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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

  5. Delayed Growth

  6. Throat and Chest Infections
  7. Poor Wound Healing
  8. Acne and Breakouts


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