child’s height Image Credit source: AI Generated
Every parent wants their child to be healthy and his or her height and weight increase according to age, but sometimes the height of some children grows more slowly than others. In such a situation, it is natural for parents to be worried. However, the growth of every child is not the same. The height of some children grows quickly, while the growth of others may be a little slow. Therefore, it is not considered right to compare only with other children.
If child’s height If it is not growing for a long time or its growth has become much slower than before, then it should not be ignored. Sometimes this happens due to normal reasons, while in some cases doctor’s advice and examination may be required. By paying attention to growth on time, if there is any health problem, its treatment can be started early. Let us know what are the reasons why a child’s height can stop, when a doctor should be seen, what tests can be done and what should be done for good growth.
For what reasons can a child’s height stop?
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) According to this, there can be many reasons for a child’s height being low or growing slowly. Many times, due to the short height of the parents, the height of the child may also be less than normal. In some children, growth and puberty start a little late, so their height increases later. Apart from this, lack of growth hormone in the body, thyroid problem, nutritional deficiency, celiac disease, kidney or some heart diseases can also affect growth.
In some cases, genetic reasons may also be responsible. However, the reason cannot be determined just by looking at the height of the child. Doctors find out the exact cause by looking at the child’s age, growth record, length of family and his overall health condition.
When should the child be seen by the doctor?
If the height of the child is not increasing for a long time or he is not growing at a normal pace according to his age, then a doctor should be consulted. According to the AAP, doctors don’t just look at the height at one time, but also look at a record of the child’s growth over time.
If the child is lagging behind his normal growth or his height consistently appears to be short for his age, testing may be needed. In such cases, it is better to consult a pediatrician without any delay, so that treatment can be started on time if needed.
What tests can the doctor conduct if the height is reduced?
First of all the doctor looks at the height and weight of the child on the growth chart. After this they take information about the medical history of the child and the family. If necessary, X-ray of the hand and wrist can be done to know the age of the bones.
In some cases, blood tests are also done to detect growth hormone, thyroid or other health problems. The doctor decides which test to do according to the condition of the child.
What to do for good growth of the child?
For good growth of the child, give him a balanced and nutritious food, which includes protein, calcium, iron and other essential nutrients. Make the child a habit of playing and doing physical activities daily.
Complete sleep is also very important for growth. Keep checking the child’s height and weight from time to time and keep an eye on his growth. If there is any concern regarding growth, the best way is to consult a doctor instead of relying on home remedies or medicines.
