Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin found in dairy products and fish. The human body can also make its own vitamin D during sun exposure. Vitamin D balances the levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body, and it is necessary to develop strong bones and teeth. Deficiencies of vitamin D are uncommon, but MayoClinic.com indicates that the elderly, the obese and exclusively breast-fed infants are most at risk.
Rickets
Rickets is a childhood disease that causes soft, weak and easily broken bones due to inadequate vitamin D intake. Vitamin D regulates the amounts of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. If blood does not contain enough vitamin D to ensure proper calcium and phosphorus levels, the bones will release the calcium and phosphorus stored in them. FamilyDoctor.org indicates that very young children are at highest risk for rickets due to rapid bone growth. Children with rickets will have delayed growth, bowed legs and pain. Rickets is treated by adding sufficient vitamin D to the diet. Since breast milk does not contain enough vitamin D, mothers will usually need to provide a vitamin D supplement to their babies if exclusively breast-feeding.
Osteomalacia
Osteomalacia is a disease of vitamin D deficiency in adults. It results from dietary deficiency of vitamin D, inadequate sunlight or disorders that prevent the body's absorption of vitamin D. Osteomalacia causes soft and weak bones, pain, muscle weakness and fractures. Sufferers can usually find relief by increasing vitamin D in the diet or taking a supplement. According to the Cleveland Clinic, individuals with intestinal absorption issues may have to consume larger quantities of vitamin D for the body to absorb a proper amount. Severe cases may require leg braces or surgery to correct deformities.
Secondary Hyperparathyroidism
Parathyroid hormone is another chemical that helps to maintain blood levels of calcium. Discovery Health indicates that it controls calcium release from the bone and absorption of calcium from the gut. Hyperparathyroidism results when there is too much of the hormone in the blood, leading to excessive release of calcium from the bones and intestines. Vitamin D deficiency can cause secondary hyperparathyroidism indirectly because of the resulting low levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. When these levels become low, the parathyroid gland secretes more hormone to cause the bones and intestines to release more calcium and phosphorus into the blood. Symptoms include bone deformities and increased fractures. Patients suffering from vitamin D deficiency-induced secondary hyperparathyroidism can remedy the condition by increasing vitamin D intake or correcting absorption problems.
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