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Step 1
Stop eating raw eggs for dietary purposes. Consuming raw egg whites is one of the main causes of a Biotin deficiency. Some believe that this is the only cause, however, it is now known that there are other causes as well. Nevertheless, eating raw egg whites puts a person at a huge risk for the deficiency and should be avoided.
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Step 2
Discuss any antibiotic usage with your physician. Overuse of antibiotics can lead to a Biotin deficiency. Knowing the symptoms of the deficiency is the best way to determine if antibiotics are causing the problem. If antibiotics are identified as the cause of a Biotin deficiency, alternative antibiotics or treatments for the existing condition should be explored. If the antibiotic is determined to be absolutely necessary, Biotin injections given during treatment may prevent a deficiency from occurring.
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Step 3
Investigate any symptoms of a Biotin deficiency when anticonvulsant medications are being used. Some of these medicines prevent Biotin from traveling through the body properly. Continued use of most increase the risk of the deficiency, however, there are anticonvulsant medications available that do not cause a Biotin deficiency.
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Step 4
Include Biotin supplementation when receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Patients who are under TPN are at an increased risk of a Biotin deficiency. Adding Biotin supplementation will help to avoid this deficiency from occurring while the patient is under treatment.
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Step 5
Know the signs and symptoms of a Biotin deficiency. Some of the most common symptoms include changes in skin and hair. Both may become dryer. Hair loss is another common symptom that people may or may not experience because of this deficiency. Rashes and fungal infections should also be addressed. General feelings of illness can also be a sign. If a Biotin deficiency goes undiagnosed, symptoms can progress to changes in mental health and my include depression. A person at risk for the deficiency who is experiencing depression should discuss the symptom with their doctor.
