Deficiency of Vitamin A and its Effects



Night Blindness
- Deficiency of vitamin A can lead to night blindness, which is the inability to see in low light or darkness.
- This condition occurs because vitamin A is essential for the production of rhodopsin, a pigment in the eyes that helps with night vision.
- Without enough vitamin A, the eyes cannot effectively adjust to low light conditions, leading to night blindness.



Other Effects
- In addition to night blindness, deficiency of vitamin A can also result in dry eyes, increased susceptibility to infections, and poor growth.
- Severe deficiency can lead to xerophthalmia, a condition characterized by dryness of the eyes, which can progress to blindness if left untreated.
- Vitamin A deficiency is especially concerning in pregnant women, as it can lead to an increased risk of maternal mortality, premature delivery, and low birth weight in infants.



Prevention and Treatment
- To prevent vitamin A deficiency, it is important to include sources of vitamin A in the diet, such as liver, eggs, dairy products, and orange and green leafy vegetables.
- In cases of deficiency, vitamin A supplements may be prescribed by a healthcare professional to help correct the deficiency and prevent the associated health problems.