The National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements states that vitamin D is an essential nutrient for the human body. This fat-soluble vitamin that is not present in many foods enters the body primarily through sun exposure and in supplement form. When it enters the body, vitamin D facilitates calcium absorption in order to promote bone growth. Vitamin D also reduces inflammation and supports immunity and neuromuscular functions. However, vitamin D toxicity symptoms occur when people get too much of this nutrient. These conditions are rare because many people don't get enough vitamin D.
Hypercalcemia
The U.S. National Library of Medicine defines hypercalcemia as an overabundance of calcium in the blood. This symptom of vitamin D toxicity manifests itself in other conditions such as abdominal problems, kidney problems and, in severe cases, mental conditions like dementia and depression.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Vitamin D toxicity symptoms include gastrointestinal conditions like diarrhea, constipation, nausea and vomiting. These gastrointestinal symptoms lead to other complications because the body loses other valuable nutrients. Residual conditions include anorexia and excessive weight loss.
Polyuria and Polydipsia
The Diabetes Insipidus Foundation states that polyuria and polydipsia often work hand in hand as vitamin D toxicity symptoms. Polyuria is an over production of urine, and polydipsia in excessive thirst. This occurs because the vitamin D absorbs nutrients from the body.
Ischemic Heart Disease
The American Heart Association says that ischemic heart disease restricts blood flow to various parts of the body. This symptom of vitamin D toxicity can occur without warning. When blood flow is restricted from reaching the heart, people suffer serious heart conditions or even heart failure. Some people experience heart arrhythmia as a signal that the heart is not functioning properly.
Itching
Itching is a symptom of vitamin D toxicity. This occurs in conjunction with other symptoms like dehydration and gastrointestinal problems. Reduction or cessation of vitamin D intake helps clear this condition.
Kidney Problems
Kidney problems can develop from vitamin D toxicity. These symptoms include developing kidney stones, which disappear with the help of medication that reduces the size of the stones. Vitamin D toxicity also leads to serious kidney problems like renal failure.
Tags: