Vitamin Deficiency Triggers Shocking Seizures in 7-Month-Old, Doctor Reveals
A paediatrician has shared a rare case of severe vitamin D deficiency in one of her patients, which led to seizures. Dr Sanchi Rastogi revealed on social media how a seven-month-old baby – otherwise healthy and active – started experiencing sudden fits while playing.
Dr Rastogi said the baby rolled back their eyes, started shaking, and lost consciousness.
What happened to the baby?
According to Dr Rastogi, the baby’s mother explained the symptoms as tightening his limbs and shaking them vigorously – after which he would lose consciousness. Also, the child was not on any supplements, and his mother had stopped taking calcium after delivery.
The baby, suffering from vitamin D deficiency, was displaying these symptoms – common among kids across the world. Dr Rastogi said the infant’s EEG patterns improved after she was treated with B6, thereby confirming the diagnosis.
Why is vitamin D so important?
Vitamin D is among the many vitamins your body needs to stay healthy. Doctors say it plays an important role in maintaining the balance of calcium in your blood and bones and in building and maintaining bones. It is also needed by your body to use calcium and phosphorus, which help build bones and support healthy tissues. With chronic or severe vitamin D deficiency, a decline in calcium and phosphorus absorption by your intestines leads to hypocalcemia.
Hypocalcemia, if severe, can cause symptoms, including muscle weakness and cramps, fatigue, and depression.
What causes vitamin D deficiency?
In general, the two main causes of vitamin D deficiency are:
- Not getting enough vitamin D in your diet or through sunlight
- Your body is not properly absorbing or using vitamin D
- There are several specific causes of vitamin D deficiency, including:
- Certain medical conditions
- Weight-loss surgeries
- Certain medications
Several different biological and environmental factors can also put you at a greater risk of developing vitamin D deficiency, such as older age and the amount of melanin in your skin.
Ways to treat vitamin D deficiency
The goals of treatment and prevention for vitamin D deficiency are the same: to reach and then maintain an adequate vitamin D level in your body. While you might consider eating more foods containing vitamin D and getting more sunlight, your healthcare provider will likely recommend taking vitamin D supplements.
Vitamin D comes in two forms: D2 and D3. D2 comes from plants, while D3 comes from animals. You need a prescription to get D2. D3, however, is available over the counter. Your body more easily absorbs D3 than D2. You can work with your doctor to find out if you need a vitamin supplement and how much to take, if needed.
