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Vitamin D Deficiency

A common vitamin deficiency resulting from inadequate sunlight exposure and insufficient dietary intake.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Vitamin D Deficiency?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight and also obtainable from the diet. It plays a critical role in bone mineralization by regulating calcium and phosphorus absorption in the intestines and also affects the immune system, muscle function, and cell proliferation.

In Turkey and many other countries, a significant portion of the population has vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency. The main risk factors are inadequate sunlight exposure, covered clothing, dark skin, older age, obesity, and malabsorption.

Severe vitamin D deficiency causes rickets in children and osteomalacia (bone pain and weakness) in adults, as well as predisposing to osteoporosis. Diagnosis is based on 25-OH vitamin D measurement, and the majority of cases can be corrected with oral supplementation.

Symptoms

Fatigue and general weakness
Bone pain and tenderness
Muscle weakness and pain
Frequent recurrent respiratory tract infections
Depression and mood changes
Hair loss
Rickets (in children) or osteomalacia (in adults) in severe deficiency

Risk Factors

Inadequate sunlight exposure (indoor work, winter months)
Covered clothing and sunscreen use
Dark skin (lower vitamin D synthesis)
Obesity (vitamin D is retained in fat tissue)
Malabsorption (celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease)
Older age (reduced skin synthesis)
Vegan diet (limited dietary sources from animal products)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Unexplained bone pain and muscle weakness
  • Frequent recurrent infections
  • For screening in individuals with osteoporosis or high fracture risk
  • If 25-OH vitamin D is found to be below 20 ng/mL
  • For vitamin D monitoring in malabsorption or chronic kidney disease

Treatment Methods

01
Oral vitamin D supplementation (D3 form is more effective: 1000-4000 IU/day; target 30-60 ng/mL)
02
Loading doses in severe deficiency (50 000 IU weekly for 8-12 weeks)
03
15-30 minutes of daily sunlight exposure to the face and arms
04
Increasing vitamin D-rich foods (fatty fish, egg yolk, fortified milk)
05
Ensuring adequate calcium intake
06
Optimizing treatment of any underlying malabsorption

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.