Faltering Growth

What is Faltering Growth ❓

 Lower weight/rate of weight gain than would be expected in a child 👶

 Also known as failure to thrive & under-nutrition 

 Causes: inadequate nutrition, vomiting, infection, food sensitivities/allergies, some conditions e.g. cystic fibrosis 🤒

What are the Symptoms of Faltering Growth ❓

 Not meeting expected weight for age/sex 💯

How do you diagnose Faltering Growth ❓

 Weight and body mass Index (BMI) measurement 

 Professional assessment 📋

How do you Treat Faltering Growth ❓

 Supplementary feed

 Advice & support with improving feeding 🍎

 Treat any underlying condition

 Referral to child specialists 🏥

Why should I Worry about Faltering Growth ❓

 It can be normal in first days of life (fluid adjustments)

 Can affect long term growth  👨

 Behaviour/cognition/attention problems may persist

 May affect functioning of internal organs