Vitamin D Deficiency
نقص فيتامين د
A shortage of vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and immune function. Despite abundant sunshine, deficiency is common in Jordan and the wider region due to limited sun exposure from indoor lifestyles and covering clothing. It's usually corrected with supplements and, where possible, safe sun exposure.
This information is for general awareness only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Quick answer
Vitamin D deficiency means the body does not have enough vitamin D, which helps absorb calcium and keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. The body makes it mainly from sunlight on the skin, and gets a smaller amount from food.
Many people have no symptoms. When symptoms occur they can include tiredness, bone or muscle pain and weakness; in children, severe deficiency can cause rickets, and in adults, bone softening (osteomalacia).
It is diagnosed with a blood test and treated with vitamin D supplements and sensible sun exposure and diet, at a dose and duration set by a doctor. Avoid high-dose self-treatment — too much vitamin D can be harmful.
Symptoms
Often no symptoms
Many people learn of low vitamin D from a blood test.
Tiredness
Bone pain
Aching, sometimes in the lower back, hips or legs.
Muscle weakness or aches
May cause difficulty climbing stairs or rising from a chair.
Frequent bone fractures
Bones may be weaker than expected.
Rickets in children
Bowed legs, delayed growth and soft bones.
Osteomalacia in adults
Bone softening with pain and tenderness.
Causes and risk factors
Causes
- Limited sun exposure — Covering the skin, spending most time indoors, or living at higher latitudes with less winter sun.
- Low dietary intake — Few foods naturally contain vitamin D; oily fish, egg yolks and fortified foods are sources.
- Darker skin — Melanin reduces the skin's ability to make vitamin D from sunlight.
- Reduced absorption or activation — Conditions such as coeliac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and kidney or liver disease.
- Some medicines — A few medicines can lower vitamin D levels.
Risk factors
- Little time outdoors, or skin covered by clothing
- Darker skin tone
- Older age
- Overweight or obesity
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Infants exclusively breastfed without supplementation
- Digestive, kidney or liver disease
How is it diagnosed?
Vitamin D status is measured with a blood test, usually alongside other tests when bone problems are suspected.
25-hydroxyvitamin D blood test
The standard measure of vitamin D status.
Calcium, phosphate and parathyroid hormone
May be checked to assess bone and mineral health.
Bone imaging or bone density scan
Considered when there is bone pain, fractures or suspected bone thinning.
Related tests
Treatment
Treatment is with vitamin D supplements at a dose and duration chosen by your doctor according to how low your level is, your age and other conditions.
Vitamin D supplements
Taken as prescribed or advised. Do not exceed the recommended dose; very high intake can cause harmful calcium build-up.
Sensible sun exposure
Short, regular exposure can help, balanced against skin-cancer risk.
Foods containing vitamin D
Oily fish, egg yolks and fortified foods contribute a smaller share.
Follow-up testing
A repeat blood test shows whether levels have recovered.
Treatment for infants, pregnancy, kidney disease and other conditions needs individual medical advice.
When should you see a doctor?
Arrange a medical assessment if
- Bone or muscle pain and weakness that does not go away
- Fractures after minor injuries
- A child with bowed legs, delayed walking or slow growth
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a digestive, kidney or liver condition and are unsure about vitamin D
- Persistent tiredness without another explanation
Seek urgent care if
- In infants: seizures or convulsions, or unusual jitteriness (may be linked to very low calcium)
- Severe bone pain with inability to bear weight after a fall
Prevention
Get regular, sensible sun exposure
Short periods on face and arms during safer hours, without burning.
Eat foods containing vitamin D
Oily fish, egg yolks and fortified products.
Use supplements when advised
For example in infants who are breastfed, in people who are covered or housebound, or as your doctor recommends.
Test if you are at higher risk
Frequently asked questions
What is vitamin D deficiency?
It is when your body does not have enough vitamin D, which is needed to absorb calcium and maintain healthy bones and muscles.
What are the symptoms of low vitamin D?
Many people have none. Others notice tiredness, bone pain and muscle weakness.
Why is vitamin D deficiency common in sunny countries?
Covering the skin, spending most of the day indoors, avoiding the sun at peak hours and darker skin can all reduce how much vitamin D the body makes even where sun is plentiful.
How is vitamin D deficiency diagnosed?
With a blood test that measures 25-hydroxyvitamin D.
Can I take too much vitamin D?
Yes. Excessive doses can raise blood calcium and harm the kidneys and other organs. Use supplements at the dose advised by a doctor or pharmacist.
How long does it take to correct a deficiency?
It depends on how low the level is and the dose used. Your doctor will usually recheck the level after a period of treatment.
Related specialties
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Related articles
- Vitamin D Test: Normal Range and What It Means
- Vitamin D Dosage: How Much Do You Need?
- Best Sources of Vitamin D
- Vitamin D and Calcium: How They Work Together for Bone Health
- Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency
- Vitamin D Deficiency and Bone Pain
- Osteoporosis
- Vitamin D Toxicity: Can You Take Too Much?
- Vitamin D Deficiency in Jordan: How Common It Is, Symptoms, Testing, and Treatment
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Medical sources
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