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Hypervitaminosis D
Definition
Hypervitaminosis D is a condition that occurs after taking very high doses of vitamin D.
Alternative Names
Vitamin D toxicity
Causes
An excess of vitamin D causes abnormally high levels of calcium in the blood. This can severely damage the bones, soft tissues, and kidneys over time. It is almost always caused by forms of vitamin D that need a doctor's prescription.
Symptoms
- Constipation
- Decreased appetite (anorexia)
- Dehydration
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Muscle weakness
- Vomiting
Exams and Tests
- Excess calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia)
- Excess calcium in the urine (hypercalciuria)
- Excessive thirst (polydipsia)
- High blood pressure
- Passing large amounts of urine (polyuria)
Tests to confirm the diagnosis:
- 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D levels
- 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels
- Serum calcium
- Serum phosphorus
- X-ray of the bone
Treatment
Stop taking vitamin D. Talk to your health care provider. In severe cases, other treatment may be needed.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Recovery is expected.
Possible Complications
- Dehydration
- Hypercalcemia
- Kidney damage
- Kidney stones
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if:
- You or your child shows symptoms of hypervitaminosis D and has been taking more vitamin D than the recommended daily allowance
- You or your child shows symptoms and has been taking a prescription form of vitamin D
Prevention
To prevent this condition, pay careful attention to the correct vitamin D dose.
Review Date:
12/11/2011
Reviewed By: Nancy J. Rennert, MD, Chief of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Norwalk Hospital, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
Reviewed By: Nancy J. Rennert, MD, Chief of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Norwalk Hospital, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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