Overview
Malnutrition and malabsorption can occur if a child is not having enough, or the right type, of nutrients, which can lead to a reduced rate of growth and weight. In addition, certain conditions such as Crohn’s disease can impact whether they are able to absorb the nutrients from the food they are eating.
Cause
Malnutrition directly affects the release of growth hormones, lowering the amount in the body. Unfortunately, children that are malnourished will have reduced growth. In Crohn’s disease, the level of growth failure is directly related to the severity of the disease.
Symptoms
Signs of a growth condition due to malnutrition or malabsorption is reduced growth or short stature. The symptoms will range depending on the cause of the malnutrition and or malabsorption.
Diagnosis
The cause of the malnutrition and or malabsorption will influence how the growth condition is diagnosed. For example, one to two thirds or more of children with Crohn’s disease have impaired growth at diagnosis. In some children, the growth issues come before the clinical symptoms of bowel disease by a few years. Which is why it is vital to regularly measure the growth of your child.
Calculate your child’s growth
It is important to keep track of your child’s growth in order to identify if there is a problem early on. We recommend measuring your child every 6 months, which is now easier, with our simple to use growth calculator.
Get prepared for talking to your doctor
If you are concerned about your child’s growth, don’t hesitate to speak with an HCP. They will be able to complete some measurements and investigate further if needed, potentially referring you on to a specialist. Here we can help you plan for both conversations.
