severe deficiency can cause rickets, leading to bone deformities and growth delays7.
Fatigue and General Weakness
Fatigue is another prevalent symptom associated with vitamin D deficiency. Patients often report a general sense of tiredness and lack of energy, which can significantly impact their quality of life1 2 5. This symptom is particularly common among individuals with severe peripheral artery disease (PAD) and advanced cancer patients2 5.
Hypocalcemia and Associated Symptoms
Severe vitamin D deficiency can lead to hypocalcemia, a condition characterized by low levels of calcium in the blood. This can cause muscle spasms, convulsions in infants, and more generalized symptoms such as muscle cramps and tingling sensations4. Hypocalcemia is often accompanied by secondary hyperparathyroidism, which further exacerbates bone demineralization and pain2.
Cardiovascular Symptoms
In patients with essential arterial hypertension (EAH), vitamin D deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular symptoms such as heart pain, arrhythmias, and headaches. These patients also report higher incidences of sleep disturbances and general weakness3.
Depression and Mood Changes
Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with mood changes, including symptoms of depression. This is particularly noted in non-cancer patients but is also prevalent among advanced cancer patients experiencing fatigue and poor appetite5.
Conclusion
Vitamin D deficiency presents with a range of symptoms, from muscle pain and weakness to severe bone pain and fatigue. It can also lead to hypocalcemia, cardiovascular issues, and mood changes. Recognizing these symptoms early and addressing vitamin D deficiency through supplementation and dietary changes is crucial for improving overall health and quality of life.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Vitamin D deficiency and aging: implications for general health and osteoporosis
Vitamin D deficiency is common in the elderly and can cause muscle pain, fatigue, and osteomalacia, increasing the risk of cancer and other diseases associated with aging.
Highly CitedSunlight and vitamin D
Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent in patients with severe peripheral artery disease, leading to subtle symptoms like muscle pain, bone aches, and fatigue.
Rigorous JournalCLINICAL RISK FACTORS FOR SEVERE ESSENTIAL ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION IN PATIENTS WITH VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY
Vitamin D deficiency in patients with essential arterial hypertension is associated with severe clinical symptoms, including heart pain, arrhythmias, headaches, sleep disturbances, and fatigue, and increased risk of fatal cardiovascular risk.
Vitamin D deficiency in immigrants
Vitamin D deficiency is more common in non-western immigrants and refugees due to factors such as pigmented skin, skin covering, low calcium intake, and limited sunshine exposure.
Rigorous JournalPreliminary report: vitamin D deficiency in advanced cancer patients with symptoms of fatigue or anorexia.
Low vitamin D levels are highly prevalent in advanced cancer patients with fatigue or poor appetite, particularly in nonwhite and female patients, and in males with hypogonadism.
Rigorous JournalHighly CitedRecognition and management of vitamin D deficiency.
Vitamin D deficiency can cause symptoms like low back pain, muscle weakness, and aches, and can lead to fractures and falls.
Highly CitedTreatment of vitamin D deficiency in children
Vitamin D deficiency in children can be effectively treated with oral or injectable administration, promoting prevention and reducing rickets.
Systematic ReviewVitamin D insufficiency.
Vitamin D supplementation reduces the risk of fractures and falls in adults, with potential benefits for other health outcomes, but more controlled clinical trials are needed.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedEffects of a 2-Week 5000 IU versus 1000 IU Vitamin D3 Supplementation on Recovery of Symptoms in Patients with Mild to Moderate Covid-19: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Daily 5000 IU oral vitamin D3 supplementation for 2 weeks reduces the time to recovery for cough and gustatory sensory loss in patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 and suboptimal vitamin D status.
RCT
Very Rigorous JournalHighly CitedSunlight and vitamin D: both good for cardiovascular health.
Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in patients with severe peripheral artery disease, leading to subtle symptoms like muscle pain, bone aches, and fatigue, and can worsen osteoporosis and osteomalacia.
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