Most childhood sicknesses, bumps, and bruises will go away on their own, especially if your child is in good health. However, in more serious cases, you will want to take your child to a pediatric doctor to make sure they recover quickly and completely. In addition, there are routine treatments your child needs to be able to resist certain diseases and grow up healthy and happy.
The scenarios that follow require professional treatment from a pediatric doctor to ensure the best chances for your child.
Intense or Persistent Symptoms
Normally, a cold will go away on its own after a few days. If it doesn’t, it might indicate a more serious illness. If you notice symptoms or fever going on for more than a week, it’s probably time to see a pediatrician. Intense symptoms can also be a problem, such as continuous vomiting, diarrhea, or a fever over 105°F (100.4°F for infants).
Other symptoms to be aware of include persistent rash, continuous coughing or wheezing, or constant aches and pains. These can be a sign of serious infections that should be dealt with promptly.
Minor Injuries
A scrape or bruise usually warrants only a bandage and some ointment. If an accident results in a broken bone or concussion, or if it might need stitches, take your child to a doctor. You may need to visit an emergency room first, but after that, your pediatrician can assist with follow-up treatment. This can help your child significantly since pediatricians are specifically trained for treating children.
Routine Visits
Even when nothing is wrong, routine visits are still important. These should be done regularly based on your child’s age, normally once per year after age 5. Prior to that, visit sought to be more frequent. These well-child visits are essential for helping your son or daughter maintain good health and develop properly as time goes on.
Chronic Conditions
Asthma, allergies, and gastroesophageal reflux disease can all afflict children from an early age. Consistent specialized treatment is often necessary to alleviate these conditions, especially when variables that cause these types of reactions—such as air particle levels with asthma—cannot be controlled. Your pediatrician will know what to do in each circumstance and will recommend a treatment plan that fits your child’s specific needs.
Behavioral Issues
Behavioral disorders often require certain treatments. ADHD, for instance, will necessitate certain interventions to help your child concentrate on important tasks. Even if no medication is necessary, consulting with your pediatric doctor can provide you with the expert insight you and your child need to navigate life with a behavioral disorder. They can provide coping strategies and consultation services that will allow your child to succeed.
Choosing a Pediatrician
Choosing the right pediatrician is a mix of personal preference and assessing professional expertise. Your child’s doctor should be well versed in the field of pediatric medicine, but they should also treat you and your child with kindness and respect. Visits to the doctor should be a positive experience, so do your research carefully before choosing a pediatric doctor in Littleton for your family.