Monday, February, 13, 2012

Delayed growth

Table of Contents

Alternative Names

Growth - slow (child 0 - 5 years); Weight gain - slow (child 0 - 5 years); Slow rate of growth; Retarded growth and development; Growth delay


Home Care

If slow weight gain is due to a lack of calories, try feeding the child on demand. Increase the amount of food offered to the child. Offer nutritional, high-calorie foods.

It is very important to prepare formula exactly according to directions. Do not water down (dilute) ready-to-feed formula.


Call your health care provider if

Contact your health care provider if you think developmental delays or emotional issues may be contributing to a child's delayed growth.

If your child is not growing due to a lack of calories, your health care provider can refer you to a nutrition expert who can help you choose the right foods to offer your child.


What to expect at your health care provider's office

The health care provider will examine the child and measure height, weight, and head circumference. The parent or caregiver will be asked questions about the child's medical history, including:

  • Has the child always been on the low end of the growth charts?
  • Did the child's growth start out normal and then slow down?
  • Is the child developing normal social skills and physical skills?
  • Does the child eat well? What kinds of foods does the child eat?
  • What type of feeding schedule is used?
  • Is the infant fed by breast or bottle?
  • If the baby is breast fed, what medications does the mother take?
  • If bottle-fed, what kind of formula is used? How is the formula mixed?
  • What medications or supplements does the child take?
  • How tall are the child's biological parents? How much do they weigh?
  • What other symptoms are present?

The health care provider may also ask questions about parenting habits and the child's social interactions.

Tests may include:

  • Blood tests (such as a CBC or blood differential)
  • Stool studies (to check for poor nutrient absorption)
  • Urine tests
  • X-rays to determine bone age and to look for fractures

Review Date: 01/17/2011
Reviewed By: Jennifer K. Mannheim, ARNP, Medical Staff, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Seattle Children's Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)