Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin A Deficiency

• Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important for many bodily functions, including proper vision, a strong immune system, reproduction and good skin health.

• There are two types of vitamin A found in foods:

1. Provitamin A
2. Preformed vitamin A

• Peformed vitamin A is also known as retinol and commonly found in meat, fish, eggs and dairy products.
• On the other hand, the body converts carotenoids in plant foods, such as red, green, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, into vitamin A
• Those at highest risk of deficiency are pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, infants and children. Cystic fibrosis and chronic diarrhea may also increase your risk of deficiency.

Here are 8 signs and symptoms of vitamin A deficiency.

1. Dry Skin
• Vitamin A is important for the creation and repair of skin cells. It also helps fight inflammation due to certain skin issues 
• Not getting enough vitamin A may be to blame for the development of eczema and other skin problems 
• Eczema is a condition that causes dry, itchy and inflamed skin. Several clinical studies have shown alitretinoin, a prescription medication with vitamin A activity, to be effective in treating eczema
• Keep in mind that dry skin can have many causes, but chronic vitamin A deficiency may be the reason.
2. Dry Eyes
• Vitamin A deficiency can lead to dry eyes, blindness or dying corneas, also known as Bitot’s spots. One of the first signs of deficiency is often an inability to produce tears.
3. Night Blindness
• Getting adequate amounts of vitamin A is crucial for eye health. Some of the first signs of vitamin A deficiency are dry eyes and night blindness.
4. Infertility and Trouble Conceiving

• Vitamin A is necessary for reproduction in both men and women, as well as proper development in babies.

• Other research suggests that infertile men may have a greater need for antioxidants due to higher levels of oxidative stress in their bodies. Vitamin A is one of the nutrients that acts as an antioxidant in the body

• Vitamin A deficiency is also related to miscarriages.

5. Delayed Growth

• Children who do not get enough vitamin A may experience stunted growth. This is because vitamin A is necessary for the proper development of the human body.

6. Throat and Chest Infections
• Vitamin A supplements may protect underweight children from infections but increase the risk of infection in other groups. Adults with high blood levels of vitamin A may experience fewer throat and chest infections
7. Poor Wound Healing

• Oral and topical forms of vitamin A can promote wound healing, especially in populations that are prone to wounds.

8. Acne and Breakouts

• Acne has been associated with low vitamin A levels. Both oral and topical forms of vitamin A are often effective at treating acne but may have unwanted side effects.