Rickets

Overview

Rickets is a childhood disease caused by insufficient vitamin D intake. It is common in impoverished regions such as Africa, largely due to malnutrition. Osteomalacia is a similar condition that occurs in adults.

Symptoms

• Excessive sweating
• Night terrors
• Occipital baldness
• Delayed tooth eruption
• Skeletal deformities

Treatment

Management focuses on supplementing vitamin D and calcium and getting more sun exposure. Dosages should be supplemented appropriately under a physician's guidance.

Dietary advice

Ensure foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, and increase sun exposure with appropriate outdoor activity.