Vitamin K Deficiency Symptoms

The different types of vitamin include vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K. As we know, every vitamin carries out specific function in the body and hence, is essential for overall growth and development. Similarly, the most important function of vitamin K is clotting of blood. When a person bleeds, vitamin K plays an important role in clotting blood which reduces and stops blood flow and blood loss. Secondly, vitamin K is also essential for bone development and regulates the calcium absorption in the body. Pregnant women are also advised to include foods high in vitamin K in their diet as it is also necessary for the development of the fetus. Due to its several vitamin K benefits, it is essential to include this vitamin in the diet regularly. Failing to do so, can lead to deficiency.

Vitamin K Deficiency Causes

As mentioned above, not having a proper diet is one of the major causes of vitamin K and all vitamin deficiencies. All the essential vitamins required by the body are found in foods obtained from plant and/or animal sources. Therefore, if a person has an improper diet, that does not contain healthy or vitamin K containing foods, he/she may suffer from deficiency. On the other hand, it is also found that prolong use of antibiotics can also lead to vitamin K deficiency. Similarly, certain medications (usually those taken orally) tend to lower the amounts of vitamin K in the body which can lead to deficiency. It should be noted that although deficiency of vitamin K is rarely found, it should not be ignored.

Symptoms of Vitamin K Deficiency

As vitamin K helps in clotting of blood, absence of this vitamin can lead to bleeding. Secondly, disorders of the bones and bone development are also found in children suffering from deficiency of this vitamin. It should be noted that anemia is one of the most prominent vitamin K deficiency symptoms in women. As vitamin K affects the function of blood cells, there are chances of developing anemia in case of this vitamin deficiency. However, peculiarly, it is found that overdose of vitamin K in newborn children or babies can also lead to anemia. Therefore, it should be noted that vitamin K and anemia are related to each other. The following are the vitamin K deficiency signs and symptoms in adults and children.

• Difficulty in blood clotting
• Bleeding in gums, nose
• Excessive bleeding during menstruation
• Internal bleeding in gastrointestinal tract
• Easy bruising
• High susceptibility to bone fractures
• Osteoporosis
• Osteopenia
• Blood in urine
• Hemorrhages

If one observes these symptoms, he should consult the doctor immediately to diagnose the condition. The treatment methods include having a diet inclusive of foods high in vitamin K regularly. Most of the green leafy vegetables, sprouts, eggs, etc. are rich sources of vitamin K and hence, should be included in the diet everyday. Secondly, there are also supplements available in the market that can help correct the vitamin deficiency. However, it should be noted that supplements are only used in case of severe deficiency and are to be taken under doctor's supervision. Vitamin K injections are also available that are taken in case of severe vitamin deficiency or for the prevention of this deficiency.

Lastly, one should remember that having a balanced and nutritious diet helps in gaining all the essential vitamins and keeps deficiency diseases at bay. Therefore, one should plan one's diet carefully and follow it regularly. Take care!