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WELLNESS / Vitamin A Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Vitamin A Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Vitamin A is essential for good vision, a strong immune system, and overall health.

What Causes Vitamin A Deficiency?
Several factors can contribute to this condition:
- Inadequate dietary intake – A diet low in vitamin A-rich foods, such as dairy, eggs, fish, and leafy greens, can lead to deficiency.
- Poor absorption – Certain medical conditions, including liver disease, cystic fibrosis, and inflammatory bowel disease, can prevent the body from absorbing vitamin A effectively.
- Increased demand – The body’s need for vitamin A increases during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and periods of illness or infection.
- Prolonged malnutrition – Individuals experiencing chronic malnutrition or consuming diets lacking in fats, proteins, and essential vitamins may struggle to maintain adequate vitamin A levels, increasing the risk of deficiency over time.
- Alcohol-related liver damage – The liver stores vitamin A, and excessive alcohol consumption can impair storage and metabolism, leading to deficiency even if dietary intake is sufficient.

What Are the Symptoms of Vitamin A Deficiency?
Vitamin A deficiency can cause a range of symptoms, affecting vision, skin, and the immune system. The severity of symptoms depends on how long the deficiency has been present and how low vitamin A levels have dropped.

Common Symptoms
Night blindness
Dry eyes (xerophthalmia)
Bitot’s spots
Increased risk of infections
Other Possible Symptoms
Dry, rough skin
Delayed growth in children
Reproductive issues
If left untreated, vitamin A deficiency can lead to severe eye problems, including corneal ulcers and permanent vision loss.

How Is Vitamin A Deficiency Diagnosed?
Diagnosing vitamin A deficiency involves assessing symptoms, medical history, dietary intake, and laboratory tests. Since deficiency-related symptoms can overlap with other conditions, a thorough evaluation is essential for an accurate diagnosis.
- Medical History and Physical Examination
- Blood Tests
- Eye Examinations

What Are the Treatment Options for Vitamin A Deficiency?
Vitamin A deficiency is treated by restoring adequate levels through diet, supplements, and addressing any underlying causes. The treatment approach depends on the severity of the deficiency and the person’s overall health.
- Dietary Changes
- Vitamin A Supplements
In cases where diet alone is not enough, vitamin A supplements may be prescribed. These are available in different forms, such as:
Oral supplements – Capsules or liquid drops, usually recommended for mild to moderate deficiency.
High-dose supplements – Given in cases of severe deficiency, particularly for children and pregnant women in high-risk areas. These are typically administered under medical supervision to avoid toxicity.
Injections – Used in rare cases where absorption through the digestive system is impaired due to underlying health conditions.