Children have weak immune systems until they are at the age of 7-8 years. This is because their immune system is usually not very well-developed until they hit this age. Therefore, they require impeccable healthcare. As a parent, you need to know the most common illnesses among kids and how to deal with them. You also need to know how to choose the best pediatricians and how to prepare your child if need be. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to choose the best pediatrician for your children.
Common Childhood Illnesses
These are some of the illnesses you will see in your kid from time to time.
1. Sore Throat
A sore throat is quite painful. However, if it is as a result of a virus, your child doesn’t need any antibiotics. About seven to ten days are enough for it to disappear. However, if the sore throat is a result of a streptococcal infection, the pediatrician will recommend some antibiotics. They can only be sure it is a strep throat after some lab tests. The good news is, strep throat is not as likely unless other siblings have it.
2. Bronchiolitis
Newborn care calls for some vigilance. Be on the lookout for bronchiolitis in your infant, especially in the cold and flu season. The pediatrician can detect some wheezing in the child’s breathing. In most cases, it is caused by a virus. Therefore, you won’t need any antibiotics. All you need to do is ensure your child is comfortable and well hydrated. However, children born prematurely may need more assistance.
3. Common Cold
Children are way more susceptible to cold than adults under the same conditions. They might even catch a cold up to eight times a year. The risk goes up if the child is in childcare. Some of the signs include a runny nose and coughing. Although in most cases you don’t need antibiotics, you might need them in case of a sinus infection. The pediatrician will guide you through.
How To Choose the Best Pediatrician
Choosing the best pediatrician for all your newborn can be daunting. Here are tips to ensure that you leave nothing to chance when it comes to your child’s health.
1. Carry Out Some Research
You can prepare a long list of potential pediatricians, then narrow down until you find the best. To build the list, you can get recommendations from your family or friends. Put into consideration the clinic’s location, working hours, and after-hours care. You might need to find out about their insurance policy.
2. Observe the Doctor Around Your Child
The best pediatricians have to be good around kids. To be sure of that, observe how your child interacts with the doctor during the first few visits. Your kid will see the pediatrician quite several times. You have to ensure they are a perfect fit.
3. Check Their Credentials
Ensure that all relevant authorities have certified your doctor of choice. Additionally, check how long they have been in the kids’ care practice. Has the doctor worked in various departments such as the emergency department? Working in a number of different environments gives them an edge in practice.
You can avoid all the hassle of searching for the best pediatricians by visiting Pediatrix which has the best pediatricians in Phoenix. Visit today for the best kids’ care.
