Vitamin D Deficiency
Summary
Vitamin D is critical to bone healing as it has multiple direct and indirect effects on bone healing. A deficiency of Vitamin D predisposes to higher rates of non-union following fractures and fusion surgery. Vitamin D is generated naturally within the body in response to sunlight (UV light). Therefore, individuals who have less exposure to sunlight due to their climate or lifestyle are at risk for Vitamin D deficiency. In addition to increasing exposure to sunlight, Vitamin D levels can be increased via supplementation or diet.
Importance of Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for maintaining the health of bones and increasing absorption of dietary calcium. Studies also show that vitamin D plays a role in fighting infection and reducing inflammation. Vitamin D is produced naturally by the body in response to exposure to the UV light from the sun. Several foods such as salmon and mushrooms naturally contain vitamin D. Other foods such as milk, and juices commonly have vitamin D added.
Causes and Risk Factors
Vitamin D deficiency is a very common condition that most frequently results from low exposure to the sun. This can also be the case for individuals with darker skin or who use sunscreen excessively. Deficiency of vitamin D can also occur because of low intake, or inability to absorb adequate nutrients. Examples of conditions that impair nutrient absorption are celiac, Crohn’s disease, or cystic fibrosis. Conditions that affect the liver or kidneys as well as genetic conditions can impair the conversion of vitamin D to its active form. Very little vitamin D is naturally found in breast milk. As such infants who are only fed breast milk may become deficient without supplementation.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms are often not obvious and include fatigue, bone pain, muscle cramps or weakness, and mood changes. In more severe cases individuals may develop osteoporosis or other conditions related to weakened bones.
In children, severe vitamin D deficiency causes rickets. While rare in developed countries, rickets shows up as joint and bone deformities, delayed growth, and bone and muscle pain.
Treatment
If signs or symptoms of vitamin D deficiency are present, a blood test can confirm the vitamin deficiency.
Treatment generally consists of initially high doses of vitamin D to quickly correct blood levels. A lower maintenance dose is then used to maintain the level of vitamin D.
Edited March 13th, 2021