Introduction

Why am I short? Am I normal?

• Your final height in life is mainly determined by your genes
• Final height can be measured by knowing your parental heights (your doctor will do this calculation)
• If your parents are short, you might also be short
• Height is also determined by your nutritional status
• If you have a chronic illness, height can be compromised e.g. blood disorders, kidney disease, poorly controlled asthma or heart disease

Are you just short or do you have some other medical conditions?

Certain medical conditions are associated with short stature. If you are a girl and have the following:

• Webbing of the neck – your neck appears short and wide
• Broad chest with the nipples spaced widely apart across the chest
• Multiple small dark birth marks
• Small hands and feet
• Learning difficulties at school
• Delayed sexual maturation:
  • No typical body changes of puberty
  • No periods even after 13 years age

Webbed neck one of the features of Turner’s syndrome

You could have Turner’s syndrome. This syndrome results from an abnormality in your chromosomes (genes). Please consult your doctor if there is any doubt.  

Is there any problem with just being short?

Being short will not stop you from being successful. Many great world leaders and entertainers are short too! However, some children who are shorter than their peers may:

• Experience bullying in school
• Feel sad and be in need of support

Do you need help?

If you are being teased or bullied, talk to your:

• Parents and other family members
• Teachers
• School counselor
• Doctor

Is there any support group?

Malaysian Turner’s Syndrome Society caters to people affected with Turner’s syndrome.