Vitamin D toxicity, also known as hypervitaminosis D, is an uncommon but life-threatening illness caused by an overabundance of vitamin D in the body. Vitamin D, widely known as the “sunshine” vitamin, is essential for maintaining our general health. It is responsible not only for the normal functioning of our immune system but also for the growth of our muscle cells.
The best and most natural approach to enhance Vitamin D levels in your body is to expose yourself to sunshine. However, eating high-quality meals and/or taking supplements can also help you get enough vitamin D in your body.
The major effect of vitamin D poisoning is an increase in calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia), which can produce nausea and vomiting, lethargy, and frequent urination. Toxic levels of vitamin D can cause bone pain and renal difficulties, such as the creation of calcium stones.
Bone issues
When there is a surplus of calcium in the circulation owing to excessive levels of vitamin D in the body, the hormones may find it difficult to connect the mineral to the bones. This can result in aching or painful bones, a higher likelihood of bone fractures and accidents, and certain changes in the posture.
Kidney issues
Hypercalcemia caused by Vitamin D poisoning can potentially cause renal problems. Elevated blood calcium levels can also impair the organ’s capacity to concentrate urine, resulting in excessive urination, a disease known as polyuria.
Treatment
Treatment includes discontinuing vitamin D intake and limiting dietary calcium. In addition, your doctor may recommend intravenous fluids and drugs such as corticosteroids or bisphosphonates.
Toxic effects have been observed while taking 60,000 international units (IU) of vitamin D per day for several months. This amount is several times greater than the RDA for most individuals in the United States, which is 600 IU of vitamin D per day.
Doses greater than the RDA are occasionally used to address medical conditions such as vitamin D insufficiency, but only under the supervision of a doctor for a certain period of time. When using large amounts of vitamin D, blood levels should be checked.
Before using vitamin and mineral supplements, as usual, consult your doctor.
