Getting adequate amounts of vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin synthesized in the skin when exposed to sunlight and also available in some foods, often requires taking supplements. Vitamin D helps maintain strong bones and may also play a part in preventing high blood pressure, some types of cancer and certain autoimmune diseases, the Mayo Clinic reports. If you have dark skin or live in the northern part of the United States, you may have a particularly difficult time getting enough vitamin D without supplements. Even supplements of a naturally occurring vitamin such as vitamin D can have side effects.
Nausea and Stomach Effects
The current maximum recommended dose of vitamin D, 2,000 International Units, or IU, may be too low, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. Two forms of vitamin D, ergocalciferol, also called vitamin D2 and cholecalciferol, vitamin D3 can be taken as supplements. Larger doses should not be taken without medical supervision. Common side effects of too much vitamin D include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, weight loss and loss of appetite. These symptoms occur when excess vitamin D leads to high calcium levels in the blood, called hypercalcemia.
Drowsiness and Dizziness
High calcium levels from excess vitamin D can also cause central nervous system disorders, including excessive sleepiness, dizziness, headache, ringing in the ears and ataxia, or unsteadiness, MayoClinic.com states.
Bone Loss
Even though calcium normally builds stronger bones, bone loss can also occur as a result of hypercalcemia and may be accompanied by bone pain. Muscle pain and weakness can also occur. Children may experience a decrease in growth, Drugs.com warns.
Kidney Damage
Excess vitamin D can also cause kidney damage. Symptoms include frequent urination, including urinating at night, excessive thirst, dry mouth from dehydration, high blood pressure and calcification in the kidneys. Renal failure can occur in severe cases, Drugs.com states.
Calcifications
Calcifications can occur in other organs and soft tissues as well as the kidneys, including the heart, blood vessels and lungs, Drugs.com warns. People with heart and kidney problems need to take special care when taking vitamin D supplements.
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