Warning Signs Linked To A Vitamin E Deficiency

Reduced or Absent Reflexes

Patients with a vitamin E deficiency could display reduced or absent reflexes. The deep tendon reflexes include the patellar, Achilles, bicep, tricep, and brachioradialis reflexes, and doctors check these as part of routine checkups. To assess reflexes, the physician will gently tap on certain areas of the patient's arms and legs to assess the degree of response. They will assess the strength of the patient's reflex response on a standard scale of zero to five, and will also check the patient's ability to feel vibrations and to distinguish between dull and sharp sensations.

Patients with vitamin E deficiencies could have a positive Babinski sign on this exam, and they will usually have trouble sensing vibrations. If abnormalities are found, blood tests and imaging studies might be performed to check for the underlying cause. Patients with reflex issues will be referred to a neurologist for further assessment, and they may need to take precautions to avoid falls when walking. The reflex examination will be repeated regularly to monitor the patient's progress, and reflexes typically return to normal as vitamin E levels stabilize.

Spinocerebellar Ataxia

Spinocerebellar ataxia is a neurological condition that affects the muscles, and it could occur in cases of severe vitamin E deficiency. Patients with spinocerebellar ataxia have trouble with walking and coordination of the hands and legs. These difficulties typically worsen over time, and they may progress to the point where the patient has difficulty with speech and swallowing. Vision could become impaired, and patients may display uncontrolled eye movements known as nystagmus. Muscles waste away, and some individuals could experience seizures and reduced cognitive function. Fatigue may be present as well. There are several types of spinocerebellar ataxia, and some of these are hereditary.

To evaluate a patient for spinocerebellar ataxia and other movement disorders, doctors will perform a physical examination to check the patient's gait and how they move certain muscles. Reflexes and sensation will be checked, and patients may need to have blood tests and CT or MRI scans of the brain. It can be helpful for the physician to know when the symptoms first began and if anything makes them better or worse. Patients may be offered medication to ease some symptoms, and physical therapy can help to improve coordination. Patients generally notice an improvement in their movement with the successful treatment of their vitamin E deficiency.