New parenthood is full of uncertainty. When you’re a first-time parent, it can be difficult to understand your child’s symptoms. Children are prone to sickness and it is important to consult a pediatrician. Unlike a family practitioner who typically treats adults over the age of 18, pediatricians generally focus on the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of infants, children, teens, and young adults until the age of 18.

Vaccines

Vaccines are recommended for children by pediatrics at a variety of points as they age from birth to 18 years. Though the recommendations often change as new vaccines are developed, they may include:

• Chickenpox (varicella) vaccine
• Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis vaccine (DTaP)
• Hepatitis A vaccine (HepA)
• Hepatitis B vaccine (HepB)
• Hib vaccine (Haemophilus Influenza Type B)
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine
• Influenza vaccine
• Measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR)
• Meningococcal vaccines
• Pneumococcal vaccine (PCV)
• Polio vaccine (IPV)
• Rotavirus vaccine
• Early development of your child

One reason it’s important to take your child to a pediatician is to monitor his developmental progress or milestones. At each visit, your child will be weighed and measured to evaluate his growth in weight, height, and body mass index (BMI). The doctor will show you how this compares to other kids of the same age and gender so you can gauge how your child is progressing.

Fever

Almost all children will have a fever at some point, but how do you know when it’s time to have your child checked out? Generally, the younger your child, the sooner you should take him to the doctor.

Infections

Young children have on average 6 to 8 colds a year, and often with them come ear infections. Common signs and symptoms include ear pain, tugging or pulling at the ear, trouble sleeping, crying or acting more irritable than usual, and fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Symptoms generally improve in the first couple of days and often clear up on their own within one to two weeks

Behavioural changes

Most parents run into some type of behavioral problem with their children, whether it be learning difficulties, discipline issues, or bedwetting. Your pediatician can offer guidance in these areas, as well. But there may be times your doctor will want to refer you to a developmental-behavioral pediatician.

If you are concerned about your child’s well being and need medical assistance, Mahabir Doctor’s Hub has some of the best pediatric care in Siliguri which can cater to your needs. You can reach out to Mahabir Doctor’s Hub at +91 9933868686 or 035 3252 5600 for booking an appointment with a pediatrician today.