Question:

Is there any reason to worry about a child's potbelly?

Answer:

It is generally normal for toddlers to have potbellies. By the time children reach school age, the potbelly usually disappears and their bodies seem more proportionate.

The belly should feel soft and not tender. There is nothing to worry about unless a potbelly is accompanied by other symptoms (such as abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, or short stature), it suddenly appears swollen, or it feels hard or firm.

See also: Swollen belly

Alternative Names

Children and potbellies

Update Date: 1/24/2012

Reviewed by: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

Images

Potbellies

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