Common Vitamin D Deficiency Symptoms in Children and Adults

Vitamin D is one of the most important minerals that the body needs for proper growth and development. This vitamin is readily available through intake of milk and from the sun. It plays a vital role in strengthening bones by acting as a catalyst for calcium. Despite the ease with which it can be obtained, some people still exhibit vitamin D deficiency symptoms due to various reasons.

Vitamin D deficiency symptoms tend to vary between adults and children. The most common symptom found in children is soft bones. Severe deficiency in most cases leads to bow-legged children. This condition is known as rickets. Moreover, such children tend to complain of bone and muscle pains. 

Stunted growth in children is also one of the major signs of vitamin D deficiency. Additionally, such children will certainly experience problems when it comes to walking due to feeble bones. Since teeth require calcium for development, children who do not have sufficient levels of vitamin D will have difficulties when it comes to teething. Teething which is meant to take place between 6-9 months will happen after about a year in such children and the teeth may be smaller than normal. 

Respiratory problems are also commonly attributed to low levels of vitamin D amongst children. This is mainly so because of the weak chest muscles and bones. Muscle cramps and seizures can also be observed in children with the deficiency. Urgent medical help should be sought for children who start experiencing these symptoms. 

In adults, vitamin D deficiency symptoms may include tiredness even though the person has not carried out any strenuous activities. Body aches and pains are also some of the common signs that indicate deficiency in vitamin D. Generally, the affected individual feels unwell although they may not exhibit a fever. Osteomalacia is usually one of the giveaway signs of this deficiency in adults. Normally, the person will easily experience bone fractures. Moreover, there is general weakness in muscles to the extent of not being able to walk properly. Pains in areas around the pelvis, lower back and ribs are also strongly attributed to severe vitamin D deficiency in adults.
 

Inflammation of joints and possible damage of cartilage is also one of the common symptoms of lack of vitamin D in adults. Although most of these symptoms can easily be identified, it is also important to note that some diseases and medical conditions are also related to this deficiency. Heart diseases, high blood pressure and headaches are also known to be associated with deficiencies in this vital mineral. Depression and gout are also some of the medical conditions that highlight low levels of vitamin D in the body. 

Although some of the vitamin D deficiency symptoms can be devastating, overcoming this deficiency is quite easy. Foods and supplements rich in Vitamin D can be used for mild deficiency while injections of the mineral can be administered for extreme cases. To be safe, it is important to have exposure to sunlight regularly since it is the easiest means to replenishing the body’s vitamin D levels.

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