Question

A parent from a mountainous area in Sichuan mentioned that their newborn son had symptoms of scalp hemorrhage, and the doctor diagnosed it as vitamin K deficiency. The parent is concerned about the treatment methods and potential complications, and hopes to receive professional medical advice.

Answer

Vitamin K is a coagulation vitamin that is crucial for preventing neonatal hemorrhagic diseases and promoting normal blood coagulation. Deficiency in vitamin K may lead to neonatal coagulation dysfunction. To prevent vitamin K deficiency, a vitamin K injection can be administered to the newborn at birth and after one month. In addition, breastfeeding mothers can indirectly supply vitamin K to their infants by consuming foods rich in vitamin K, such as beef liver, fish liver oil, and egg yolks. For older babies, vitamin K can be obtained through daily diet, such as dark green vegetables and certain legumes. The most effective preventive measure is to administer a strengthened vitamin K injection at birth and after one month to prevent hemorrhagic diseases.