MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Potbellies and toddlers

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Potbellies and toddlers

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative Names	Information

Illustrations

Potbellies

Alternative Names Return to top

Children and potbellies

Information Return to top

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 a child reaches 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), or if it appears suddenly swollen. Medical conditions causing an enlarged liver or spleen can be serious and must be ruled out by your doctor.

See also: Swollen belly

Update Date: 2/14/2007

Updated by: Leisha M. Andersen, M.D., Private Practice specializing in Pediatrics, Denver, CO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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