My son is not growing well for his age. Please advise on the possible reasons and what can be done.
Poor growth in a child can occur for several reasons, and most are treatable when identified early. Common causes may include not getting enough nutritious food, frequent infections, long-term illness, poor food absorption in the stomach or intestines, or hormonal problems such as low growth hormone or thyroid imbalance. In some children, growth may also be slow due to family patterns in which parents are naturally shorter. It is important to check your child?s height and weight regularly and compare them with standard growth charts. A doctor may suggest blood tests, stool tests, or hormone tests if needed. Good nutrition is very important for growth. The child should eat a balanced diet that includes proteins, milk, fruits, vegetables, and cereals. Adequate sleep and regular outdoor play also support healthy growth. Please consult a paediatrician for a proper assessment to identify and treat any underlying problem early.