What should you know about infant failure to thrive symptoms?

An infant may take much longer to feed, tire during feeds, vomit often, refuse feeds, or seem less alert than usual. Clothes or nappies may stop fitting as expected, and growth measurements may not follow the baby's previous pattern. These signs can have many explanations, including feeding technique, difficulty swallowing, reflux, infection, or a medical condition. One small feed or one measurement does not establish the cause; the trend and the baby's examination matter.

Keep a brief record of feeds, vomiting, stools, wet nappies, sleepiness, and any breathing difficulty. Bring the baby's feeding history and growth records to a Child Health Consultation. Continue breast milk or prescribed formula as advised, and do not dilute formula or add supplements without guidance. A clinician may observe a feed, assess hydration, examine the baby, and review growth over time.

Seek urgent help if the infant is difficult to wake, has breathing trouble, cannot keep feeds down, has markedly fewer wet nappies, appears dehydrated, or refuses several feeds. Arrange prompt assessment for ongoing vomiting, blood in stools, repeated choking during feeds, or a clear drop in energy. Babies can become unwell quickly when intake is poor.

Ask whether the growth pattern has changed, whether a feeding observation is needed, and how much milk is appropriate for your baby's age and situation. Ask which symptoms require same-day care and when the next weight and development review should occur.