When is child health consultation recommended for failure to thrive?

Failure to thrive, also called faltering growth, describes slower-than-expected weight gain or growth. It is a pattern that needs context, not a conclusion about parenting or a single measurement. A clinician reviews the child's growth record, feeding routine, appetite, stools, sleep, development, and general health. Causes can include feeding difficulties, inadequate intake, problems absorbing nutrients, ongoing illness, or increased nutritional needs.

Arrange a routine child health consultation if growth has crossed down through growth-chart lines, clothes are not being outgrown, meals are consistently stressful, or the child tires during feeds. Bring growth records and a short food and drink diary. Note vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, coughing with feeds, food avoidance, and changes in energy. Continue offering suitable meals and fluids without force-feeding; do not start supplements or restrictive diets without advice.

Seek urgent medical help if the child is unusually sleepy, difficult to wake, breathing hard, repeatedly vomiting, unable to keep fluids down, or passing much less urine. Rapid worsening, signs of dehydration such as a dry mouth and few wet nappies, or a child who appears seriously unwell should not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask what the growth pattern shows, whether feeding support or tests are needed, how to increase energy intake safely, and when weight and development should be reviewed again.