Treating Failure to Thrive

Failure to thrive, also called faltering growth, describes slower-than-expected weight gain or growth in a child. It is a finding rather than a single disease. Feeding difficulties, trouble swallowing, persistent vomiting, diarrhoea, infection, allergies, breathing problems, or challenges affecting appetite can all contribute. Emotional and practical pressures around meals may also matter.

A clinician compares measurements with the child’s earlier pattern and considers development, energy, hydration, and the whole family situation. One measurement alone does not explain the cause.

Arrange a child health consultation so feeding can be observed and concerns can be discussed without blame. Keep a brief record of foods or milk offered, approximate intake, vomiting or stool changes, and your child’s energy. Offer calm, regular meals and snacks suited to the child’s age, and avoid force-feeding. A clinician may involve a dietitian, feeding specialist, or other team member and may suggest tests when the history or examination points to a medical cause.

Seek prompt medical help if a child is unusually sleepy, has breathing difficulty, repeated vomiting, signs of dehydration such as very few wet nappies, blood in vomit or stool, or a sudden decline in feeding. Contact a clinician when weight gain is slowing, meals cause distress, swallowing is difficult, or developmental progress changes. A [Child Health Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/child-health-consultation/) can help organise assessment.

Ask which growth pattern is concerning, whether feeding or swallowing needs specialist review, what to record at home, and how soon progress should be reassessed.