FAQ

A:We want our children to be healthy all the time.However children will have common childhood illnesses and most will run a fever at some point.Be  prepared. Touching your child’s forehead it not a reliable way to  detect fever. I recommend you purchase a digital thermometer.Practice using the thermometer so that when you NEED to check your child’s fever you are comfortable doing so.You may take your child’s temp under the arm.Do not worry about adding or subtracting anything. Most doctors consider a temp of 100.4 F to be a fever.

Newborns can get sick very quickly, so call the doctor immediately if your newborn has ANY fever at all.  Remember, fever is not a disease, but a sign your child is fighting an infection.The  body actually fights germs with a fever. Fever itself is RARELY  dangerous. The height of the fever does not always indicate how serious  the infection is.  In  children older than 2 months, you may use fever reducer for 24 hours.  If the fever is higher than 104, lasts longer than 24 hours or if your  child seems very ill, call the doctor.If you are worried just call the doctor.There is a Pediatrician on call 24 hours a day and we are willing to help.  

 A:At a well child visit we evaluate your child’s growth, development and health in a variety of ways.Your child’s medical history and family medical history is reviewed.Height, weight and head circumference measurements are compared to standard growth curves to monitor your child’s growth.Developmental milestones are checked to make sure that your child is learning as expected.Lab studies are done to check for anemia, lead exposure, kidney function, diabetes, and high cholesterol.Vision and hearing screening are done as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Needed immunizations are given.The purpose of the well-child exam is to screen for conditions that might not be obvious. 

 A:Trust your instincts.A parent knows their child better than anyone else.If you sense there is a problem, you are probably right.However, there are certain signs of illness you may look for. 

•  Fever lasting more than 24 hours.
•  Refuses to drink. 
•  Extreme fussiness or drowsiness.
•  Unusually pale or cool skin.
•  Wheezing or difficulty in breathing.
•  Unusual skin rash.
•  Continuous crying.
•  Repeated vomiting.
•  Jerking or twitching of arms, legs, and face.
•  Frequent or painful urination. 

If your child has any of these symptoms you should contact your doctor.  

A: Our office is open Monday through Friday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM. If you need to talk to a provider when the office is closed call the office number 423-744-8755 and one of our providers will be available to take your call.