E55: Vitamin D deficiency

Vitamin D deficiency is a common condition that occurs when your body doesn't have enough vitamin D, an essential nutrient that aids in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which is important for bone health. It is often caused by inadequate exposure to sunlight, poor diet, and certain medical conditions such as celiac disease, kidney disease and some liver diseases that affect vitamin D absorption. This deficiency can lead to a range of health problems such as weakened bones, known as rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Common symptoms include bone pain, muscle weakness, mood changes, and fatigue. When left unchecked, a long-term deficiency can lead to serious complications like osteoporosis and increased risk of fractures. This condition often progresses silently over a long period and it may take months to a year to refill the body's vitamin D reserves after it becomes deficient.