Out of all the key vitamins and minerals, Vitamin D is critical for optimal function within several systems throughout the human body. Exposure to the sun’s rays produces this vital vitamin in the skin. This backbone of human health is essential for the building up of strong bones, as well as support for the brain, heart, and lungs. Don't forget about the steady maintenance of the immune system.
However, getting enough of this vitamin is not always an easy feat. People develop vitamin D deficiency when their usual intakes of the sunshine vitamin are lower than the recommended levels. According to medical experts, the need for a sufficient supply of vitamin D is more critical now than ever before. The signs may be more subtle than obvious, but there are clear signs your patient has a vitamin D deficiency. Let’s take a closer look at the most common symptoms.
Visible Fatigue and Unexpected Weakness
Symptoms within an individual can vary due to personal situations and the severity of the deficiency. Many times this lack leads to a constant feeling of exhaustion or weakness. Individuals may also have a hard time falling asleep or staying asleep at night. Due to tiredness resulting from a variety of factors in one’s hectic life, people often overlook vitamin D deficiency as a potential cause.
Bone, Back, or Joint Aches and Pains
Everyone can have sore muscles from time to time. However, if back pain is a constant presence in someone’s life, there may be inadequate vitamin D levels in their blood. Former research studies have found a connection between vitamin D deficiencies and chronic lower back pain.
A battle of bone, joint, or rib pain are other potential signs your patient has a vitamin D deficiency. These random aches and painful tenderness may be a sign of osteomalacia. Osteomalacia causes a painful weakening in the joints and muscles. This condition is a more severe complication of deficiency that can lead to bone fractures if left untreated.
Depression or Changes In Mood
Vitamin D receptors help regulate one’s mood, creating a linkage between depression and the shortage of Vitamin D. The vitamin works within the same areas of the brain that control mood. According to modern experts, a deficiency impacts the production of feel-good hormones such as dopamine and serotonin. These hormones highly affect one’s mood, especially when it comes to seasonal depression.
Testing for Vitamin D Deficiency
The most accurate method to test for a vitamin D deficiency is through a blood test. After measuring how much vitamin D is in the body, the results will clearly paint a picture of an adequate intake level or a lack of a recommended level.
Here at American Screening Corp, we supply a blood spot test to check for vitamin D deficiency. Within our various offerings of clinical lab supplies, our deficiency testing kits are top-notch products. These testing kits are highly comprehensive and rapidly accurate to provide answers with speed and ease. Browse the collection of products in our online shop today for your facility or patient needs. Feel free to contact us with any questions. We’re here to help!
