Calcium deficiency in Children

Detecting a calcium deficiency in a growing child is extremely important as it can hamper both physical as well as mental growth and development.

1. Diseases associated with Low Calcium Levels in Children

2. Calcium Deficiency in Children Calcium is one of the most vital nutrients for growing kids. It helps in formation of bones and teeth, and helps in functioning of various vital organs like heart, muscles and nerves. Calcium deficiency or hypocalcaemia in children, shows up as teeth and bone health problems like rickets. Inclusion of calcium rich food along with vitamin D and calcium supplements is important to prevent rickets.

3. What causes calcium deficiency in kids? Low calcium levels in children can be due to several reasons. Some of the causes of calcium deficiency are pregnancy or childbirth related, while others are due to inappropriate feeding techniques . Here are some of the common causes of hypocalcaemia: Low oxygen levels during delivery Gestational diabetes in mom Certain medicines like g entamycin , used during pregnancy or in lactating mothers Vitamin D deficiency in baby Hypothyroidism in baby Extensive use of formula feed, that are rich in phosphorus contents Genetic disorders like DiGeorge syndrome

4. What symptoms can babies suffer from, if they have hypocalcaemia? If your kid is having a low calcium diet or having hypocalcaemia due to any other reason, he can have serious health issues. Mild hypocalcaemia may not show any signs or symptoms, but in severe cases, it can have life threatening symptoms. Hypocalcaemia symptoms include: Tremors or twitching of muscles Jerking of hands and legs Confusion Improper sleep pattern Delayed dentition While signs of low calcium levels include Convulsions or seizures (severe hypocalcaemia) Slow pulse rate Lowered blood pressure Deformities in joints It is always better to consult your pediatrician , if you notice any of these symptoms .

5. What can I do to improve my baby’s calcium intake ? A mild form of calcium deficiency may not show any symptoms, the best method to detect a calcium deficiency is through a blood test. If your pediatrician feels your baby is having hypocalcaemia, he may confirm it with a blood test. Once a calcium deficiency is confirmed, you may need to make certain dietary or feeding changes for your baby or may require c alcium drops for babies.

6. Keeping your baby exposed to sunlight helps in boosting vitamin D levels. Vitamin D increases calcium levels of the blood by increasing its absorption from food. Breastfeeding your baby and reducing or stopping formula feed, or exclusively breastfeeding your baby will aid in improving calcium levels. Breast feeding is the best calcium for kids. If you have a relatively poor milk flow, then choose a humanized milk formula and avoid cow or buffalo milk. If your baby had hypocalcaemia due to certain congenital issues, you may require to feed him calcium supplements. For kids above a year’s age, certain food like beans, lentils, almonds, spinach, figs, ragi , and dairy products like curd and yogurt, which are rich in calcium need to be given. If your baby has severe calcium deficiency, than he may require to take calcium or calcium and vitamin D supplements in the form of tablets or drops (as per your baby’s age ). Calcium deficiency treatment options