What diseases can selenium deficiency cause?

Mar 18, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Lei

Introduction

1. Anemia: Selenium is an antioxidant and an essential trace mineral in the human body, commonly playing supportive roles in anti-aging and antioxidant processes. 2. Cataracts: Selenium deficiency in the body often leads to lens opacification, resulting in cataracts; symptoms may be alleviated with medications such as vitamin E, as prescribed by a physician. 3. Hypertension.

Selenium deficiency refers to an inadequate level of selenium—an essential trace element—in the human body. Common manifestations include hair loss and nail dystrophy; some patients develop skin symptoms, while a minority may experience neurological symptoms or dental damage. So, what diseases can result from selenium deficiency? The following section addresses this question.

What diseases can selenium deficiency cause?

Selenium deficiency is commonly associated with anemia, cataracts, and hypertension—conditions typically managed with pharmacological treatment.

1. Anemia: Selenium functions as an antioxidant and is a vital trace mineral in the human body, contributing to anti-aging and antioxidant processes. It also plays a critical role in hematopoiesis and red blood cell metabolism. Deficiency may impair these functions and contribute to anemia. Under medical guidance, supplementation with selenium yeast tablets may be recommended.

2. Cataracts: Selenium deficiency can lead to lens opacification, thereby increasing the risk of cataract development. Vitamin E supplementation—under physician supervision—may help alleviate symptoms. In advanced cases, surgical intervention such as intracapsular cataract extraction may be required alongside medical management.

3. Hypertension: Selenium deficiency impairs the body’s ability to neutralize free radicals, resulting in increased blood viscosity. Elevated blood viscosity contributes directly to elevated systemic blood pressure, potentially leading to hypertension. If uncontrolled, hypertension may precipitate further cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications. Management typically involves antihypertensive medications such as nifedipine tablets, prescribed and monitored by a healthcare provider.

The above outlines the major diseases associated with selenium deficiency. We hope this information is helpful to you.

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What happens if you have selenium deficiency?

Selenium deficiency may lead to weakened immunity, making individuals more susceptible to infections caused by pathogens such as bacteria and viruses, thereby increasing the risk of disease. It may also contribute—albeit to some extent—to premature aging and excessive moisture loss from the skin, manifesting as dullness, flaking, and dryness. Additionally, selenium helps protect pancreatic islet cells from oxidative damage; thus, selenium deficiency—rather than zinc deficiency—may increase the risk of developing diabetes.

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What Are the Consequences of Selenium Deficiency in the Human Body?

Selenium is one of the body’s essential trace elements. Selenium deficiency—regardless of its cause—can lead to an increased incidence of liver disease and tumors, a higher risk of autoimmune disorders, Keshan disease, bone disorders, and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Selenium is also an important trace element for humans, and pine nuts contain relatively high levels of it. To prevent selenium deficiency, consuming pine nuts and sunflower seeds regularly is recommended.