Vitamin D supplement are typically used by people with a calcium deficiency. The body uses vitamin D to help the body absorb calcium. As with any supplement, you may experience an allergic reaction when taking the supplement. A vitamin D allergy is not considered common. If you experience adverse reactions after taking a vitamin D supplement, call your doctor. In rare cases a vitamin D allergic reaction could lead to death.
Vitamin D Allergy
A vitamin D allergy occurs when your immune system fails to recognize the supplement as a safe substance. The body overreacts and begins to attack the vitamin D supplement by creating antibodies and histamine, according to MedlinePlus. These increased chemicals in the body lead to inflammation and irritation of soft tissue, leading to common symptoms of a vitamin D allergy. If you have an allergic reaction to a vitamin D supplement, that doesn't mean you cannot eat food naturally containing the vitamin.
Symptoms
Symptoms related to an allergic reaction to vitamin D include itchiness, headaches, general fatigue, asthma, wheezing, sniffling, nasal congestion, skin rashes and a runny nose, according to Health Tree. You may also experience digestive complications, such as stomach pain, cramping, bloating, nausea, gas, diarrhea and vomiting. Most symptoms will develop within a few minutes after taking the vitamin D supplement, but could take up to an hour.
Overdose Consideration
Drugs.com warns that an overdose of vitamin D can cause similar symptoms as an allergic reaction. If you suspect that you've overdosed on vitamin D, seek emergency attention immediately by either calling 911 or going to the emergency room. An overdose is a serious consideration that could be life-threatening. Overdose symptoms include dry mouth, vomiting, change in heart rate, weakness, headache, nausea, itchy skin, confusion and a metallic taste in the mouth.
Severe Reaction
You may experience a severe allergic reaction while taking vitamin D supplements. Anaphylaxis occurs when extreme levels of histamine are released throughout the body, causing the airways to close, your heart rate to increase and your blood pressure to drop. A severe allergic reaction to vitamin D may require an injection of epinephrine, according to MedlinePlus. If you have a known allergy to vitamin D, carry an epinephrine pen on you.
Treatment
Common allergy symptoms may be treated with an antihistamine. An antihistamine will block the body's ability to produce histamine, reducing inflammation and alleviating minor allergy symptoms. Topical steroid creams can be used to treat skin reactions, such as hives and eczema.
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