Pediatric endocrinology is a specialized field of medicine that focuses on hormone-related disorders in children and patients in adolescence. It involves diagnosing, managing, and treating these disorders. Often, a child will be referred from a pediatrician to an endocrinologist if they need specialized treatment. Keep reading to learn more about this important topic.
How to See an Endocrinologist
Many parents are full of worry when they think there is something wrong with their little one. However, there is a process to seeing a pediatric endocrinologist. Often, a child will see their pediatrician first. According to Zippia, there are over 10,037 pediatricians nationwide, making it easy to find one if you need one. Then, if the pediatrician is concerned or thinks your child needs further evaluation, they’ll be referred to a specialist.
Endocrine Disorders in Children
Endocrine specialists monitor various conditions. Common conditions that may result in a child seeing these specialists include but are not limited to, Addison’s disease, thyroid disorders, cystic fibrosis, growth hormone deficiency, and more. These specialists may also monitor puberty and growth to ensure children are growing properly and address any issues, such as the early onset of puberty.
Diagnostic Testing
Diagnosing a child with a disorder of the endocrine system requires specialized testing. A pediatric endocrinologist can order those diagnostic tests. They have the specialized knowledge necessary to interpret the results and make an accurate diagnosis. After that, they’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan for your little one.
Education Regarding Conditions
A pediatric endocrinologist is full of knowledge about conditions affecting this body system, so they can help educate both parents and patients on specific conditions. They understand the unique challenges that patients and families will face moving forward and can offer education regarding treatment options, and how to cope, and they can make referrals to other professionals as necessary.
Long-Term Management
Pediatric endocrinologists see children up until they are adults. This ensures a continuum of care instead of seeing multiple doctors with different styles and opinions. It guarantees that families will feel comfortable heading to appointments and that children will grow up with a doctor they can trust to help them manage their condition.
Specialists often work as part of a team to ensure that children have everything they need, including access to doctors and specialists. For more information, contact our team at The Endocrine Co today. We would love to provide the care your child needs!