Signs & Symptoms of a Shortage of Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for maintaining normal levels of phosphorus and calcium in the blood. It also helps with calcium absorption and to maintain strong bones. Vitamin D may also protect against a variety of diseases and conditions, such as high blood pressure, several autoimmune diseases, osteoporosis, and cancer, says the Mayo Clinic. The signs and symptoms of vitamin D shortage, also referred to as a deficiency, aren't often easy to associate with this vitamin deficiency because they are so common.
Muscle Symptoms
A vitamin D shortage often causes muscle-related symptoms. Patients can experience muscle weakness or muscle aches, says Merck. How often these occur and how severe they are will vary.
Bone Symptoms
Vitamin D is essential for strong and healthy bones. If a deficiency occurs, the strength of the bones can become compromised. When bones are weak, they are more prone to fracture.
Sleep Symptoms
Problems with sleep can occur with a vitamin D deficiency. Symptoms such as sleep irregularities and fatigue can occur, says Women to Women. These sleep disturbances can lead to low energy.
Mood Symptoms
This vitamin shortage can also affect mood. Patients can experience mood swings and symptoms of depression. There are more than a dozen depression symptoms. Some of the common symptoms are persistent sadness, restlessness, trouble concentrating, fatigue, persistent aches, memory problems, headaches, loss of interest and eating habit changes, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
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