Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency commonly presents with fatigue, weakness, bone pain, and muscle aches, though many patients may be asymptomatic until severe deficiency develops. 1
Common Symptoms in Adults
- Fatigue and generalized weakness are among the most frequently reported symptoms 1
- Symmetric low back pain that is often diffuse and difficult to localize 2
- Proximal muscle weakness affecting the hips and shoulders, which can impair mobility 2
- Muscle aches and general body pains that may be mistaken for fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue 3, 2
- Throbbing bone pain that is elicited with direct pressure over the sternum or tibia 2
Severe Deficiency Manifestations
- Osteomalacia in adults represents the severe end of the spectrum, causing significant bone pain and increased fracture risk 3, 2
- Rickets in children manifests as visible skeletal deformities and growth impairment 1, 3
- Secondary hyperparathyroidism can develop, leading to accelerated bone loss 1
Special Population Considerations
- Bariatric surgery patients may present with unexplained anemia, persistent fatigue, and increased fracture risk due to malabsorption 1
- Inflammatory bowel disease patients are at higher risk for bone pain, fractures, and secondary hyperparathyroidism 1
- Postmenopausal women face compounded risk as estrogen decline increases bone turnover, making vitamin D deficiency more consequential 3
Important Clinical Caveats
- Mild deficiency may be completely asymptomatic, making it easy to miss without laboratory testing 3
- Individual variation exists in how patients metabolize and respond to vitamin D based on genetics, body composition, and environmental factors 1
- Depression and impaired cognitive function have been associated with vitamin D deficiency, though these are less specific symptoms 3
- Increased age and elevated body fat mass contribute to higher risk of both deficiency and symptomatic presentation 3