Vitamin A Deficiency: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Vitamin A is essential for good vision, a strong immune system, and overall health. It is present in foods such as carrots, leafy greens, and dairy products, making it easy to obtain through a well-balanced diet. However, some people may not get enough due to poor nutrition, malabsorption disorders, or other health conditions. A prolonged deficiency can lead to serious health issues, including vision problems and a weakened immune response. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment of vitamin A deficiency may help in prevention and early detection. This blog explores these aspects in detail.

What Causes Vitamin A Deficiency?

Vitamin A deficiency occurs when the body does not receive enough of this vital nutrient or struggles to absorb it properly. Several factors can contribute to this condition:

• Inadequate dietary intake – A diet low in vitamin A-rich foods, such as dairy, eggs, fish, and leafy greens, can lead to deficiency. This is more common in areas where access to nutritious foods is limited or in people following highly restrictive diets.
• Poor absorption – Certain medical conditions, including liver disease, cystic fibrosis, and inflammatory bowel disease, can prevent the body from absorbing vitamin A effectively. Since vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, conditions that affect fat absorption, such as chronic diarrhoea or pancreatic disorders, may also contribute to deficiency.
• Increased demand – The body’s need for vitamin A increases during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and periods of illness or infection. If intake does not meet this higher demand, deficiency may develop.
• Prolonged malnutrition – Individuals experiencing chronic malnutrition or consuming diets lacking in fats, proteins, and essential vitamins may struggle to maintain adequate vitamin A levels, increasing the risk of deficiency over time.
• Alcohol-related liver damage – The liver stores vitamin A, and excessive alcohol consumption can impair storage and metabolism, leading to deficiency even if dietary intake is sufficient.

What Are the Symptoms of Vitamin A Deficiency?

Vitamin A deficiency can cause a range of symptoms, affecting vision, skin, and the immune system. The severity of symptoms depends on how long the deficiency has been present and how low vitamin A levels have dropped.

Common Symptoms

• Night blindness – Difficulty seeing in low light or darkness is often one of the earliest signs.
• Dry eyes (xerophthalmia) – The eyes may feel dry, irritated, or unable to produce enough tears, which can lead to further complications.
• Bitot’s spots – Small, foamy, white patches on the whites of the eyes, caused by a buildup of keratin.
• Increased risk of infections – A weakened immune system may lead to frequent colds, respiratory infections, or delayed wound healing.

Other Possible Symptoms

• Dry, rough skin – The skin may become flaky or develop small bumps due to poor cell regeneration.
• Delayed growth in children – Vitamin A is essential for proper development, and a deficiency can slow growth.
• Reproductive issues – In severe cases, deficiency may affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

If left untreated, vitamin A deficiency can lead to severe eye problems, including corneal ulcers and permanent vision loss. 

How Is Vitamin A Deficiency Diagnosed?

Diagnosing vitamin A deficiency involves assessing symptoms, medical history, dietary intake, and laboratory tests. Since deficiency-related symptoms can overlap with other conditions, a thorough evaluation is essential for an accurate diagnosis.

Medical History and Physical Examination

A doctor will ask about dietary habits, existing health conditions, and any signs of malabsorption, such as chronic diarrhoea or liver disease. A physical examination may include checking for dry skin, frequent infections, slow wound healing, and characteristic eye changes, such as Bitot’s spots or corneal dryness.

Blood Tests

The most common diagnostic test is a serum retinol blood test, which measures vitamin A levels in the body. However, since levels can temporarily drop during infections or inflammation, doctors may also consider other factors, such as overall nutritional status and symptoms.

Eye Examinations

For individuals with vision-related symptoms, an eye specialist may conduct tests to assess night blindness and look for structural changes in the eyes, such as corneal damage, dryness, or Bitot’s spots. In severe cases, a slit-lamp examination can help detect early signs of ocular complications.

What Are the Treatment Options for Vitamin A Deficiency?

Vitamin A deficiency is treated by restoring adequate levels through diet, supplements, and addressing any underlying causes. The treatment approach depends on the severity of the deficiency and the person’s overall health.

Dietary Changes

Mild deficiencies can often be corrected by eating more vitamin A-rich foods, including:

• Animal sources – Liver, dairy products (milk, cheese, yoghurt), eggs, and oily fish (salmon, mackerel). These contain preformed vitamin A (retinol), which the body absorbs easily.
• Plant sources – Leafy greens (spinach, kale), orange and yellow vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin), and fruits (mangoes, papayas, apricots). These contain provitamin A carotenoids, which the body converts into vitamin A.
• Healthy fats – Nuts, seeds, and oils like olive or sunflower oil can help improve vitamin A absorption, as it is fat-soluble.

