Feeding Disorders in Children

For many children, feeding can be a challenge, with underlying difficulties turning mealtimes into a source of stress rather than nourishment. This article focuses on feeding issues in children, including their causes, symptoms, and treatment options, as well as the role of early intervention in addressing these challenges.

Contact Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates in Houston, Texas, today for more information on how to support your child’s feeding development.

What Are Feeding Issues in Children?

Feeding issues (also commonly referred to as pediatric feeding disorders) refer to significant challenges a child faces while eating, such as difficulty chewing, swallowing, or tolerating certain foods.

These problems often stem from medical, sensory, or developmental factors. Unlike picky eating—common among many children—feeding issues can impact a child’s growth, nutrition, and overall well-being.

Common Feeding Issues in Children

Feeding issues in children can vary in severity and origin. Some of the most common challenges include:

Infant Reflux: Gastroesophageal reflux in infants can cause discomfort during feeding, leading to refusal to eat or difficulty gaining weight. This condition often resolves with age but may require medical attention in more severe cases.
Pediatric Feeding Disorder: This term encompasses a range of difficulties, from problems with chewing and swallowing to extreme aversion to certain foods. Feeding disorders can affect a child’s ability to consume adequate nutrition and thrive.
Feeding Difficulties in Medical Conditions: Children with conditions like congenital heart disease, neurological disorders, or gastrointestinal problems may face feeding challenges that necessitate medical interventions, such as enteral feeds.
Sensory Sensitivities: Some children are highly sensitive to the texture, taste, or smell of food, leading to avoidant behaviors. These sensitivities can make it hard for them to try new foods, potentially limiting their diet.

What Causes Feeding Issues in Children?

The causes of feeding disorders in children can be complex and varied, often involving a combination of physical, emotional, and environmental factors. Some common causes include:

Medical Conditions: Children with conditions such as congenital heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, or respiratory problems may experience feeding and swallowing difficulties that lead to poor nutritional intake.
Oral Motor Skills Delays: Some children struggle with the coordination of muscles needed to chew and swallow, affecting their ability to eat properly.
Sensory Sensitivities: Children with heightened sensitivity to textures, tastes, or smells may develop avoidant restrictive food intake, making it challenging for them to try new foods.
Emotional and Psychological Factors: Anxiety, depression, or traumatic experiences related to eating can contribute to the development of feeding disorders in children.

Recognizing Symptoms of Feeding Issues in Children

Recognizing the signs of a pediatric feeding disorder early on is key to getting the right help. Some common symptoms include:

Refusing to eat certain foods or food groups
Persistent difficulty in feeding or swallowing
Noticeable weight loss or failure to gain weight
Emotional distress or anxiety surrounding mealtime
Excessive reliance on enteral feeds or other forms of supplemental nutrition
Significant avoidance of new foods or extremely picky eating
Physical symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain during meals

How Are Feeding Disorders in Children Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a pediatric feeding disorder requires a comprehensive evaluation. A pediatrician will typically begin by reviewing your child’s medical history, growth charts, and feeding patterns. They may also recommend a referral to a pediatric feeding specialist, who can assess your child’s oral motor skills, nutritional status, and any underlying medical conditions that could contribute to feeding difficulties.

In some cases, additional tests, such as imaging studies or evaluations by a speech-language pathologist, may be necessary to understand any feeding or swallowing challenges fully.

How Are Pediatric Feeding Disorders Treated?

Treatment for pediatric feeding disorders is highly individualized and may involve a combination of approaches, including:

Behavioral Therapy: For children with feeding difficulties related to anxiety or behavioral challenges, therapy can help them develop healthy eating habits.
Nutritional Support: In cases where a child’s nutritional status is compromised, a dietitian may work with the family to ensure proper caloric and nutrient intake, possibly with the help of enteral feeds or oral supplements.
Speech and Feeding Therapy: Children with oral motor skill delays or feeding and swallowing issues may benefit from therapy to improve their ability to eat and manage a variety of foods.
Family Support and Education: Parents play a crucial role in helping their children overcome feeding disorders. Family-based interventions often focus on improving mealtime environments and encouraging healthy, stress-free eating habits.

Empowering Your Child’s Healthy Future

If you suspect your child may be struggling with a feeding issue, early intervention is key. At Bootin and Savrick Pediatric Associates in Houston, TX, we specialize in diagnosing and treating pediatric feeding disorders as well as other childhood illnesses.

Schedule an appointment today to ensure your child receives the care and support they need to develop healthy eating habits and achieve their full potential.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Monica McGrann

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