Vitamin A deficiency - causes, symptoms & treatment

A vitamin A deficiency occurs when the body is not supplied with enough of this nutrient. Find out all about the causes, symptoms and treatment of vitamin A deficiency.

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A vitamin A deficiency occurs when the body is not supplied with enough of this nutrient, which can be caused either by an insufficient dietary intake or by problems with vitamin A absorption.

Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that plays a central role in various bodily functions, particularly vision, the immune system and cell growth. A vitamin A deficiency can have far-reaching consequences for health, as vitamin A plays a key role in many biological processes.

Causes of vitamin A deficiency:

The most common causes of vitamin A deficiency are inadequate nutrition and malabsorption. This deficiency is particularly widespread in developing countries, where the diet often contains little vitamin A. Vitamin A-rich foods such as liver, dairy products, fish, carrots and green leafy vegetables are not always consumed in sufficient quantities. Diseases such as coeliac disease, chronic intestinal diseases or liver diseases can also lead to the body not being able to absorb or store vitamin A properly. The need for vitamin A is increased during pregnancy and breastfeeding, which is why women should pay particular attention to an adequate intake during this time.

Symptoms of a vitamin A deficiency:

A vitamin A deficiency can manifest itself in various ways. The first and most common signs include visual impairment, particularly night blindness, where vision is severely impaired in low light conditions. Other symptoms include dry skin, which can lead to dandruff, and a weakened immune system, which increases susceptibility to infections. In children, a lack of vitamin A can lead to stunted growth. Another sign is dehydration of the eyes, which can lead to severe damage to the cornea if left untreated.

Treatment:

Vitamin A deficiency is usually diagnosed by means of a blood test, which measures the concentration of retinol, the active form of vitamin A, in the blood. Symptoms such as night blindness can also be an important indicator. If there is a deficiency, the intake of vitamin A is increased, either through a targeted change in diet or by taking vitamin A supplements. In severe cases, the immediate administration of high doses of vitamin A may be necessary to avoid consequential damage to health. As a preventative measure, it is important to eat a balanced diet rich in vitamin A.