The terms "slow weight gain," "poor growth," and "faltering growth/failure to thrive" are often used interchangeably to describe deviations from expected growth patterns in children.
However, it's important to distinguish between expected weight gain and minimal acceptable growth. A paediatrician can help determine if a child's growth pattern is within the normal range or if further investigation is necessary. The list of potential causes for poor growth is extensive, and a general paediatrician plays a crucial role in identifying the underlying reasons. The most common cause of slow weight gain is inadequate intake, which can result from various factors such as feeding difficulties, dietary issues, or illness. In such cases, a referral to an expert in child feeding can be instrumental in addressing and resolving the problem. If inadequate intake is ruled out, other potential causes of poor growth need to be considered, including:
- Allergies: Food allergies or intolerances can interfere with proper nutrition and growth.
- Coeliac Disease: An autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine, affecting nutrient absorption.
- Heart and Lung Conditions: Chronic illnesses that can impact a child's ability to grow normally.
- Endocrine and Metabolic Problems: Rare but significant conditions that can affect growth, such as hormonal imbalances or metabolic disorders.
Concerns about linear growth, or height, are also common reasons for seeking a paediatrician's advice. A child's height gain is influenced by factors such as heredity, gender, and environmental factors like nutrition. To assess whether there is a problem with linear growth, serial measurements of height over time are necessary. This allows the paediatrician to track growth patterns and determine if any intervention is needed. In summary, growth concerns in children are complex and can have various underlying causes. A general paediatrician's expertise is vital in diagnosing the issue and guiding families toward appropriate interventions, ensuring that children receive the support they need for healthy growth and development. Other growth/endocrine conditions in which a paediatrician can provide expert assessment and guidance are:
- Obesity
- Disorders of puberty i.e late or early onset of puberty
- Menstrual disorders