Question

A five-month-old baby sweats excessively during sleep, has a large fontanelle, and a bald spot on the head. Does this mean the baby is deficient in calcium? The baby has been taking vitamin D supplements since the first month. How should calcium be supplemented, and what should the baby eat now?

Answer

Excessive sweating during sleep, a large fontanelle, and a bald spot on the head in a five-month-old baby could be signs of calcium deficiency. You can give the baby oral vitamin D supplements and complement with calcium carbonate effervescent granules for calcium supplementation. If you are still concerned, you can undergo a trace element test to determine the extent of the calcium deficiency and avoid over-supplementation that could lead to toxicity. Additionally, parents should also pay attention to the diet, consuming more calcium-rich foods to aid in the baby’s recovery.