Vitamin D is one of the most essential nutrients for our body — often called the “sunshine vitamin” because your skin produces it when exposed to sunlight. It plays a key role in calcium absorption, bone strength, muscle function, and immune system health.
But both too little and too much vitamin D can lead to serious health issues.
In this blog, we’ll cover:
- What is vitamin D and why it matters
- Symptoms and risks of vitamin D deficiency and toxicity
- Vitamin D injection side effects
- The updated Vitamin D test price in India
- How you can book your test with DNA Labs India
☀️ What Is Vitamin D?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps your body absorb calcium and phosphorus, keeping your bones and teeth strong. It also supports your nervous system, immune system, and muscle health.
There are two main types of vitamin D:
- Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) – found in plant sources and supplements
- Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) – produced in the skin in response to sunlight and found in animal-based foods
Your vitamin D level can be measured with a simple blood test.
⚠️ Vitamin D Deficiency: Causes and Symptoms Common Causes:
- Lack of sunlight (indoor lifestyle, sunscreen, pollution)
- Darker skin tone (more melanin = less vitamin D production)
- Poor diet (not enough fish, eggs, dairy, or fortified foods)
- Obesity (vitamin D gets stored in fat)
- Malabsorption (e.g., celiac disease, Crohn’s disease)
- Chronic liver or kidney disease
Symptoms of Deficiency:
- Tiredness and low energy
- Muscle weakness or cramps
- Joint or bone pain
- Low mood or depression
- Frequent colds or infections
- In children: rickets (bone deformities)
If untreated, deficiency can lead to osteoporosis, fractures, and chronic fatigue.
🔴 Vitamin D Toxicity: Too Much Can Be Harmful
While deficiency is common, vitamin D toxicity (also called hypervitaminosis D) is rare — but dangerous. It usually occurs due to excessive supplements or injections.
Causes of Toxicity:
- Overuse of high-dose vitamin D supplements
- Repeated or large vitamin D injections
- Underlying health conditions that raise calcium levels
Symptoms of Vitamin D Toxicity:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Confusion or memory issues
- Increased thirst and urination
- Kidney damage or kidney stones (due to excess calcium)
💉 Vitamin D Injection Side Effects
Vitamin D injections are sometimes used when fast correction is needed or when a person cannot absorb supplements. However, they must be taken only under medical supervision.
Common Side Effects:
- Upset stomach or nausea
- Constipation or abdominal pain
- Headaches or dizziness
- Loss of appetite
- Dry mouth or metallic taste
- High calcium levels in the blood (hypercalcemia)
Serious Risks (if overdosed):
- Kidney damage
- Irregular heartbeat
- Calcium deposits in arteries or soft tissues
📌 Tip: Never take vitamin D injections or high-dose supplements without a doctor’s prescription and follow-up testing.
🧪 Vitamin D Test Price in India
If you suspect a deficiency or are taking vitamin D regularly, it’s important to monitor your levels with a blood test. Here are the most common options available:
| Test Name | Price (INR) |
|---|---|
| Vitamin D Comprehensive Test | ₹3,500 |
| Vitamin D Screen Test | ₹3,000 |
| Vitamin D 25 – Hydroxy Test | ₹1,814 |
| Vitamin D Ultrasensitive Test | ₹3,000 |
| Vitamin D 1,25-Dihydroxy Test | ₹4,500 |
| Vitamin Screen Test | ₹2,223 |
💡 Note: Prices may vary based on city, lab, and test type. For the most accurate rates, visit www.dnalabsindia.com or call to book your test.
🏥 When Should You Get a Vitamin D Test?
You should consider a vitamin D test if you:
- Feel tired all the time without a clear cause
- Have bone or muscle pain
- Stay indoors most of the day
- Have dark skin or wear full-body covering outdoors
- Follow a vegetarian or vegan diet
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Are taking vitamin D supplements or injections
- Have a history of osteoporosis or kidney problems
Testing helps ensure your levels are in the safe, optimal range — not too low or too high.
✅ How to Maintain Healthy Vitamin D Levels
- Get 15–30 minutes of sun exposure at least 3–4 times a week
- Eat foods rich in vitamin D: fatty fish (like salmon), egg yolks, mushrooms, and fortified milk or cereals
- Take vitamin D supplements only if prescribed
- Get tested regularly to adjust your dosage safely
📌 Summary Table
| Condition | Symptoms | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Deficiency | Fatigue, bone/muscle pain, frequent illness | Test your vitamin D levels and consider diet or supplements |
| Toxicity | Nausea, constipation, confusion, kidney issues | Stop supplements and get medical help |
| Injection Side Effects | GI upset, high calcium, kidney strain | Only take under doctor’s advice |
| Test Price Range | ₹1,814 – ₹4,500 | Depends on test type – book online for best rates |
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the normal vitamin D level?
A: Ideal blood levels are 30–50 ng/mL. Below 20 ng/mL is considered deficient.
Q: Can I get too much vitamin D?
A: Yes. Excessive intake (especially injections or high-dose supplements) can lead to toxicity.
Q: Are vitamin D injections better than tablets?
A: Injections work faster but carry more risks. Tablets are preferred unless you have absorption issues.
Q: How often should I get tested?
A: Most people need to test once a year. If you’re on supplements or injections, follow your doctor’s schedule.
Q: Where can I get an affordable vitamin D test in India?
A: At DNA Labs India, vitamin D tests start from ₹1,814 and go up based on type. Home collection is available.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any supplement or medication.