Vitamin A Supplements

In cases where diet alone is not enough, vitamin A supplements may be prescribed. These are available in different forms, such as:

• Oral supplements – Capsules or liquid drops, usually recommended for mild to moderate deficiency.
• High-dose supplements – Given in cases of severe deficiency, particularly for children and pregnant women in high-risk areas. These are typically administered under medical supervision to avoid toxicity.
• Injections – Used in rare cases where absorption through the digestive system is impaired due to underlying health conditions.

Managing Underlying Conditions

If the deficiency is caused by an absorption issue rather than poor diet, treating the underlying condition is essential. Conditions such as liver disease, cystic fibrosis, Crohn’s disease, and coeliac disease can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamin A. Managing these conditions with appropriate medication, dietary adjustments, and nutritional support can help improve vitamin A levels.

When to Consult a Doctor?

A doctor should be consulted if symptoms suggest a possible vitamin A deficiency, particularly those affecting vision, immunity, or skin health.

• Vision problems – Difficulty seeing in dim light (night blindness), dry or irritated eyes, or frequent eye infections.
• Weakened immunity – Increased susceptibility to infections, such as respiratory or gastrointestinal illnesses.
• Skin and hair changes – Dry, rough skin, slow wound healing, or hair thinning.
• Growth concerns – In children, slow growth or developmental delays.

Seeking medical advice early can help diagnose and manage the deficiency before complications develop.

Consult Today

Changes in vision, frequent infections, or persistent skin issues can sometimes be overlooked, but they may signal an underlying vitamin A deficiency. Addressing these signs early can help prevent complications and support overall well-being. For those experiencing symptoms or at risk of deficiency, medical guidance is essential. Doctors at Max Hospital can assess the symptoms and recommend the best course of action. Schedule a consultation today to take the next step toward better health.

FAQs on Vitamin A Deficiency

Can too much vitamin A be harmful?

Yes, excessive vitamin A intake, especially from supplements, can be harmful. High levels can lead to toxicity, causing symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, liver damage, and, in severe cases, bone fractures or neurological issues. Pregnant women should be particularly cautious, as excess vitamin A can affect foetal development.

Does cooking affect the vitamin A content in food?

Vitamin A from animal sources is relatively stable during cooking. However, provitamin A carotenoids in vegetables, such as beta-carotene, can degrade with excessive heat. Cooking methods like steaming or roasting help retain more nutrients compared to boiling for long periods.

Are certain age groups more vulnerable to vitamin A deficiency?

Yes, infants, young children, and pregnant or breastfeeding women are more vulnerable. Growing children have higher nutritional needs, and deficiency in early life can affect vision and immunity. Pregnant and breastfeeding women require more vitamin A for foetal and infant development.

How does vitamin A deficiency affect pregnancy?

A lack of vitamin A during pregnancy can lead to complications such as night blindness, a weakened immune system, and an increased risk of maternal and infant mortality. It also plays a role in foetal growth and organ development, making adequate intake essential.

Can vitamin A deficiency cause long-term damage?

Yes, prolonged deficiency can result in permanent vision impairment, including complete blindness, particularly in children. It can also weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. Long-term effects depend on the severity and duration of deficiency.

Is vitamin A deficiency linked to other nutrient deficiencies?

Yes, vitamin A deficiency is often associated with deficiencies in fat, zinc, and protein, as these nutrients help with absorption and metabolism. A lack of these nutrients may contribute to poor vitamin A levels, even when dietary intake is sufficient.

Does Vitamin A Deficiency Affect Mental Health or Cognitive Function?

Vitamin A plays a role in brain function, and deficiency may affect mental health and cognition. Research suggests that vitamin A is involved in neural development, memory, and learning. A deficiency can lead to cognitive impairment, difficulty concentrating, and, in some cases, mood changes such as irritability or depression. It may also contribute to an increased risk of neurodegenerative conditions. However, more studies are needed to fully understand the long-term impact of vitamin A deficiency on mental health.

Are There Vegetarian or Vegan-Friendly Sources of Vitamin A?

Yes, plant-based sources provide provitamin A carotenoids, which the body converts into active vitamin A. Good vegetarian and vegan sources include carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale, pumpkin, mangoes, and red bell peppers. Fortified foods, such as plant-based milk and cereals, can also help increase intake. Since conversion rates vary between individuals, consuming a variety of these foods with healthy fats (like nuts and oils) can improve absorption.