From time to time it may become necessary to supplement your diet using vitamin supplements. Malnutrition and illness that affect fat absorption may contribute to vitamin deficiencies such as vitamin D deficiency. This can lead some people to blindly take large doses of vitamin D, which can result in vitamin D toxicity.
Identification
Hypervitaminosis D or vitamin D toxicity happens when too much vitamin D is taken. Vitamin D works in the body to strengthen and form the bones. Vitamin D also helps increase the absorption of calcium into the body. When you don't get an adequate level of vitamin D, you may suffer from vitamin D deficiency, which may cause a disease called rickets.
Causes
Hypervitaminosis D is almost always caused by taking vitamin D supplements, according to "The New York Times." Too Much vitamin D in the blood can increase calcium, which can cause damage to soft tissue, bones and the kidneys. Merck Manuals states that overdose usually occurs when doses of 50, 000 IU a day are taken for several months. Hypervitaminosis D can also occur when hypoparathyrodism is treated using large amounts of vitamin D.
Symptoms
Hypervitaminosis D can cause a condition called hypercalcemia, characterized by anorexia, nausea, vomiting, skin rash, frequent urination, excessive thirst, weakness, nervousness and kidney stones. In severe cases kidney damage or kidney failure can occur. People who have hypervitaminosis D may also complain of muscle weakness, irritability and fatigue.
Treatment
Before being treated for hypervitaminosis D you will be tested for excess calcium in the blood and urine, as well as vitamin D levels. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed you will be directed to immediately stop taking vitamin D supplements. In mild cases this is usually all that's necessary to reverse vitamin D toxicity. In severe cases you may have to be treated for dehydration, hypercalcemia, kidney damage or kidney stones. A full recovery is expected when treated promptly.
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