Symptoms of Calcium Deficiency in Infants:
The symptoms of calcium deficiency may not be obvious in infants and may only be detected through blood tests. However, some symptoms, if present, indicate a calcium deficiency, including:
- Seizures in the infant.
- Trembling movements in the limbs.
- Excessive irritability.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Spontaneous muscle contractions in the infant, appearing in the facial muscles, hands, and feet.
- Slow heart rate.
- Low blood pressure.
- Trembling.
Causes of Calcium Deficiency in Infants:
1- Poor maternal nutrition during pregnancy and a deficiency in essential vitamins for the health of the fetus.
2- Insufficient oxygen supply to the baby during birth.
3- Some medications used to treat bacterial infections in children can affect calcium levels in infants.
4- Medical News Today reported that children with a genetic disorder called DiGeorge syndrome can experience low calcium levels.
5- According to some studies, maternal diabetes during pregnancy can lead to calcium deficiency in the child.
6- Another study cited by Healthline indicated that premature babies, born before 32 weeks, are more prone to calcium deficiency.
Complications of Calcium Deficiency in Infants:
- Calcium deficiency can delay tooth development and cause dental problems such as misalignment and loose teeth.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Persistent loss of appetite.
- A weakened immune system, making the child more susceptible to certain illnesses.
Treating Calcium Deficiency in Infants:
A doctor may prescribe calcium supplements for the child if necessary. However, low blood calcium levels in infants usually don't last long. A blood test can be done to check calcium levels.
Mothers should eat calcium-rich foods, as calcium is passed to the infant through breastfeeding.
Exposing the baby to direct sunlight is important because it increases vitamin D levels in the blood, which in turn helps the body absorb calcium.
If formula-feeding, choose a calcium-fortified formula and avoid cow's milk altogether.