Specialty Services
ADHD
Asthma
Anxiety/ Depression
Development Delay
Autism
Special Needs
Nutrition
Breastfeeding/ Infant Nutrition
What is ADHD? What are some common symptoms of ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is one of the most common mental disorders affecting children and can affect several areas in a child’s personality and performance and typically make academics much tougher than they should be. Symptoms of ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD can lead to poor self-esteem and social function in children when not appropriately treated. Many children may have difficulties sitting still, waiting their turn and paying attention, which in turn lead them to being fidgety, and acting impulsively. Usually, children show a combination of these symptoms. These symptoms lead to significant suffering and cause disruptions at home, at school or work, and in relationships. Students whose ADHD impairs their learning may qualify for special education under the IEP (Individual Education Plan) or Section 504 plan (for children who do not require special education).
It is extremely important that children with concerns of ADHD be evaluated early on so that they can get the necessary care they need to perform their best in school and at home. Treatment options may include medications and cognitive behavioral training depending on your child’s assessment.
What is Asthma and how does it affect children? What are some common symptoms of asthma?
In childhood asthma, lungs and airways get easily inflamed when exposed to certain triggers, such as viral infection or allergies. Childhood asthma is a leading cause of emergency department visits, hospitalization and missed school days. Some symptoms include making a whistling or wheezing sound when breathing out, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and frequent coughing that worsens with a viral infection, cold air, and at night.
It is important to see your Pediatrician if you have a persistent cough or an audible wheezing sound so that proper evaluation, diagnosis and treatment is initiated for your child. Children with asthma are usually followed every 3-6 months to ensure proper management of symptoms and to make sure the medications given are adequate to keep the asthma in check.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? What are some common symptoms of ASD?
Autism is a developmental condition that involves challenges with social communication, restricted interest, and repetitive behavior. While autism is considered a lifelong disorder, the degree of impairment in functioning because of these challenges varies between individuals with autism. Early signs of Autism can be noticed by parents or Pediatricians before the child reaches one year of age, however symptoms become more consistent by the time the child is 2 or 3 years.
The first step is seeking an evaluation. Most parents start by getting the child seen by a Pediatrician, who closely monitors developmental milestones at each well-visit. It is very important that children with Autism or a developmental delay get diagnosed early on so that necessary behavioral therapies are started at the earliest time possible to improve the child’s functioning.
What are some common symptoms of depression/anxiety in children? Why is mental health screening important in children?
It is not uncommon for children to have their own fears and worries, no matter what age they are. However, when these fears and worries become so persistent that they interfere in daily activities of the child, there is a potential for this to lead to anxiety and depression. Such emotions may develop when children experience trauma or stress, when they are maltreated, when they are bullied or rejected by other children, or even sometimes when their own parents have anxiety or depression.
In addition to getting the right treatment to treat your child, leading a healthy lifestyle can play a role in managing symptoms of depression and anxiety. It is very important that children with concerns of anxiety and depression see their Pediatrician on time so that they can receive the right care.