Zinc Deficiency: Symptoms

What are the symptoms of zinc deficiency?

Zinc is essential for growth, cell division and reproduction, blood cell development, and the senses. As a result, if you are deficient in zinc, your symptoms can affect many of your bodily systems and functions.

Common symptoms of zinc deficiency

Common symptoms of zinc deficiency include:

• Alopecia (hair loss or thinning)
• Delayed sexual maturation (in men)
• Diarrhea
• Dry or scaly skin
• Loss of appetite
• Loss of vision or changes in vision
• Poor or stunted growth
• Recurring infections
• Reduced sense of smell or taste
• Slow-healing wounds or bruises, or other conditions
• Unexplained weight loss

Symptoms that might indicate a serious condition

In some cases, zinc deficiency can be a serious condition that should be immediately evaluated in an emergency setting. Seek prompt medical care if you, or someone you are with, have any of these serious symptoms:

• Developmental delays and failure to thrive (in children)
• Recurring infections
• Unusual or extreme weight loss