As moms of young children, most of us have gotten to know our pediatricians on a first-name basis. From the common cold with a newborn to a broken bone as a toddler, the pediatrician becomes our go-to source for information as we navigate the crazy world of parenting. After sitting down with a well-respected pediatrician, here is a list of things that your pediatrician wishes you knew for your next visit.
A Fever is Your Friend!
- A fever is the body’s way of fighting an infection. Never let the number of the fever alone frighten you. Higher temperatures MAY mean your child has a more serious bacterial infection, but the most common type of illness will be viral, and can only be healed with time.
- When younger, pre-verbal children are sick, how they are acting and behaving is often the most important sign of what is going on. A pediatrician is always interested in hearing careful observations of the child’s activity. That is often more important than how high the temperature has reached on the thermometer.
- Pediatricians are much less concerned with a child who has a 105 temperature and is running around the exam room than a child who has a temperature of 100 and is very lethargic.
“Quick Fixes” Unfortunately Do Not Exist
- Most pediatric illnesses are viral and get better with time. Pediatricians are happy to see kids who are sick, but get frustrated when parents demand a “quick fix” when, in reality, there isn’t one.
- We should use antibiotics very, very judiciously. They need to work when they are indicated, and if given too liberally, they will not work as effectively when your child does in fact have a bacterial infection.
Follow Your Mommy Gut
- If you, as a parent, have a nagging concern that something might be wrong, bring it up! Don’t feel that it’s not important enough, or that it is too minor of an issue. Better to be safe than sorry.
- A well-visit is a great time to discuss questions about your child’s health, and pediatricians love when parents come prepared with a list. If your concern is big enough that you want to spend 15-20 minutes on a topic, please consider scheduling a follow-up visit to deal with that issue more in-depth.
Wives Tale Exposed
- “Don’t give milk to a child who has a cold – it will worsen the congestion.” If your child has a cold and wants milk (breastmilk, formula or regular milk for an older child), by all means let them have it! Milk has more protein than juice or water and will help them heal faster.
A special “Thank You” to the contributing Pediatrician for this article, Meg Kawan, MD, FAAP, IBCLC.
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