Child development
What is child development?
Child development is the set of different phases of physical, psychological and social growth that occur from birth until reaching adulthood. In some cases, children may experiences, which may require treatment.
What are the symptoms of child developmental problems?
These problems are basically characterised by a delay in development, when the child does not have the psychological and social skills they should have according to their age, and/or when the weight and height is below the average of other children of the same sex and age. The main symptoms are:
- Weight, height or head size below normal growth curves
- Weight 20% below the ideal weight
- Delayed or stunted growth
- A delay in physical, mental and social skills
Other symptoms that can occur in a child with developmental problems can be excessive crying, constipation, lethargy (excessive drowsiness) or irritability.
What are the causes of child developmental problems?
The causes may be related to health problems or external factors. In the first case, the main causes are:
- Organ problems
- Genetic problems such as Down's syndrome
- Injury to the brain or central nervous system
- Hormonal problems
- Anaemia
- Chronic infections
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Problems in pregnancy or low birth weight
- Metabolic problems
Regarding external factors, the main ones are:
- Poverty
- Relationship problems between the child and the caregiver
- Exposure to parasites, toxins or infections
- Lack of knowledge of the parents about the food needs of the child
- Bad eating habits
However, many times the cause cannot be detected.
What is the treatment for child developmental problems?
The treatment varies depending on the cause of the child's developmental problem. If it is due to an illness, the appropriate treatment will be carried out.
Alternatively, if it is due to nutritional problems, this can be addressed by evaluating the child’s diet and preparing an adequate nutrition plan.
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Dr Margarita Burmester
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Bright Futures
Bright Futures
Chiswick Medical Centre, Bond House, 347-353 Chiswick High Road, London. W4 4HS
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Top Doctors
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Bright Futures
Chiswick Medical Centre, Bond House, 347-353 Chiswick High Road, London. W4 4HS, West LondonExpert in:
- Children's primary care
- Child development
- Preventive paediatrics
- Health check up
- Child health surveillance