Things to Know About 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D Blood Test

 Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, immunity, and overall wellness. It protects the body from different diseases and health conditions. Through the liver, Vitamin D is usually converted into a chemical known as 25-hydroxyvitamin D or calcitriol before the body can use it. The level or amount of 25-hydroxy vitamin D in the blood shows how much vitamin D is present in the body. The 25-hydroxy vitamin D blood test is done to check or monitor vitamin D levels. Here is everything you should know about this test.

When should you get a 25-hydroxy vitamin D blood test?

The test is ordered to check whether too little or too much vitamin D is causing any issues like bone weakness, seizures, and other abnormalities in the body. Generally, doctors prescribe the hydroxy vitamin d blood test if they suspect a person is at risk of vitamin D deficiency. The symptoms of vitamin D deficiency are:

• Bone pain

• Weakening of the bones

• Bone deformity

• Abnormal bone development

• Seizures

• Muscle weakness or cramps

• Dental abnormalities

In addition, the test is also used to screen people at high risk of a vitamin D deficiency. These include people with:

• Obesity

• Age over 65

• Osteoporosis

• History of weight loss surgery

• Liver and kidney disease

• Limited sun exposure, resulting in reduced ability to make vitamin D in the skin

• Digestive diseases 

Test Procedure and Preparation 

It is a simple blood test where a healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. While there is no preparation needed, one should inform the doctor before the test about any supplements or medicines they take. 

Test Results 

The results of the 25-hydroxy vitamin D blood test can indicate the following:

• High levels: above 125 nmol/L (50 ng/mL)

• Normal levels: between 50 nmol/L (20 ng/mL) and 125 nmol/L (50 ng/mL)

• Deficiency: less than 30 nmol/L (12 ng/mL)

The treatment for vitamin D deficiency is usually dietary changes or supplements. A 25-hydroxy vitamin D test can be booked at a nominal price online for a home sample collection from any diagnostic lab.