Rickets
Rickets is a condition in which the bones of children become brittle which can cause potential risks of fracture or bone deformation. The major perpetrator of this disease is the deficiency of Calciferol or Vitamin D. inadequacy of calcium may also be a strong reason for formation of rickets. The occurrence of this disease in children is most prominent, largely due to the ill-effects of malnutrition and starvation. An identical condition afflicting adults is called as osteomalacia.
Infants who are lactose intolerant and unexposed to sunlight are the ones who are most vulnerable to this disease. Some of the major symptoms of rickets are brittleness of the bones, muscular weakness, and deformity of the skeletal system. There are also instances of dental ailments, stunting of growth and deformities of the pelvic region.
Diagnosis of rickets can be done by way of blood tests and biopsy of the bone. Prevention of rickets can be done by ensuring an adequate supply of vitamin D and calcium. Also ample exposure to the sunlight would do a world of good in keeping rickets away.
Treatment involves inclusion of adequate supplements of vitamin D and Calcium. Also exposure to sunlight and intake of phosphorus rich diet will help in the cure of rickets.