Vitamin K is an important nutrient for the body's coagulation mechanisms. When you get cut or sustain trauma, vitamin K is part of a cascade of reactions that work to form a clot and prevent continuing bleeding. Vitamin K deficiency can interfere with this process, which can lead to a hematoma, a collection of blood outside of the blood vessels.
Sources
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means that, after it is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, the body can store it within the liver and the fatty tissues. Fat-soluble vitamins are eliminated slowly from the body, as compared to water-soluble vitamins, which are not stored and need to be replaced regularly. According to MedlinePlus, sources of vitamin K in the diet are green leafy vegetables such as spinach and collards; Brussels sprouts, broccoli and cabbage; and fish, liver and meat.
Causes
Because it is stored within the body's fat, vitamin K deficiency is rare. According to the Colorado State University, it can occur in people who have conditions that impair the absorption of nutrients from the gastrointestinal tract. Examples include patients with cystic fibrosis, Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The bacteria in your intestines help process vitamin K, so people on long-term antibiotic therapy that kills these bacteria are also at risk for developing vitamin K deficiency. Newborn babies are born without these bacteria, so they also can develop vitamin K deficiency.
Symptoms
Vitamin K deficiency results in easy bleeding and bruising, including the formation of hematomas. Symptoms include nosebleeds; gum bleeding, even while doing normal things such as chewing; blood in the stool and in the urine; and heavier and longer than usual menstrual periods. Newborns can develop intracranial bleeds and boys who are circumcised can have continuing oozing and bleeding from the circumcision site. Hematomas can form on the legs, the arms and the chest, even with the slightest trauma. Bleeding and hematomas can also form within muscles and joints.
Treatment
Oral supplementation for those able to absorb vitamin K from their gut helps decrease the symptoms of vitamin K deficiency. For those who have problems with malabsorption, for those with active uncontrolled bleeding and hematomas, and for newborn infants, vitamin K injections may be necessary. The treatment for hematomas depends on their location. Skin hematomas heal on their own with rest, some ice and elevation, if it is on an extremity. Intracranial hematomas and those in other areas, such as muscles or joints, may need surgical drainage.
Member Comments