Growth Problems
Sometimes it could be normal when your child seems much shorter or much taller than other kids of his or her age. Few children are short or tall because of their parents, while few other children have growth disorders. Growth disorders are problems that prevent children from developing normal height.
What are the risk factors for growth problems?
- Family history
- Hormonal disorders like hypothyroidism, growth hormone deficiency, cushing syndrome
- Systemic disease
- Genetic disorders like turner syndrome, noonan syndrome, silver russell syndrome
Symptoms of growth problems in a child
Probably, most growth problems are noticed first when the child appears smaller than his or her classmates, or when the growth slows down over several months. One of the main signs of a growth problem is when a child grows less than 4 cm/year after his or her 3rd birthday. While in other cases, a baby may be abnormally small because of being small for his or her gestational age at birth.
Growth problems may often lead to other problems or health conditions. Make sure your child sees his or her primary healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
Diagnosis of growth problems in a child
Growth problem may be diagnosed when a child’s growth is checked during regular exams. Generally, the diagnosis of a growth disorder is done by your child’s healthcare provider. The primary healthcare provider will ask about your child’s symptoms and health history even your family’s health history. A few blood tests and an X-ray of hand would be advised for assessment. Your child’s health and growth may be under observation for several months.
