What is Vitamin A Deficiency?
Disease description:
Recently, I have been feeling that my skin is a bit rough, and my eyes have also been somewhat uncomfortable. After going to the hospital for a checkup, the doctor suspected it might be vitamin A deficiency. I would like to know what vitamin A deficiency is?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Vitamin A deficiency is a nutritional disorder primarily caused by insufficient levels of vitamin A in the body. The main symptoms of this condition include dry, scaly skin, follicular hyperkeratosis, and ocular manifestations such as night blindness and xerophthalmia. In severe cases, it may lead to corneal ulcers and even blindness. Vitamin A deficiency can also impair growth and development, particularly affecting the skeletal system, and may contribute to iron-deficiency anemia.
The causes of vitamin A deficiency are varied and include primary factors (such as inadequate vitamin A stores in newborns), impaired digestion and absorption (such as gastrointestinal dysfunction), disturbances in storage and utilization (such as increased consumption due to chronic wasting diseases), as well as deficiencies in protein and zinc. Key measures for prevention and treatment involve increasing dietary intake of vitamin A-rich foods, such as liver and carrots, and supplementing with vitamin A preparations when necessary.
Patients with concerns are advised to seek timely medical consultation.
