Vitamin and mineral deficiencies cause a range of symptoms. Inadequate amounts of vitamin D may result in a condition known as osteomalacia. Pain in the legs is one of the main symptoms of osteomalacia. Without proper treatment, a vitamin D deficiency may cause a decrease in muscle tone and limit your ability to get around.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that your body manufactures through exposure to sunlight. People with darker skin absorb ultraviolet rays and produce vitamin D quicker than people with dark skin. As you age, your body produces less vitamin D from the sunlight. Certain foods such as cod liver oil, eggs, salmon, tuna and herring also contain vitamin D.
Deficiency
People who receive minimal exposure to sunlight, as well as elderly individuals, are at an increased risk of vitamin D deficiency. Certain medications including antacids and anti-seizure drugs can increase your risk of developing a vitamin D deficiency. Pain is one of the main symptoms of osteomalacia. Your muscles and bones can cause a burning pain or achiness in your legs. Other common symptoms include pain in the lower spine, hips and ribs. Celiac disease, kidney problems and liver disease can increase your risk of developing a vitamin D deficiency.
Prevention
Spending time in the sunshine is one of the most effective ways to prevent a vitamin D deficiency. Fair-skinned people require approximately 45 minutes per week in the sunlight, while dark-skinned individuals often require up to three hours. Eating a diet that contains fatty fish and drinking fortified milk can help prevent vitamin D deficiencies. Many multiple vitamin supplements supply varying amounts of vitamin D, but you should consult your doctor to determine whether you need to take a vitamin supplement. Vitamin D supplements may interfere with certain medications such as statin drugs, corticosteroids and calcium channel blockers.
Treatment
Contact your doctor if you experience continual or recurrent pain in your legs, especially if you think you may have a vitamin D deficiency. A simple blood test can reveal the presence of vitamin deficiencies. Your doctor may need to treat an underlying medical condition that contributes to the deficiency, such as primary biliary cirrhosis or kidney failure. Treatments for vitamin D deficiency include vitamin D injections and supplements.
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