Failure to Thrive
Feeding & Colon Conditions
FACTS:
- “Failure to thrive” is a term used when children do not gain weight like they should. This condition can be fatal.
- It can be caused by medical issues such as heart defects, infections, cleft lip, or lack of emotional and physical stimulation.
- Failure to thrive can occur when a baby’s formula is mixed with more water than the package instructions state. This weak formula leads to poor nutrition and low weight gain.
- The main cause of failure to thrive, however, is a simple lack of touch and love. Babies can become depressed and lose the desire to eat when they do not have consistent loving care.
- Touching a baby helps to calm him or her. Eye to eye contact is essential to the healthy development of a child.
- Children who are in institutions or hospitals are at an increased risk for failure to thrive. Many babies simply seem to “give up” their desire to grow.
- Failure to thrive should be identified early and appropriate treatment started so that normal growth and development can occur.
SIGNS IN BABIES:
- Decrease in weight gain or malnourishment.
- Poor physical development. For example, the child does not crawl, roll over, walk or talk at the same age as healthy children.
- Lack of interest in people and toys.
- Absence of smiling or vocalization.
- Dislikes being held and avoids eye-to-eye contact.
- Child is quiet and doesn’t cry or is frequently inconsolable, irritable and fussy.
- Poor feeding, vomiting, sleep disturbance, or spitting up of food.
- Decreased or absent appetite.
- Repetitive behaviors such as head banging and rocking – a sign more stimulation is needed.
TREATMENT:
- A doctor should examine the baby for medical causes such as heart defects or stomach disorders. If no medical disorders are found, the baby may be failing to thrive due to a lack of touch and stimulation.
- Formula should be properly prepared according to package directions.
- Loving care should be provided consistently. This includes talking softly and gently or singing to the baby while performing daily care activities. Holding a baby closely is important.
- The baby should be allowed to sit up and observe other babies around him or her to provide stimulation.
- The baby should be allowed to play with safe and appropriate objects such as a colorful ball or rattle, for stimulation.
- Soft music can also be used to provide stimulation.
