Symptoms of Rickets
Apr 18, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
Rickets symptoms typically include irritability, restlessness, increased nervous system excitability, difficulty falling asleep at night, nocturnal crying, and general agitation. In some cases,枕秃 (occipital alopecia) and excessive sweating may also occur. Around 5 months of age, inadequate vitamin D supplementation may lead to cranial softening (craniotabes). By approximately 8 months of age, it may cause cartilaginous swelling at the wrists and ankles, resulting in wrist and ankle “bracelets.”
Rickets is a chronic nutritional disorder commonly occurring during infancy and early childhood, particularly within the first week of life. What are the clinical manifestations of rickets?
Clinical Manifestations of Rickets
Typical symptoms of rickets include irritability, restlessness, heightened nervous system excitability, difficulty falling asleep at night, nocturnal crying, and general agitation. Additional signs may include occipital alopecia (bald patch on the back of the head) and excessive sweating. If vitamin D supplementation is not initiated promptly, infants around five months of age may develop cranial softening (craniotabes). By approximately eight months of age, accumulation of unmineralized cartilage may lead to characteristic deformities such as wrist and ankle “bracelets,” and “rachitic rosary” (beading) along the ribs. Around one year of age, impaired cartilage development may result in lower-limb deformities, including genu varum (bowlegs) or genu valgum (knock-knees).
In the early stages of rickets, vitamin D supplementation—along with adequate calcium intake—is recommended to prevent “bone hunger.” For more severe cases, treatment may require phosphorus supplementation, high-dose vitamin D, and additional calcium. Early detection and prompt intervention are essential to minimize long-term complications.
Individuals with rickets should incorporate regular physical activity into daily life to enhance immune function and overall resistance. A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables—naturally high in vitamins—is encouraged, while consumption of greasy, raw, cold, or spicy/irritating foods should be minimized. Adequate rest and sufficient sleep are vital; frequent late-night activity should be avoided. Regular sun exposure also helps prevent rickets. We hope this information is helpful to you.
