Vitamin D toxicity?

Posted by michaelsz @michaelsz, 6 days ago

Hi, I have had peripheral neuropathy, mostly sensory changes and balance issues as I age. Nerve conduction studies show non-diabetic neuropathy. I do not drink ETOH. For sure I have lots of degenerative disease in my spine: cervical and lumber. I had also in error (my error) been taking high doses of Vitamin D for a number of months. Since I stopped taking the high doses (50,000 units weekly), my symptoms have improved. I do not know if this is coincidence. It is not the only intervention: I have been doing balance exercises, and have altered my sleeping position (trying not to sleep on my arms) So, I have some improvement in my symptoms but wonder if the neuropathy is related to Vitamin D toxicity in part.

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John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | 6 days ago

Hi @michaelsz, I also take vitamin D3 as part of my neuropathy supplements but not at the high doses that you have taken. I take 50 mcg daily which I think equates to 2,000 iu. I've not read of neuropathy symptoms from vitamin D toxicity. Here are a few references that might help explain it better.

-- What is vitamin D toxicity? Should I be worried about taking supplements?
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/vitamin-d-toxicity/faq-20058108
-- Vitamin D Toxicity: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557876/

I also have balance issues with my neuropathy and do exercises but also focus on other things to hopefully help to prevent falling. It's good to hear that your symptoms have improved since you stopped taking vitamin D. I usually discuss the supplements I take with my primary care doc at my annual checkup. Have you discussed the symptoms and improvements with your doctor?

michaelsz | @michaelsz | 6 days ago

In reply to @johnbishop "Hi @michaelsz, I also take vitamin D3 as part of my neuropathy supplements but not at..." + (show)

Yes. It was my error that I took such a high dose. I have discussed and have follow up with my MD. Thx for responding.

cheyne | @cheyne | 6 days ago

Hi,
Both too little and too much vitamin D3 can be damaging. Best to have it monitored with Dr assistance.
Cheers

windyshores | @windyshores | 5 days ago

In reply to @michaelsz "Yes. It was my error that I took such a high dose. I have discussed and..." + (show)

@michaelsz wow that is a high dose. What is your blood level? I have been told that anything over 80 is too high. I guess it would be hard to evaluate any other health issues until your D3 level is in the normal range. Have you stopped taking any while you wait for the level to go down?

My kid was deficient and was given a dose of 50,000 units but only took it once at that level.

michaelsz | @michaelsz | 5 days ago

In reply to @windyshores "@michaelsz wow that is a high dose. What is your blood level? I have been told..." + (show)

Thank you. I agree. My levels were high. Normalizing now. I just wanted to let folk know that there can be toxicity if too much is taken. I agree that one should follow the advice of one's physician. My error was to misunderstand the dosing recommendations. I appreciate your response.