Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that can be consumed through the diet or produced by skin cells exposed to sunlight. The main function of vitamin D is to help your body absorb calcium, notes MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. Men suffering from a deficiency of vitamin D develop a disease called osteomalacia, which is characterized by softening and weakening of the bones. Osteomalacia can present with a variety of symptoms.
Bone Fractures
A deficiency in vitamin D weakens the bones. Men suffering from vitamin D deficiency may experience increased frequency of fractured bones, reports MayoClinic.com. Bone fractures are even more likely to happen to men who often play contact sports or work in jobs requiring physical labor. Without vitamin D to help you absorb calcium, your body is forced to extract calcium from your bones. This extraction of calcium makes your bones too weak to endure the stress of physical activity. Even slight injuries can cause bone fractures in men suffering from chronic vitamin D deficiency.
Joint Pain
Men with serious vitamin D deficiency often complain of generalized pain in their joints, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This pain is caused by the destruction of bone in the affected joints. As the bone degrades, the joint is unable to bend easily, and there may be inflammation in the affected area. This can lead to pain and discomfort when moving the joints.
Arrhythmias
Vitamin D deficiency can cause a precipitous drop in calcium levels throughout the body. In some cases, this can lead to the development of abnormal heartbeats, or arrhythmias, states the New York Times Health Guide. Calcium is required for the proper contraction of all muscles, including the muscle tissue of the heart. Without calcium, the heart is unable to beat as effectively or at the right pace. Arrhythmias can be life threatening, so patients suffering from vitamin D deficiency should seek medical attention.
Muscle Weakness
A general feeling of muscle weakness is a common side effect of vitamin D deficiency and osteomalacia, according to MayoClinic.com. You will often notice a slight decrease in your muscle tone and experience weakness in your arms and legs. The weakness may barely be noticeable at first, but can progress quickly. In severe cases, the weakness may interfere with your ability to perform normal daily tasks.
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