Feeding Problems in West Jordan and Serving South Jordan & Riverton, UT
As a parent, if your child is struggling to eat or isn't obtaining all the nutrients necessary, it can cause a lot of worry, especially as those formative years are such an important part of growth and development. However, our practitioners at Southwest Children's Clinic, serving West Jordan, South Jordan, & Riverton, UT, can diagnose and treat feeding problems or eating issues.
Examples of Feeding Problems
An aversion to certain tastes, colors, or textures of food can cause your child to miss out on getting all the nutrients needed, especially if you've only found a handful of foods your little one will eat. Besides worrying about their nutrition and health, you may also find meal times stressful, as you're unsure what to make them eat that everybody else in the family wants.
Sometimes, it's a short phase, such as during teething; however, it can be a lingering problem when you have to worry about your little one developing a vitamin or mineral deficiency. Your child's eating habits could mean more than being a picky eater. They could be a sign of autism or ADHD.
Picky eating habits aren't the only feeding problems we can address at our clinic. The concern your child may have could be with swallowing. They may choke frequently, or you could notice that regularly, they're gagging and coughing when they eat.
These are merely examples of eating problems your kid could have.
Treatment Options for Feeding Problems
The treatment your little one will receive depends upon their specific eating issues, including the cause and severity. For instance, if you're having trouble feeding your child anything outside of noodles and a few other foods, for example, we may recommend you give them a supplement. If your child has other concerns, we may recommend your little one undergo an assessment for autism or ADHD.
Therapy, including swallowing exercises and/or mouth strengthening, may be recommended to help with swallowing concerns. Sometimes, the treatment for this issue may include changing your child's diet. A prime example: they may need pureed foods or thickened liquids. Medications or surgery could also be necessary for certain issues, particularly in the more serious cases.
The medical team at Southwest Children's Clinic, serving West Jordan, South Jordan, & Riverton, UT, can assist if your child has a feeding problem, whether it's with eating a variety of foods, swallowing, or an unhealthy relationship with food. Treatments vary and are tailored to your little one's situation.