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What symptoms may occur due to vitamin A and D deficiency?

Nov 17, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Common symptoms of vitamin A and D deficiency generally include dry and light-sensitive eyes, rough and flaky skin, abnormal bone development, weakened immunity, and night blindness. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for maintaining ocular surface health; its deficiency can lead to reduced tear secretion, dryness of the ocular mucosa, eye dryness, a foreign body sensation, and increased sensitivity to light.

Common symptoms of vitamin AD deficiency generally include dry and light-sensitive eyes, rough and flaky skin, abnormal bone development, weakened immunity, and night blindness. Specific details are as follows:

1. Dry and light-sensitive eyes: Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for maintaining ocular surface health. Deficiency leads to reduced tear secretion and dryness of the ocular mucous membranes, causing eye dryness and a foreign body sensation. Increased sensitivity to light may also occur, leading to photophobia. Prolonged deficiency can result in corneal softening and impaired vision.

2. Rough and flaky skin: Vitamin A plays a role in the repair and renewal of skin and mucous membranes. When deficient, keratinocyte metabolism becomes abnormal, resulting in rough, dry, and scaly skin—particularly noticeable on limbs and the trunk. Some individuals may also develop follicular hyperkeratosis, presenting as small, bumpy protrusions on the skin surface.

3. Abnormal bone development: Vitamin D promotes calcium and phosphorus absorption. Its deficiency impairs bone mineralization. In children, this may lead to delayed bone development and bone softening, manifesting as bowed legs or delayed tooth eruption. In adults, it may cause bone pain, muscle weakness, and increased risk of osteoporosis.

4. Weakened immunity: Vitamins A and D regulate immune system function. Deficiency reduces the body's resistance, making individuals more susceptible to recurrent respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. Recovery time may be prolonged, and the body becomes less able to defend against external pathogens.

5. Night blindness: Vitamin A is a key component of the light-sensitive substances in the retina. Deficiency reduces the retina’s ability to perceive dim light, resulting in blurred vision at night or in low-light conditions—known as night blindness. In severe cases, individuals may be nearly unable to see objects in dark environments.

If any of the above symptoms appear and vitamin AD deficiency is suspected, dietary adjustments should be made promptly to increase intake of foods rich in vitamins A and D.

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