4 Health Issues That Are Best Addressed By A Pediatrician

You should always know the difference between a family practitioner and a pediatrician. While family practitioners treat adults above 18 years, pediatricians focus on teens, children, infants, and young adults. If you want high-quality medical care for your child, it's advisable to see a pediatrician.

Here are four conditions that a pediatric doctor can treat:

1. All Types of Vaccines

Your child is supposed to receive a wide range of vaccines before they turn 18 years. As identified by healthpartners.com, 16 vaccines are recommended to all children. These include chickenpox vaccine, hepatitis A vaccine, and meningococcal vaccine, among others.

If you are concerned about the safety and effects of a vaccine, make sure a pediatrician administers it. Besides administering the vaccine, they will tell you the expected adverse effects and how to manage them.

2. Developmental Disorders

If you notice a developmental disability in your child, promptly look for pediatric services. As noted in a report by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, some developmental disorders, such as cerebral palsy, autism, language disorders, and intellectual disability, among others, are best handled by pediatricians.

The pediatric doctor will assess the severity of the problem. If it is beyond their expertise, they may refer you to a pediatric specialist for further evaluation. Specialists have unique expertise in various childhood illnesses, including congenital disabilities.

3. Delayed Growth

If you note abnormally slow weight and height gains in your child, you should seek pediatrician services. Although the delayed growth could be normal, it's good to see a specialist for further examination.

Typically, pediatricians provide comprehensive and valuable nutritional advice if your child is experiencing physical delays. They will give you essential tips about giving your child the right nutrition for proper growth.

4. Prolonged Conditions

Some childhood illnesses, such as common colds, diarrhea, fever, and chest congestion, are normal. The diseases will usually come and go after basic treatment. However, you should consult a pediatrician if these conditions persist.

Take an example of fever. Almost all children experience it at some point. Fever is an indication that your child's body is fighting an infection. If they have a fever of over 104 degrees Fahrenheit for a prolonged period, you should take them to a doctor who is more knowledgeable about childhood fever, most probably a pediatrician.

Not all childhood illnesses can be handled by a family practitioner. Some of them need a pediatrician. Pediatric doctors will treat your child and offer advice to help foster a healthy lifestyle for your young one.