A child can look perfectly healthy and still be growing too slowly. Regular measurement on a growth chart is the simplest way to catch a problem early — whether it is diet, an absorption problem in the gut, a chronic illness or simply a family growth pattern.
Signs parents notice
- Weight or height not increasing over several months
- Clothes and shoes still fitting after a long time
- Being much smaller than classmates
- Frequent illnesses, loose stools or poor appetite
Common causes
- Inadequate calorie or protein intake
- Malabsorption, such as coeliac disease or chronic diarrhoea
- Chronic liver, kidney, heart or lung conditions
- Hormonal causes
- Constitutional delay and family short stature
How Dr. Jenny evaluates & treats
- Accurate measurement and plotting on WHO growth charts
- Diet and family history
- Targeted tests when the pattern suggests an underlying cause
- Nutrition rehabilitation plan
- Referral to endocrinology or other specialists when needed
When to see a doctor
- Weight loss or crossing down two growth lines
- Poor growth with diarrhoea, vomiting or tummy swelling
- Delayed milestones together with poor growth
Serial: 01786-126908 · In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Watch: Dr. Jenny explains
Nutrition & growth
শিশুর ওজন বাড়ছে না? দেখতে স্বাভাবিক হলেও অবহেলা নয়!
Child not gaining weight — don't ignore it
Watch on YouTubeNutrition & growth
বাচ্চা খেতে চায় না? কারণ হতে পারে এই সমস্যাগুলো!
My child won't eat — possible reasons
Watch on YouTubeFrequently asked questions
How often should my child's growth be checked?
In infancy at every vaccination visit, and then at least once or twice a year. Bring previous records so the trend can be plotted.
This page gives general information for parents and is being reviewed by Dr. Ferdous Ara Jenny. It does not replace a consultation — every child is different.