Avitaminosis is a complete absence in the body of one or several vitamins at once. Pathology occurs with insufficient intake of useful compounds with food, disorders of their absorption, cleavage and transportation. It can develop due to congenital genetic diseases.
The signs of avitaminosis are affected by how much and what vitamins the body is not getting enough. To diagnose pathology, an analysis is carried out to detect vitamin indicators in the blood, as well as clinical and biochemical tests. Treatment is aimed at correcting the amount of vitamin substances in the body.
Symptoms of avitaminosis
1. Vitamin A
- pathognomonic sign – “night blindness”, which is expressed in a sharp decrease in vision in the dark and twilight, as well as deterioration of vision in the light;
- dryness, redness and itching of the skin;
- severe hair loss, hair breakage;
- poor condition of the nails;
- persistent fatigue;
- impaired sense of smell;
- decreased immunity.
2. Vitamin D
- disorders of phosphorus-calcium metabolism, negatively affecting the condition of bones, tooth enamel, hair and nails;
- in adults – weakness in muscles and joints, movement coordination disorders, as well as gradually developing osteoporosis;
- in children – rickets, which is manifested in growth retardation, nervous system manifestations, formation of rickety bangs.
3. Vitamin E, there is no such thing as total avitaminosis, only hypovitaminosis, its signs are:
- muscle weakness;
- sexual dysfunction;
- spontaneous abortions in women;
- hemolytic anemia.
4. Vitamin K (avitaminosis in adults only occurs with comorbidities or improper choice of medications)
- various hemorrhages;
- hemorrhages in the subcutaneous tissue and joint cavities.
5. Vitamin C
- scurvy disease (with a pronounced avitaminosis);
- weakness, spot hemorrhages on the skin, swelling and redness of the gums, long healing of wounds, premature aging, deterioration of immunity (in moderately pronounced vitamin C deficiency).
6. Groups B
- marked weakness;
- poor tolerance to physical exertion;
- poor mental performance;
- dizziness;
- increased heart rate;
- headaches;
- shortness of breath.
The exact signs depend on exactly which B vitamin is lacking.
Causes of avitaminosis
Avitaminosis, according to the cause of occurrence, is divided into external – environmental, food and other, as well as internal, the development of which is due to the violation of internal organs. Among the nutritional causes of vitamin deficiency are distinguished:
- unbalanced diet;
- starvation;
- early introduction of complementary foods;
- excessive heat treatment;
- strict diets;
- eating low-quality foods;
- medications that block the process of vitamin absorption;
- improper storage of food.
There are environmental conditions that contribute to the appearance of vitamin deficiency. The following external preconditions are distinguished:
- extreme climatic conditions of life;
- prolonged stress;
- abuse of psychoactive substances and alcohol;
- smoking;
- living in conditions with unfavorable ecology;
- high physical activity.
Treatment of avitaminosis
If the deficiency of vitamins is due to their insufficient intake with food, then adjust the diet and, as a rule, at the same time prescribe vitamin preparations. With pronounced avitaminosis, drugs are administered parenterally.
When vitamin deficiency is caused by disorders in the work of the body, then perform:
- treatment of gastrointestinal diseases;
- correction of malabsorption;
- normalization of electrolyte balance.
In any case, the treatment regimen and dosage of vitamin preparations is prescribed by a doctor. It is important for the patient to strictly follow the recommendations of the specialist.
Complications of avitaminosis
Without timely treatment, avitaminosis can lead to severe consequences.
With a lack of vitamin K and ascorbic acid, a person can have hemorrhages and develop massive bleeding. B1 deficiency leads to neuropathies, vascular and heart diseases.
Since medicine is sufficiently developed, fatal cases are rare.
Prognosis and preventive measures
Timely treatment of hypovitaminosis allows you to count on the full recovery of the patient. A favorable prognosis is formed with a moderate vitamin deficiency and normalization of the diet of a child or adult. Severe forms of avitaminosis do not always allow you to restore the normal work of individual systems of the body. Vitamin deficiency in the neglected form can lead to death.
Prevention of pathology is based on a balanced diet. Signs of avitaminosis will not manifest themselves in children and adults with the systematic use of a sufficient amount of vegetables, fruits, greens. In the fall and winter, fresh juices, citrus fruits and sauerkraut should be included in the diet.
Conclusion
Avitaminosis is a serious condition that can arise from insufficient vitamin intake, poor absorption, or underlying health issues. Its symptoms vary depending on the missing vitamins and can lead to severe complications if left untreated. Early detection and proper treatment, including dietary adjustments and vitamin supplementation, are crucial for recovery. Prevention is key, with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and addressing any vitamin deficiencies promptly, individuals can avoid the risks of avitaminosis and ensure overall well-being.
