As with adults, weight loss in children occurs when they do not consume enough calories for their needs, or are using more calories than normal for a variety of reasons, including underlying illness. Possible medical causes for weight loss can range from mouth sores to rare but serious childhood cancers; weight loss can also signify an eating disorder. Unless you are sure that your child's weight loss is the result of a reducing diet prescribed and supervised by his physician, take her to the doctor promptly.
Diabetes
Drastic weight loss in your child can be a sign of diabetes. The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control -- reporting that as of 2011 more than 13,000 young people are diagnosed with diabetes every year -- characterizes diabetes in children and teens as an already-serious problem that is steadily increasing. With type 1 diabetes -- formerly known as juvenile diabetes -- the body produces insufficient insulin, while type 2 diabetes occurs when the body develops a resistance to insulin. Along with weight loss, symptoms include unusual thirst, increased urination, stomach pains, headache, extreme hunger and blurred vision. If your child has symptoms of diabetes, take him to the doctor promptly. Diabetes is treated with insulin, dispensed in the form of injections or an adjustable pump, which dispenses specific amounts of insulin. You will need to monitor your child's blood sugar levels, and ensure that he eats less sugar and fats and more fresh fruits, vegetables and high-fiber foods. Your child's doctor can help suggest an exercise program.
Celiac Disease
Sudden and drastic weight loss in children can also indicate celiac disease, a digestive disorder triggered by your child's consuming gluten, found in breads, pasta, and any product containing wheat, barley or rye. This leads to an inability to absorb nutrients, causing drastic weight loss, vitamin deficiencies and stunted growth. In some cases, problems absorbing calcium and vitamin D lead to a condition called osteomalacia -- or rickets -- in which bones soften and become misshapen. Common symptoms of celiac disease -- also called sprue -- include intermittent diarrhea, abdominal pain and bloating. Stools may be unusually foul-smelling, grayish, and oily. There is no cure for celiac disease; it is managed by avoiding gluten. A dietitian can help you plan gluten-free meals for your child. If your child has symptoms of celiac disease, take her to the doctor.
Pediatric GERD
Weight loss in very young children can be a sign of Pediatric GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, in which digestive fluids splash back up into the esophagus from the stomach. Pediatric GERD is common during the first year of life, and can persist into early childhood. If your toddler or baby has GERD, he may spit up or vomit often, refuse food and frequently emit wet-sounding hiccups and burps. He also might have recurring sore throats and sinus infections. Pediatric GERD is diagnosed by physical exam, barium X-ray or endoscopic examination, and is treated with antacids, acid suppressors, and acid blockers. Raising the head of the bed or crib may help ease symptoms. If your child shows signs of GERD, he should be taken to his pediatrician.
Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis
Recurrent aphthous stomatitis is a condition in which painful aphthous ulcers -- commonly called canker sores -- occur frequently in your child's mouth. Although the sores are benign and non-contagious, they can be extremely painful, and make eating diffcult. Experts aren't sure what causes canker sores, but believe they may be triggered by stress, food allergies, vitamin deficiencies or trauma, such as the child biting the inside of her cheek or having poorly-fitting dental appliances. The sores -- which feature white or yellow centers and red borders -- can appear under the tongue, inside the cheek or on the gums. If your child gets frequent canker sores, or if a canker sore is very large or slow to heal, a visit to the doctor is in order. Her doctor may prescribe a topical medicine to ease pain and speed healing.
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