Eye Problems
Vitamin A deficiency can lead to several eye-related complications and vision issues, including:
- Keratomalacia: A condition that causes thinning and ulceration of the cornea.
- Night Blindness: Difficulty seeing in low-light conditions due to impaired vision in dark environments.
- Xerophthalmia: Dryness of the conjunctiva and cornea, which can lead to severe eye damage if left untreated.
- Significant vision loss caused by damage to the retina.
- Bitot's Spots: Foamy, irregular or oval-shaped white patches that appear on the whites of the eyes.
Delayed Growth
Vitamin A is essential for proper body development, particularly in children. A deficiency can impair growth in children who do not receive sufficient amounts. This issue can often be addressed through vitamin A supplementation and a diet rich in vitamin A sources.
Infertility and Pregnancy Complications
Both men and women can experience fertility issues as a result of vitamin A deficiency. Research indicates that infertile men often exhibit high levels of oxidative stress, increasing their need for antioxidants like vitamin A. In women, insufficient levels of this vitamin have been linked to recurrent miscarriages and may also contribute to congenital abnormalities in the fetus.
Other Health Risks
Additional complications that may arise due to a lack of vitamin A include:
- Increased susceptibility to infections and a weakened immune system.
- Squamous Metaplasia: A condition where the cells lining the airways and bladder change into a flat, scale-like form.
- Hyperkeratosis: The appearance of white bumps in hair follicles caused by excessive keratin buildup.
