Question
A neighbor’s child has been diagnosed with rickets, with an unusual appearance of the legs. What are the main symptoms of pediatric rickets?
Answer
The initial symptoms of pediatric rickets typically involve neurological aspects, such as irritability, night awakenings, and excessive sweating, especially during breastfeeding and crying, which may even wet the pillow. Subsequently, there may be abnormalities in bone growth and development, including spinal curvature and the formation of O-shaped or X-shaped legs in the lower limbs. The upper limbs may manifest as a ‘bracelet-like’ appearance with the wrist ulna and radius ends becoming rounded and thickened. Rickets can have a significant impact on children, so it is recommended that parents take their child to a specialist for consultation and treatment under medical guidance. In daily life, moderation giving children juice can help supplement vitamins, prevent diarrhea, and hope for the child’s early recovery.