Vitamin deficiency treatment
Vitamin deficiency can lead to fatigue, weakened immunity, and other health issues. Get expert medical advice from our Australian-registered online doctors, available 24/7. Consult via telehealth from the comfort of your home, anywhere in Australia, and receive professional guidance within just 15 minutes.
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When to consult a GP for vitamin deficiency?
Seeking medical advice for vitamin deficiency is essential to identify the cause, assess severity, and receive appropriate treatment. You should consult a doctor if you experience:
- Persistent fatigue: If you feel constantly tired, weak, or lack energy despite proper rest.
- Frequent infections: If you fall sick often or take longer to recover from illnesses.
- Skin and hair issues: If you notice dry skin, brittle nails, hair thinning, or unusual hair loss.
- Neurological symptoms: If you experience tingling, numbness, memory problems, or difficulty concentrating.
- Muscle weakness & cramps: If you have frequent muscle pain, cramps, or joint discomfort.
- Vision problems: If you notice changes in night vision or overall eye health.
- Children & pregnancy: If your child has slow growth or developmental concerns, or if you’re pregnant and need proper nutrient levels for a healthy pregnancy.
Please note: While telehealth can help in managing mild vitamin deficiency, serious complications require in-person medical care. In emergencies, always call 000 or visit the nearest hospital.
Get an online doctor’s consultation for medical advice on vitamin deficiency instantly.
Vitamin deficiency treatment options
Telehealth consultation
From $39
Up to 8 mins consult
Covid antivirals
From $59
Up to 8 mins consultMedical certificate online
From $14.90
For a single day certificateOnline referrals
From $39
Up to 8 mins consult
Online scripts
From $19.90
For a single scriptBulk billed mental health plan
100% bulk billed
20 mins consultHow telehealth works
Access AHPRA-accredited online doctors or health practitioners 24 hours a day and 7 days a week through reliable telehealth services. Speak to a registered practitioner within 15 minutes across Australia. Here are some key benefits of telehealth for treating vitamin deficiency:
- Telehealth consults: Seek medical advice from a qualified practitioner through a telehealth appointment
- After hours doctor: Speak to a 24-hour doctor from anywhere in Australia
- Online scripts: Access instant scripts approved by licensed practitioners 24/7 and get them either at your nearest pharmacy or get it delivered through online pharmacy delivery.
- Sick certificates online: Request online doctors certificates for work, school or carers certificate within minutes.
- Online referrals: Get specialist referrals, blood test referrals, pathology and radiology referrals
- Mental health support: Access bulk-billed mental health care plans from anywhere in Australia.
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About vitamin deficiency
Vitamins are essential nutrients that play a vital role in maintaining overall health, supporting the immune system, promoting proper cell function, and ensuring the body’s organs work efficiently. Different vitamins contribute to various bodily functions, including energy production, brain function, bone strength, and skin health. Since the body cannot produce most vitamins in sufficient amounts, they must be obtained through a balanced diet. A deficiency in essential vitamins can lead to various health issues, depending on which vitamin is lacking. Maintaining the right balance of vitamins is crucial deficiencies can result in serious health problems, while excessive intake of certain vitamins – particularly of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) can be harmful.
Common symptoms of vitamin deficiency:
- Fatigue and weakness: Persistent tiredness, low energy, or muscle weakness.
- Frequent infections: A weakened immune system leading to recurrent colds or illnesses.
- Skin and hair issues: Dry, flaky skin, brittle nails, hair thinning, or excessive hair loss.
- Vision problems: Night blindness, dry eyes, or overall vision deterioration.
- Muscle cramps and joint pain: Unexplained muscle aches, cramps, or bone pain.
- Tingling or numbness: A sensation of pins and needles in hands and feet, indicating nerve-related issues.
- Memory problems and poor concentration: Difficulty focusing, brain fog, or forgetfulness.
- Slow wound healing: Cuts and bruises taking longer than usual to heal.
- Unexplained mood changes: Deficiencies in B vitamins, vitamin D, and iron have been linked to mood disturbances
Vitamin deficiency causes
Vitamin deficiencies occur when the body does not receive or absorb enough essential vitamins, leading to health problems over time. The causes of vitamin deficiency vary and can be influenced by diet, medical conditions, lifestyle choices, and other factors.
1. Poor diet & nutritional gaps
- A diet lacking in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can lead to deficiencies in essential vitamins like A, C, D, E, K, and B-complex vitamins.
- Processed foods often lack the necessary vitamins needed for optimal health.
- Strict vegetarian or vegan diets can lead to vitamin B12 deficiency if not supplemented properly. Fortified foods (eg. nutritional yeast, plant-based milk) can help prevent deficiency.
2. Malabsorption issues
- Certain medical conditions prevent the body from properly absorbing vitamins from food, including:
- Celiac disease: Reduces the absorption of vitamins due to intestinal damage.
- Crohn’s disease & ulcerative colitis: Affect digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Liver & kidney diseases: Impact vitamin storage and metabolism.
- Pancreatic disorders: Reduce the body’s ability to absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).
3. Lack of sunlight (Vitamin D deficiency)
- Vitamin D is primarily produced when the skin is exposed to sunlight.
- Limited sun exposure due to indoor lifestyles, sunscreen use, or living in areas with low sunlight can lead to deficiency.
