a short public service announcement

[loneraven]

So the more astute of my friends have noticed that I walk with a limp. I have done, on and off, for about six months, and the reason why has just come to light. Which is also the reason why - somewhat circuitously - this is a public post.

My friends, let me talk to you about vitamin D deficiency.

Comments

[highfantastical]

and partly because vitamin D deficiency is very easy to cure. Cod liver oil! (Ewwww.)

If you don't like the replacement therapy you're on, because of the taste, ask for something else. I have chronic severe vitamin D deficiency (i.e. levels periodically hitting 'undetectable'), and of course can't have cod liver oil, but there are VERY high-dose replacement therapies available on prescription which will take you to a healthy level much faster. I'm surprised your GP hasn't considered these, unless there's a serious reason (e.g. allergy) why you can't take them.* They are more expensive, but that's a ludicrous reason to put you on CLO for months when you report impairment.

*Obviously not asking you to share additional medical details. But my understanding from immunologists with whom I've discussed this issue is that it's preferable to correct deficiencies over weeks rather than months.

[parrot_knight]

Nothing profound to say except wish you recovery.

[loneraven]

Thank you, my friend. :)

[littlered2]

"You see," she said, sagely, "this is why my people engage in public nudity wherever possible"
Um. Did she recommend you follow their example?

That all sounds very unpleasant - I'm sorry you're experiencing it. But hurrah for it being diagnosed and treated! I hope you start feeling the effects of the cod liver oil before too long.

[loneraven]

She didn't, but did go on a small digression about Finnish legislation regarding public indecency. :P thank you!

[tau_sigma]

Oooh, that sounds intriguing! And seconding that you should feel better soon. <3

[loneraven]

In my case, it's that the cod liver oil does the job and is a little cheaper - the NHS-branded supplements would involve paying the prescription charge - and also, the standard supplements have calcium in them as well, which I don't actually need. <3 <3 thank you! I'm pleased to have been of help.

[not_hathor]

Several years ago my doctor ordered me to start taking 2000 IU of Vitamin D daily as a preventative against bone cancers. Earlier this year he upped it to 5000 (plus extra calcium and zinc). My older sister, who recently went through thyroid treatment, has been diagnosed as having a serious Vit. D deficiency as well. I really had no idea how common the condition was -- Thank you for your Public Service announcement!

[loneraven]

You're very welcome! :)