Failure to Thrive (FTT) is a term used to describe children who are not growing or gaining weight at the expected rate for their age. This condition can result from various underlying causes, including medical, nutritional, or environmental factors. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in helping children with FTT catch up on growth and avoid long-term developmental issues. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, our experienced pediatricians provide comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans for children with failure to thrive, helping families throughout Atlanta support their child’s health and development.
What Is Failure to Thrive?
Failure to thrive occurs when a child’s weight or height falls below the expected growth standards for their age, or when a child is not gaining weight at the expected rate. FTT can be classified into two categories:
Organic FTT
caused by underlying medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders, metabolic issues, or chronic illness.
Non-Organic FTT
resulting from environmental factors, such as inadequate nutrition, feeding difficulties, or psychosocial issues.
Early recognition and treatment of FTT are essential to prevent potential complications, including developmental delays or long-term health concerns.
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Symptoms of Failure to Thrive
The symptoms of failure to thrive can vary, but common signs in infants and children include:
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A child’s weight may not increase as expected, or they may lose weight over time.
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Height and head circumference may not follow the typical growth patterns for the child’s age.
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A child may eat very little or show disinterest in feeding or eating.
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Children with FTT may be delayed in meeting milestones, such as sitting, crawling, or walking.
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Some children with FTT may become more irritable or fatigued, showing less energy than other children their age.
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Frequent vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation may be present in children with underlying medical causes for FTT.
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Children with FTT may have a thin or frail appearance, with reduced muscle mass and body fat.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, it is important to consult with a pediatrician for a thorough evaluation. Early diagnosis is essential for developing an effective treatment plan to support your child’s growth and development.
Diagnosing Failure to Thrive
Diagnosing failure to thrive involves a comprehensive evaluation of the child’s medical history, growth patterns, and overall health. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, our diagnostic process includes:
Growth Monitoring
We track your child’s growth using standardized growth charts to assess weight, height, and head circumference over time. A significant drop in these measurements may indicate FTT.
Nutritional Assessment
Our team evaluates your child’s dietary intake, feeding habits, and nutritional status to identify potential issues with nutrient absorption or caloric intake.
Medical History and Physical Examination
A detailed medical history, including any previous illnesses or feeding difficulties, is taken. A physical examination helps identify potential underlying health problems, such as gastrointestinal disorders or metabolic issues.
Laboratory Tests
Blood tests, stool tests, or imaging may be performed to rule out medical conditions that could contribute to poor growth, such as infections, malabsorption, or metabolic disorders.
Family and Environmental Assessment
We assess any environmental or psychosocial factors that could be affecting your child’s nutrition or overall health, including feeding practices and family dynamics.
Once we have gathered this information, we work closely with families to develop an individualized treatment plan to address the specific causes of FTT.
Treatment for Failure to Thrive
Treatment for failure to thrive focuses on addressing the underlying causes of poor growth and supporting healthy weight gain. Depending on the root cause, treatment may include:
Nutritional Intervention
For many children with FTT, improving nutrition is a key part of treatment. Our pediatricians work with families to create balanced, nutrient-rich meal plans tailored to the child’s specific needs. This may involve increasing calorie intake through more frequent feedings, offering high-calorie, nutrient-dense foods, or providing specialized formulas for infants. In cases where feeding difficulties are present, our team can offer guidance on improving feeding techniques and behaviors.
Addressing Underlying Medical Conditions
If an underlying medical condition, such as gastrointestinal issues or a metabolic disorder, is contributing to FTT, treating that condition is essential for promoting healthy growth. This may involve medication, dietary modifications, or referrals to specialists for further care.
Behavioral and Psychosocial Support
In cases of non-organic FTT, addressing behavioral or environmental factors is critical. Our pediatricians may work with families to establish healthier feeding routines, reduce stress during meal times, or address any underlying psychosocial challenges that may be impacting the child’s growth. We may also collaborate with nutritionists, occupational therapists, or other professionals to provide a holistic approach to care.
Monitoring Progress of FTT
After initiating treatment, regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor your child’s progress and adjust the care plan as needed. We closely track weight gain, height, and developmental milestones to ensure that your child is improving and catching up on growth. With consistent care and support, most children with FTT can recover and achieve normal growth patterns over time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Failure to Thrive
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FTT can result from a variety of factors, including medical conditions (organic FTT) or environmental factors (non-organic FTT). Common causes include feeding difficulties, inadequate nutrition, chronic illnesses, and gastrointestinal disorders.
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Treatment depends on the underlying cause but often includes nutritional interventions, addressing medical conditions, and providing behavioral or psychosocial support to improve feeding practices and promote healthy growth.
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Without treatment, FTT can lead to developmental delays, weakened immunity, and potential long-term growth issues. Early intervention and consistent treatment can help prevent these complications.
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Signs of FTT include poor weight gain, delayed growth, reduced appetite, and developmental delays. If you have concerns about your child’s growth or feeding habits, consult with your pediatrician for an evaluation.
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With appropriate treatment and monitoring, most children with FTT are able to catch up on growth and achieve normal weight and height over time.
Schedule an Appointment for Failure to Thrive Treatment in Atlanta
If you are concerned about your child’s growth or development, contact Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine to schedule an evaluation. Our experienced pediatricians provide expert diagnosis and treatment for failure to thrive at our locations in Glenwood Park, Brookhaven, and Decatur, serving families throughout Atlanta.