Disease Caused Due To Deficiency Of Vitamin A
Introduction
Vitamin A is an important nutrient that is essential for maintaining good health. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that is found in many foods, including liver, dairy products, and dark green leafy vegetables. The body also produces vitamin A from beta-carotene, which is found in orange and yellow fruits and vegetables.
Deficiency of vitamin A can lead to a number of health problems, including blindness, skin problems, and weakened immune system. In this article, we will discuss the diseases caused due to the deficiency of vitamin A.
Night Blindness
Night blindness is a condition in which a person has difficulty seeing in low light or darkness. It is often the first sign of vitamin A deficiency. Vitamin A is essential for the production of rhodopsin, a pigment in the eyes that helps us see in low light conditions. Without enough vitamin A, the eyes cannot produce enough rhodopsin, which leads to night blindness.
Xerophthalmia
Xerophthalmia is a condition in which the eyes become dry and the cornea becomes cloudy. It is a serious condition that can lead to blindness if left untreated. Vitamin A is necessary for the health of the eyes, and a deficiency can lead to xerophthalmia.
Immune System Weakness
Vitamin A is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system. It helps to maintain the integrity of the skin and the lining of the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and urinary tracts. A deficiency of vitamin A can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and diseases.
Respiratory Infections
Vitamin A deficiency is associated with an increased risk of respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis. This is because vitamin A is necessary for the health of the respiratory tract, and a deficiency can weaken the immune system and make the body more susceptible to infections.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that is common in children. Vitamin A deficiency is associated with an increased risk of complications from measles, including pneumonia, diarrhea, and blindness.
Skin Problems
Vitamin A is necessary for the health of the skin, and a deficiency can lead to a number of skin problems, including dry skin, acne, and psoriasis.
Conclusion
Vitamin A is an essential nutrient that is necessary for maintaining good health. Deficiency of vitamin A can lead to a number of health problems, including night blindness, xerophthalmia, weakened immune system, respiratory infections, measles, and skin problems. It is important to consume a diet rich in vitamin A, including foods such as liver, dairy products, dark green leafy vegetables, and orange and yellow fruits and vegetables.