Pediatric feeding disorder (PFD)

What are the signs and symptoms of a pediatric feeding disorder (PFD)?

• Refusing to eat or drink 

• Difficulty chewing 

• Trouble with swallowing  

• Arching back during feeding 

• Coughing or gagging during meals 

• Frequent spitting up or vomiting  

• Irritable or crying during mealtimes 

• Decreased responsiveness during mealtimes 

• Loss of food and liquid by mouth when eating or drinking 

• Difficulty breathing while eating or drinking 

• Slow weight gain 

 Signs and symptoms of PFD vary by age. 

How is pediatric feeding disorder diagnosed (PFD)? 

PFD is best diagnosed by a team of pediatric doctors and providers who have special training in feeding disorders. Our pediatric feeding disorder specialists will work together to assess your child’s condition and pinpoint what’s causing their feeding problems. Our evaluation might include some or all the following: 

• Review of your child’s medical history 

• Assessment of their diet and eating habits 

• Evaluation of oral motor skills, chewing and swallowing 

• Pediatric GI exam to check for GI disorders, like acid reflux 

• Blood work to rule out other medical conditions 

What causes pediatric feeding disorder (PFD)?

Pediatric feeding disorder can be caused by: 

• Prematurity 

• A medical condition, like GERD or food allergies 

• Poor oral motor skills or swallowing disorder (dysphagia)  

• Chronic health problems, like ear infections or respiratory infections 

• A condition present at birth, like cleft lip or cleft palate 

• Hypersensitivity to taste, smell and texture 

• Dental problems 

How is pediatric feeding disorder treated (PFD)? 

The main goal of PFD treatment is to help children get good enough nutrition and hydration to support their growth and development. This usually involves a combination of different techniques to support safe swallowing and eating. Our team will build a custom treatment plan based on your child’s age and cause of their feeding problem. Treatment may include one or more of the following: 

• Adjusting your child’s posture or position during feeding 

• Stimulation of the lips, tongue or jaw with a pacifier (oral-motor stimulation) 

• Feeding strategies, like alternating bites of food and sips of liquid during mealtime 

• Working with a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) 

 With proper care, pediatric feeding disorder can be well managed and improved.