Slow physical growth in an infant or toddler is known as failure to thrive (FTT), which is due to a lack of nutrients. Make sure to look out for your children by understanding the condition, looking out for the symptoms, and seeking Orlando urgent care for kids.
Read on to find out more about Failure to Thrive in children.
What Causes FTT in Children?
FTT can arise from numerous reasons, and it is likely caused by a combination of factors in some circumstances. Possibly, an infant or youngster isn’t getting enough nutrients and calories. This can happen if the little one:
- Has difficulty swallowing
- Has eating issues due to developmental delays
- Has issues with breastfeeding
- Does not receive adequate amounts of breastmilk, formula, or food
- Isn’t provided solid meals when they should be
- Does not eat enough food
- Vomits food regularly, as if suffering from severe gastroesophageal reflux
An infant or toddler may consume enough food yet cannot absorb the much-needed nutrients and calories. This can happen if a young child is dealing with an issue such as:
- Cystic fibrosis
- Celiac disease
- Severe food intolerance or allergies
A child with an ongoing chronic illness may require more calories and nutrients than normal, especially those with hereditary conditions or congenital cardiac disease.
In some instances, a family may not have adequate support or awareness of what a newborn requires. Alternatively, they may not supply the appropriate types or quantities of food. If food is intentionally withheld from a baby, it can result in FTT in severe situations of neglect or abuse.
Which Kids Are at Risk?
If a child lives in a home that struggles with poverty, excessive stress, or poor parental coping abilities, they are more likely to have FTT.
What Are the Signs of FTT?
Symptoms vary from infant to baby and from kid to child. They may include the following:
- Delayed motor development
- Inadequate weight gain
- Irritability
- Lack of social responses, such as smiling
- Learning and behavioral problems in older kids
- Low age-appropriate height (or length, if a baby)
- No vocal sounds
- Tiredness and sleepiness
Failure to thrive might have symptoms similar to those of other illnesses. If you suspect that your kid might have FTT, make an appointment for kids urgent care in Orlando, FL, for a diagnosis.
How Is FTT Diagnosed?
A healthcare practitioner is generally the one to identify failure to thrive. During routine checks, they will weigh and measure the baby, to assess the baby’s growth and development. If the child isn’t within normal limits for these measurements, further investigation can lead to a diagnosis.
How Is A Child’s FTT Treated?
The child’s treatment will be determined by their symptoms, age, overall health condition, and the severity of the ailment. Your child may need to see more than one doctor, such as:
- Geneticist
- Nutritionist
- Physical Therapist
- Social Worker
The healthcare experts will work with the family to determine the reason for FTT and offer more nutrients to the kids.
What Are the Complications of FTT in A Child?
A kid with FTT is at risk for a variety of issues, including:
- Behavioral issues
- Delays in development
- Lack of problem-solving skills
- School-related issues
- Short stature
How To Prevent FFT in Children?
The issue can be avoided if a child’s dietary needs are addressed early on. If there are food intolerances or allergies, they must be diagnosed as soon as possible.
Conclusion
FTT occurs when a kid is not getting enough calories or cannot utilize them, failing to develop physically and gain weight over time. Make sure to get your child checked regularly to ensure that they are growing as they should.
Here at Your Kid’s Urgent Care, we are dedicated to providing your child with the highest quality of urgent pediatric care. After all, trust is at the top of your list when it comes to urgent care for kids in Orlando, FL. Contact us today!
