Early symptoms of rickets

Rickets, also known as vitamin D deficiency rickets, is primarily caused by insufficient vitamin D, leading to abnormal calcium and phosphorus metabolism and affecting bone development. In the early stages, symptoms of rickets may not be obvious. However, as the condition progresses, the following signs may appear: 1. Muscle weakness: Early symptoms may include muscle hypotonia and reduced strength, particularly in the legs. Children may appear more fatigued and reluctant to stand or walk. 2. Sleep disturbances: Infants and young children may experience increased night sweating, particularly on the head, as well as frequent night awakenings and irritability. 3. Skeletal changes: Early bone softening may lead to mild thoracic deformities, such as flared ribs, and slight deformities of the lower limb bones (e.g., knees), such as early signs of bowlegs ("O" legs) or knock-knees ("X" legs). 4. Developmental delay: Children may experience slowed growth rates, with height gain lagging behind that of peers. 5. Cranial softening: In infancy, the cranial sutures may widen and feel soft upon palpation, a condition known as the "craniotabes" or "ping-pong skull," indicating skull softening. If these symptoms are observed, timely consultation with a physician is recommended, as early diagnosis and treatment can effectively prevent further progression of the disease. Supplementing with vitamin D, increasing outdoor activities to promote cutaneous synthesis of vitamin D, and ensuring adequate calcium intake are all key measures in the prevention and management of rickets.