Vitamin d deficiency newborn symptoms
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Symptoms of Vitamin D Deficiency in Newborns
Introduction to Vitamin D Deficiency in Newborns
Vitamin D deficiency is a significant health concern for newborns, with various symptoms and complications arising from inadequate levels of this essential nutrient. This article synthesizes research findings on the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency in newborns, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention.
Early Signs: Shudders, Shivers, and Jitteriness
One of the earliest signs of vitamin D deficiency in newborns can be mild, incidental shivering, jitteriness, or tremors. These symptoms often lead to extensive and invasive testing to determine the cause, but vitamin D deficiency is not typically considered in the differential diagnosis. Studies have shown that these symptoms may indeed be early indicators of vitamin D deficiency, suggesting that neonates presenting with such signs should be evaluated for this deficiency1.
Hypocalcemia and Its Symptoms
Vitamin D deficiency in newborns is closely linked to hypocalcemia, a condition characterized by low levels of calcium in the blood. Symptoms of hypocalcemia in newborns include muscle cramps, irritability, and seizures. Research indicates that vitamin D deficiency, often secondary to maternal deficiency, is a common cause of symptomatic hypocalcemia in newborns3 7. This condition underscores the importance of vitamin D supplementation for pregnant and lactating mothers to prevent neonatal hypocalcemia.
Respiratory Symptoms
Respiratory issues are another common symptom associated with vitamin D deficiency in newborns. Studies have found that infants with vitamin D deficiency often present with respiratory symptoms such as cough, respiratory distress, and wheezing. These symptoms are prevalent in infants whose mothers have limited exposure to sunlight due to geographical or lifestyle factors4. Additionally, there is a significant correlation between low vitamin D levels and an increased risk of acute lower respiratory infections (ALRI) in newborns8.
Poor Fetal Growth and Low Birth Weight
Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy can lead to poor fetal growth and low birth weight in newborns. This deficiency is also associated with other complications such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes in mothers, which can further impact neonatal health2 5. Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels during pregnancy is crucial for the healthy development of the fetus and the prevention of these adverse outcomes.
Rickets and Bone Health
One of the classic manifestations of severe vitamin D deficiency in newborns is rickets, a condition that affects bone development and leads to skeletal deformities. Radiological evaluations often reveal signs of rickets in infants with vitamin D deficiency, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and treatment to prevent long-term bone health issues4 5.
Conclusion
Vitamin D deficiency in newborns can present with a range of symptoms, from early signs like shudders and jitteriness to more severe conditions such as hypocalcemia, respiratory issues, poor growth, and rickets. Early detection and intervention, including vitamin D supplementation for pregnant and lactating mothers, are essential to prevent these complications and ensure the healthy development of newborns.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Benign Neonatal Shudders, Shivers, Jitteriness, or Tremors: Early Signs of Vitamin D Deficiency
Newborns with mild shivering, jitteriness, or tremors may have vitamin D deficiency, requiring investigation for potential health complications.
Case ReportVitamin D deficiency in mothers, neonates and children
Vitamin D deficiency can lead to severe complications in mothers and neonates, causing rickets, poor fetal growth, and infantile eczema.
Highly CitedNineteen cases of symptomatic neonatal hypocalcemia secondary to vitamin D deficiency: a 2-year study.
Vitamin D deficiency in newborn infants is common in Qatar, leading to hypocalcemic symptoms in their mothers, suggesting the need for vitamin D supplementation in pregnant and lactating mothers.
Case ReportCharacteristics of vitamin D deficiency in early infancy
Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in early infancy, particularly in infants with hypocalcemia whose mothers are less exposed to sunlight due to geographical conditions and lifestyle choices.
RCTVitamin D: Before, during and after Pregnancy: Effect on Neonates and Children
Vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy and infants can lead to complications, such as low birth weight, lower bone mass, and potential autoimmune diseases and autism.
Very Rigorous JournalHighly CitedEffects of vitamin D on neonatal sepsis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Low levels of vitamin D in both maternal and cord blood significantly increase the risk of neonatal sepsis, suggesting that vitamin D supplementation for pregnant women and newborns could decrease this risk.
Meta-AnalysisRelationship between vitamin D deficiency and neonatal hypocalcemia: a meta-analysis
Newborns with vitamin D deficiency and maternal vitamin D deficiency are at a higher risk of neonatal hypocalcemia, suggesting that vitamin D supplementation may help reduce this risk.
Meta-AnalysisAssociation of subclinical vitamin D deficiency in newborns with acute lower respiratory infection and their mothers
Newborns with subclinical vitamin D deficiency may have an increased risk of acute lower respiratory infection, and adequate vitamin D supplementation for mothers during pregnancy is crucial, especially in winter months.
Observational StudyHighly CitedHigh prevalence of vitamin D deficiency among pregnant women and their newborns in northern India.
High prevalence of hypovitaminosis D in pregnant women and newborns in northern India warrants public health intervention.
Observational StudyHighly CitedEffect of Oral Vitamin D3 Supplementation in Exclusively Breastfed Newborns: Prospective, Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Trial
Oral vitamin D3 supplementation at 400 IU/d from 10 days of age in exclusively breastfed infants increased serum 25(OH)D levels at 4 months of age, but did not affect bone mineralization.
RCTVery Rigorous Journal