Dwarfism Symptoms

Dwarfism: Introduction

Dwarfism is when one grows with a short stature. It is a medical condition rather than a disease. This condition is usually diagnosed when a child does not develop at the normal rate and is smaller in size compared to other children of similar age.

Medically, dwarfism is defined as an adult with a height of four feet ten inches or less. Such people develop normal sized trunk but have very short upper extremities.

What are the Dwarfism Symptoms?

Those with restricted growth may possibly have other symptoms associated with the underlying medical condition that has caused their short stature.

Here, we outline dwarfism symptoms common in people with proportionate and disproportionate short stature.

Proportionate Short Stature

• Individuals with proportionate short stature have proportionate body parts but their rate of growth is very slow.
• It is said to be a result of growth hormone deficiency.

Disproportionate Short Stature

Those who have disproportionate short stature may display one or the other form of below mentioned signs and symptoms for dwarfism;

• Curving of the spine to one side (scoliosis).
• Upper portion of the spine has an outward curve (kyphosis).
• Dwarfism signs include bow shaped legs.
• An oversized head, compared to the other parts of the body, may create difficulty in maintaining balance.
• Problems of the back may result in pressure on the spinal cord and nerves that leave the spine. This may cause numbness and pain of the hips, legs and knees. Moving around can also become difficult.
• Among signs of dwarfism, osteoarthritis specifically affects the knee joints and hip. Moving around becomes painfully difficult if joints other than these are affected.
• A sleeping disorder such as sleep apnea breathing issues at night and sleepiness during daytime.
• Children who are young may face difficulties in hearing, speech and have problems with language.

In some conditions, a weakness occurs in the joints that are located between bones in the neck. This condition is best identified and treated as early as possible.