4. Certain medications
- Long-term use of some medications can interfere with vitamin absorption, such as:
- Antacids & proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce vitamin B12 absorption.
- Diuretics & laxatives: Can lead to vitamin and mineral loss.
- Steroids & some antibiotics: May deplete essential vitamins over time.
5. Alcohol consumption
- Excessive alcohol intake affects the liver’s ability to process and store vitamins like B1 (thiamine), B6, folate, and vitamin A.
- Chronic alcohol use can lead to severe deficiencies and nerve damage.
6. Pregnancy
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women need higher amounts of vitamins such as folate, iron, and vitamin D. Calcium and iodine are also crucial during pregnancy.
- Inadequate nutrition during pregnancy can affect both the mother and the baby.
7. Aging & reduced nutrient absorption
- Older adults often have difficulty absorbing vitamins like B12, D, and calcium due to reduced stomach acid production.
- Appetite loss or difficulty chewing certain foods can also contribute to vitamin deficiencies.
8. Digestive surgeries & weight loss procedures
- Surgeries like gastric bypass or bowel resection can limit vitamin absorption by reducing the surface area of the digestive tract.
- Patients may need lifelong supplementation to prevent deficiencies.
9. Chronic stress & lifestyle factors
- Ongoing stress and lack of sleep can deplete certain vitamins, particularly B vitamins and vitamin C, which are essential for energy and immune function.
- Smoking reduces vitamin C levels, while high caffeine intake can interfere with vitamin absorption.
10. Breastfeeding infants & children
- Babies exclusively breastfed for extended periods without vitamin D supplementation may develop a deficiency.
- Picky eaters and children with restricted diets may not get enough vitamins necessary for growth.
Medically reviewed by Dr.Nelson Lau, MBBS FRACGP, GP & Digital Health Specialist.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get an online prescription for vitamin deficiency?
Yes, online doctors can prescribe treatments for vitamin deficiencies if deemed necessary. Through telehealth consultations, an AHPRA-registered online doctor can assess your symptoms, medical history, and any prior blood test results before prescribing medications for vitamin deficiency. Your online prescription will be sent via SMS and can be used at any pharmacy in Australia.
How can I request an online doctor referral for blood tests?
If you suspect a vitamin deficiency, you can book a telehealth consultation with an online doctor. After assessing your symptoms, the doctor may issue a referral for blood tests, which you can take to a nearby pathology clinic. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting a blood test referral:
- Visit Hola Health website or app and request a blood test referral
- Fill in your details and make payment
- Speak to a web doctor through an instant consult
- If warranted, get your blood test referral emailed to you instantly.
Are Hola’s online doctors the same as my regular GP?
Yes, Hola Health’s online doctors are AHPRA-registered medical practitioners who provide telehealth services. They can offer medical advice, prescriptions online, referrals, and sick certificates online.
Can I see an after-hours doctor for vitamin deficiency?
Yes, you can consult an after-hours doctor for vitamin deficiency concerns. Hola Health provides 24/7 access to medical practitioners, making it convenient to get expert advice, prescriptions, or referrals at any time, even outside regular clinic hours, on weekends or public holidays.
What are the common vitamin deficiencies in women?
Common vitamin deficiencies in women include Iron, especially in menstruating women, which can lead to anaemia and fatigue, calcium for bone strength, and Vitamin D for bone and immune health. Folate (Vitamin B9) is essential for reproductive health, particularly during pregnancy, while deficiencies in Vitamin B12 and Omega-3s can also impact energy levels, brain function, and overall well-being.
What are the common vitamin deficiencies in men?
Common vitamin deficiencies in men often include Vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health and testosterone levels, Vitamin B12 for energy and nerve function, and magnesium, which supports muscle and heart health. Omega-3 fatty acids and Zinc deficiencies are also common, affecting brain function and immune support.
What are the common vitamin deficiencies in teens?
Vitamin deficiencies in teens are often due to dietary habits, rapid growth, and lifestyle factors. Common deficiencies include:
- Iron: More common in teenage girls due to menstruation and in boys due to increased muscle mass.
- Vitamin D: Limited sun exposure from indoor activities can lead to low levels.
- Calcium: Essential for bone development, but many teens do not get enough.
- Vitamin B12 & Folate: Important for energy levels and brain function.
How can I get a prescription for vitamin deficiency through telehealth?
You can request for an instant script through Hola Health’s 24/7 telehealth services. After filling in your details and making payment, an online health practitioner will speak to you over a brief telehealth consult evaluating your symptoms and medical history. If a vitamin deficiency is suspected, they may prescribe supplements. Prescriptions will be sent electronically via SMS, allowing you to collect them from a pharmacy or opt for home delivery through same-day medicine delivery.
How to speak to an online doctor using Hola Health?
Using Hola Health for a telehealth consultation is simple:
- Visit the Hola Health website or app and select “See a doctor now.”
- Choose your consultation type
- Enter your details and complete payment securely.
- Connect with a registered online doctor via video call within 15 minutes.
- Receive prescriptions, referrals, or medical certificates via SMS or email if required.
Can I request a specialist referral for vitamin deficiency treatment?
Yes, if your vitamin deficiency requires further investigation, an online doctor can provide a referral to a specialist. Referrals will be sent digitally, allowing you to book an appointment with a specialist without needing an in-person GP visit.
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