Symptoms and treatment methods of vitamin A deficiency

Lack of vitamin A may lead to symptoms such as night blindness, dry skin, and corneal softening, which can be improved by adjusting diet and supplementing vitamin A preparations. Vitamin A deficiency is usually caused by insufficient intake, absorption disorders, increased consumption, liver disease, genetic metabolic abnormalities, and other reasons.

1. Night blindness

Night blindness is an early typical manifestation of vitamin A deficiency, where patients experience significant visual impairment in dimly lit environments. Vitamin A is involved in the synthesis of rhodopsin in the retina, and its deficiency can lead to a decrease in dark adaptation ability. Mild night blindness can be alleviated by adding foods rich in vitamin A, such as animal liver and dark vegetables. Severe cases should follow medical advice to take vitamin A soft capsules and other preparations.

2. Dry skin

Vitamin A deficiency can cause excessive keratinization of the skin, manifested as follicular papules on the extended limbs, rough and flaky skin. This situation is related to the impaired regulation of epithelial cell differentiation function by vitamin A. It is recommended to consume moderate amounts of broccoli, carrots, and other foods daily, while avoiding excessive cleansing of the skin. If accompanied by cracking and bleeding, vitamin A cream should be used as an adjuvant treatment.

3. Corneal softening

Severe vitamin A deficiency may cause corneal dryness and softening, initially manifested as conjunctival dry spots, and in the advanced stage, corneal ulcers or even perforation may occur. This situation is common in patients with long-term diarrhea or liver and gallbladder diseases. In addition to emergency supplementation of vitamin A injection, it is necessary to treat the primary disease simultaneously and use antibiotic eye ointment to prevent infection.

4. Delayed growth and development

Vitamin A deficiency in children can affect bone growth and immune function, manifested as slow growth in height and weight, and recurrent infections. This is related to the role of vitamin A in protein synthesis and lymphocyte differentiation. It is recommended that parents regularly provide their children with foods such as egg yolks and whole milk, and if necessary, use vitamin AD drops under the guidance of a doctor.

5. Abnormal reproductive function

Long term vitamin A deficiency may lead to reproductive system symptoms such as reduced sperm production and menstrual disorders. Vitamin A plays an important role in sex hormone synthesis and maintenance of reproductive epithelium. Adult patients should ensure the intake of animal organs, cod liver oil and other foods, and women should pay special attention to monitoring serum retinol levels during pregnancy.

To prevent vitamin A deficiency, it is necessary to maintain a balanced diet and consume moderate amounts of foods rich in vitamin A daily, such as pork liver, spinach, pumpkin, etc. Patients with chronic diarrhea or liver and gallbladder diseases should regularly check their vitamin A levels to avoid blind high-dose supplementation leading to poisoning. Special populations such as children and pregnant women are advised to develop personalized supplementation plans under the guidance of nutritionists, while also paying attention to the synergistic effects of vitamin A, vitamin D, zinc, and other nutrients.