Growth / Height
Growth is an important sign of a child’s overall health. A child’s height depends on many factors such as genetics, nutrition, hormones, and general well-being.
Children usually grow:
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Rapidly in the first few years of life
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Steadily during school years
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Quickly again during puberty
If a child is much shorter than others of the same age, or growing very slowly, it may need medical evaluation.
Growth problems can affect confidence and emotional health, but with proper guidance and treatment, many children can achieve healthy growth.
Symptoms of Growth / Height Problems
Signs that may suggest a growth concern include:
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Child is much shorter than classmates
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Very slow height increase over 1–2 years
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Clothes and shoe sizes not changing
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Delayed puberty
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Baby-like appearance compared to peers
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Weight gain without proper height growth
Regular growth monitoring using growth charts helps detect problems early.
Genetic Factors
If parents are short, the child may naturally be shorter (familial short stature).
Hormonal Imbalance
Lack of growth hormone or thyroid hormone can slow down height growth.
Poor Nutrition
Insufficient intake of proteins, vitamins, and minerals can affect growth.
Chronic Illness
Long-term health conditions such as kidney, heart, or intestinal diseases may slow growth.