Vitamin A Deficiency and Its Impact on Vision
know how vitamin A deficiency is responsible for vision, causes, symptoms, who is at risk, how to manage and prevent vitamin A deficiency and more.
Written by Dr. J T Hema Pratima
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 7th Aug, 2025
Introduction
Our eyes are one of our most precious gifts, allowing us to experience the beauty of the world. However, poor nutrition, especially a lack of essential vitamins, can harm our vision. One such crucial nutrient is vitamin A, which plays a vital role in maintaining healthy eyesight.
A deficiency in this vitamin can lead to serious eye problems, including night blindness and even permanent vision loss.
In this article, we’ll explore what Vitamin A deficiency is, how it affects vision, its symptoms, causes, and ways to prevent or manage it.
What is Vitamin A?
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for:
Good vision (especially in low light)
Healthy immune function
skin health
Cell growth and repair
There are two main types of Vitamin A:
1. Preformed Vitamin A (Retinol) – Found in animal products like liver, eggs, and dairy.
2. Provitamin A (Beta-carotene) – Found in colourful fruits and vegetables like carrots, spinach, and sweet potatoes.
Our body converts beta-carotene into active Vitamin A as needed.
Consult an Ophthalmologist for Personalised Advice
How Does Vitamin A Deficiency Affect Vision?
Vitamin A is crucial for the production of rhodopsin, a pigment in the retina that helps us see in dim light. Without enough Vitamin A:
Night blindness (Nyctalopia) – Difficulty seeing in low light.
Dry eyes (Xerophthalmia) – Eyes become dry, leading to irritation and ulcers.
Corneal damage – Severe deficiency can cause scarring and blindness.
In children, Vitamin A deficiency is a leading cause of preventable blindness.
Symptoms of Vitamin A Deficiency
Early signs include:
Difficulty seeing at night
Dry, itchy eyes
Frequent eye infections
Slow wound healing
Rough, dry skin
Severe deficiency may lead to
White spots on the eyes (Bitot’s spots)
Corneal ulcers
Complete vision loss
Causes of Vitamin A Deficiency
Several factors can lead to low Vitamin A levels:
1. Poor Diet – Not eating enough Vitamin A-rich foods.
2. Malabsorption Issues – Conditions like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease can prevent proper absorption.
3. Liver Disorders – The liver stores Vitamin A; liver disease can deplete reserves.
4. Alcoholism – Excessive alcohol affects Vitamin A storage.
5. Infections & Chronic Illnesses – Measles and diarrhoea increase Vitamin A loss.
Who is at Risk?
The population who are at risk includes:
Children & Pregnant Women – Higher need for growth and development.
People with Digestive Disorders – Poor absorption of nutrients.
Those in Low-Income Regions – Limited access to nutritious food.
How to Prevent & Manage Vitamin A Deficiency
1. Eat Vitamin A-Rich Foods
Animal Sources: Liver, eggs, milk, cheese, fish.
Plant Sources: Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, mangoes, papayas.
2. Consider Supplements (If Needed)
Doctors may prescribe Vitamin A supplements for severe deficiency.
Do not self-medicate – Excess Vitamin A can be harmful.
3. Improve Absorption
Eat Vitamin A foods with healthy fats (like olive oil or nuts) for better absorption.
4. Regular Eye Check-ups
Early detection can prevent complications.
5. Protect Against Infections
Vaccinations (like measles) and good hygiene help reduce Vitamin A loss.
When to See a Doctor?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:
Persistent night blindness
Severe dry eyes
Unexplained vision changes
Early treatment can prevent permanent damage.
Conclusion
Vitamin A is essential for healthy vision, and its deficiency can lead to serious eye problems. By eating a balanced diet rich in Vitamin A, getting regular check-ups, and seeking medical advice when needed, you can protect your eyesight and overall health.
Consult an Ophthalmologist for Personalised Advice
Consult an Ophthalmologist for Personalised Advice
Dr. Smriti Nagpal
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