Rickets in children

Rickets in children: causes, symptoms and treatment options

Rickets in children is a fairly common problem and one that can have long-term consequences on their growth and development if not addressed promptly. In this article, we will tell you what the causes and symptoms of this disease are and how it can be treated!

What is rickets?

Rickets is a metabolic disorder that occurs during the child's growth and development period, characterized by a disturbance in bone mineralization. In other words, due to deficient bone mineralization, the bones of children with rickets are too soft, which means they can deform or fracture more easily.[1][2]

It is a disease that can often be cured, but it is important to treat it as soon as possible to avoid complications. In milder cases, these complications may involve affecting the normal bone development of children. In more severe cases, untreated rickets can lead to seizures, heart damage, and even death.[1][2]

Causes of rickets in children

The main cause of rickets in children is vitamin D deficiency, which is essential for the body's absorption of calcium and phosphorus, vital nutrients for bone health, from food. Vitamin D deficiency affects the balance of these nutrients in the body, which will affect the development and health of bones.[1][2][3]

Vitamin D deficiency can have multiple causes. It can occur due to an insufficient intake of vitamin D, a problem with its utilization by the body, or, in some cases, due to a simultaneous deficiency of calcium and vitamin D. Vitamin D can be obtained from two main sources: sunlight and diet. Insufficient exposure to sunlight and a diet low in vitamin D sources (e.g., fish oil, egg yolks, fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, foods and drinks fortified with vitamin D) can lead to the development of a vitamin D deficiency.[1][2][3]

However, there are also cases where children are born with or develop certain conditions that affect how their body absorbs vitamin D. Some examples include celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, cystic fibrosis, and kidney problems.[1][2][3]

In some cases, rickets can also be caused by a deficiency of calcium or phosphorus, even if the level of vitamin D is normal.[3]

Risk factors for rickets in children

Risk factors for rickets are multiple and include:

• dark skin;
• maternal vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy;
• premature birth;
• use of certain medications;
• exclusive breastfeeding without administering vitamin D supplements.[1]

Symptoms of rickets in children

Rickets in children is a condition that can present a series of distinct symptoms, depending on the severity of the disease and the stage of the child's development. One of the most evident signs of rickets is bone deformities such as:

• bowing of the legs in an O or X shape;
• widening of the knees or wrists;
• skull deformation;
• protruding or sunken sternum.[1][2][3]

Other symptoms of rickets in children are:

• bone pain;
• unusual curvature of the spine (e.g., kyphosis, lordosis, or scoliosis);
• growth delays;
• dental problems (e.g., delayed tooth eruption; dental cavities);
• muscle weakness;
• delays in developing motor skills;
• seizures (in case of severe calcium deficiency).[1][2][3]

In infants, the fontanelle (the soft spot on the head) may be larger and may close later than normal.[2]

Treatment options for rickets

Most cases of rickets, especially those of nutritional nature, can be cured if diagnosed early. Treatment of rickets in children aims to correct nutritional deficiencies and prevent complications and is often based on dietary changes, vitamin supplements, and increased sun exposure.[1][2][3]

The first step is most often increasing the intake of vitamin D and calcium by administering supplements and/or including more dietary sources of vitamin D/calcium in the daily diet. Attention! The administration of dietary supplements is done only at the doctor's recommendation, according to their indications and respecting the prescribed doses![1][2][3]

Sun exposure, with adequate sun protection, is also important because the body can naturally produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. In the case of intestinal malabsorption or other problems that affect the absorption of vitamin D, these conditions will also be treated.[1][2][3]

Bone deformities associated with rickets can be corrected either by wearing orthoses, physiotherapy exercises, and other non-surgical means, or, in severe cases, through surgical interventions.[1][2][3]

It is important to consult a doctor if you suspect that your child might have rickets. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and ensure healthy bone development. And if you want to prevent this problem from occurring, make sure that your child has a healthy, balanced diet that includes sufficient foods rich in vitamin D, and that they spend at least 10 - 15 minutes a day outdoors, exposing themselves to sunlight. Also, discuss with a doctor to find out if it is necessary to administer vitamin D supplements and to receive personalized recommendations.[1][2][3] Remember: prevention is always easier than treatment!

Bibliography:

1. "Rickets", Mayo Clinic, 2021. Accessed on 7 Oct. 2024.
2. "Rickets: Definition, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment", Cleveland Clinic, 8 Sept. 2023. Accessed on 7 Oct. 2024.
3. Weishaupt, Jeffrey. "What to Know about Rickets", WebMD, 8 Dec. 2021. Accessed on 7 Oct. 2024.