What are the signs of vitamin D deficiency?

Vitamin D deficiency may not cause obvious symptoms until it is significant. Possible signs include fatigue, bone or muscle pain, weakness, and in severe cases an increased risk of fractures or bone softening. Risk factors include limited sun exposure, darker skin, older age, living at northern latitudes, covering the skin, and certain medical conditions or medications that affect absorption. The only way to confirm deficiency is a blood test (25-hydroxyvitamin D). If you are at risk or have symptoms, your doctor can order a test and recommend an appropriate dose and form of vitamin D. This is educational only; not medical advice.