advocaremilestonepediatrics

3 Throat Disorders That Commonly Affect Children

Tue, 25 Aug 2020 07:43:31 GMT

A problem with the throat can make it painful to eat, drink, and swallow. If your child is complaining of pain in the throat, you should take them to the doctor, but you may also want to do your own research first.

If your child has pain in their throat, many things could be the cause, but it's likely to be one of these three very common issues. Keep reading to learn what to expect at the doctor.

1. Sore Throat

A sore throat can be accompanied by other symptoms including swollen glands in the neck and a hoarse voice. If your child has a sore throat, it might be caused by a viral infection, such as a cold, croup, or the flu.

Other causes of a sore throat include:

Allergies
Dry indoor air
Irritants in the air
Muscle strain
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Once a pediatrician has determined the exact cause of your child's sore throat, they can treat your child accordingly. In most cases, a sore throat will go away on its own. If, however, your child complains of a sore throat and has trouble breathing or swallowing, your child should get immediate medical care.

2. Tonsillitis

The lymph nodes on the side and back of the throat are called tonsils. Tonsillitis occurs when the tonsils become infected. Besides a very sore throat, other symptoms of tonsillitis include:

Bad breath
Fever
Chills
Earaches
Headaches
Stiff neck
Neck and jaw tenderness

The tonsils may also appear red and swollen or they might have white or yellow spots. In young children, tonsillitis can cause a decrease in appetite and excessive drooling. The three types of tonsillitis include acute, chronic, and recurrent.

Acute tonsillitis can either be viral or bacterial. If the acute tonsillitis is bacterial, a pediatrician can prescribe antibiotics. If your child has chronic or recurrent tonsillitis, a pediatrician might recommend a tonsillectomy, which involves having their tonsils removed.

3. Strep Throat

Strep throat is a bacterial infection. Strep bacteria causes nearly one-third of all sore throats. The first symptoms for children with strep throat include a sore throat, fever, painful neck glands, and swollen tonsils. Because the symptoms are similar, you may think your child has tonsillitis. However, after three days, your child might also get the following symptoms:

Red and white patches in the throat
Headache
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Rash
Trouble swallowing

Your child will also feel ill in general. Strep throat is very contagious. To minimize the risk of infecting others, you should take your child to the pediatrician right away.

The pediatrician will do a rapid strep test and will know the test results within about 5 minutes. If the strep test is positive, the pediatrician will prescribe antibiotics for your child. Left untreated, strep throat could cause complications, such as rheumatic fever, scarlet fever, and kidney problems.

If the strep test is negative, the pediatrician will send the sample of fluids from the back of the throat to a lab for a throat culture. A throat culture will help determine the cause of your child's sore throat.

No matter what the reason for your child's sore throat, you should ensure they drink plenty of liquids. This will help prevent dehydration. You can also give your child hot tea and warm soups, which will help soothe throat pain. Your child should avoid acidic liquids, such as orange juice and lemonade, which can irritate a sore throat.

If your child complains of a sore throat, schedule an appointment with a pediatrician at Advocare Lerch & Amato Pediatrics. For your convenience, we offer after hours appointments in the evenings and on Saturdays.

4 Common Lung Complications Associated With Premature Birth

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 07:50:00 GMT

Babies take time to develop, but many factors can cause a baby to be born prematurely. When this happens, they may not be fully equipped to survive the outside world without assistance. In particular, premature lungs can make it impossible or hard for your baby to breathe on their own. If you would like to know more about lung complications associated with premature births, keep reading.

1. Respiratory Distress Syndrome

Respiratory distress syndrome is a complication that requires premature babies to need extra oxygen and help breathing because they are not capable of doing it properly on their own yet. The reason respiratory distress syndrome makes it hard for your baby to breathe is because there isn't enough surfactant in the lungs.

Surfactant is a naturally-forming liquid that allows lungs to continually take in and release air without the alveoli collapsing after each breath. Babies born before 37 weeks may not have enough surfactant to keep the lungs open after each breath. As a result, the alveoli collapse, reducing the amount of oxygen your baby breaths and increasing the amount of carbon dioxide in their system.

2. Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

If your baby develops respiratory distress syndrome, and needs help to breathe, the device used to help your baby breathe can also cause complications. In particular, it causes swelling and scaring in the lungs. The damage usually occurs because of high oxygen levels and the pressure from the oxygen being pumped into your baby's lungs.

This can lead to long-term breathing complications. In fact, this type of lung disease is about just as common as asthma and cystic fibrosis in children. These children may also be more likely to get respiratory infections in the future, such as the flu. Another complication that may arise because of bronchopulmonary dysplasia is fluid buildup in the lungs, which reduces how much air can also fit in the airways.

3. Pneumonia

Because premature babies don't always have fully formed lungs, and many other complications can lead to fluid in the lungs, pneumonia is common in premature babies. Pneumonia is an infection in the lung. So as long as your baby has the antibodies to fight the infection, they should be fine. However, if your baby is premature, they may not have acquired your antibodies yet, making their body too weak to fight the infection alone.

For this reason, as soon as pneumonia is suspected, diagnosis and treatment needs to begin immediately. Treatment usually consists of antibiotics, and preventative measures include keeping sick people away from the baby. Luckily, pneumonia in newborns is often easily treated and leaves no long-term complications.

4. Apnea

You may have heard of sleep apnea, which happens while you are sleeping and causes you to stop breathing for a short time. Premature babies, however, are prone to get a form of apnea known as apnea of prematurity. With this condition, newborn babies randomly and repeatedly stop breathing for 15 to 20 seconds when they sleep.

The condition usually affects babies who are born before 35 weeks. Not only does it stop the breathing for a short time, but the condition also drops your baby's heart rate. Typically, babies with this condition frequently have their heart rate drop to below 80 beats per minutes , leading to pale or bluish skin.

Treatment usually involves some medications containing small amounts of caffeine and monitoring. In most cases, the condition goes away in a few months and doesn't return.

Premature babies can have a lot of complications, especially related to their lungs and breathing. If you would like to know more about premature birth complications, contact us at Advocare Lerch and Amato Pediatrics.

What to Know About Flu Vaccines and Children

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 07:57:50 GMT

Influenza, otherwise commonly known as the flu, is a potentially serious health risk to your child. Therefore, your child should get a flu vaccination. Most children can get the vaccine with little or no problem. Flu vaccines not only protect your child from the flu. They also protect the other people around them, including you, your child's friends, and their teachers.

Here is more information about flu vaccines, how they protect your child, and when your child should get one.

What Does the Flu Vaccine Do?

The flu vaccine protects your child from certain variations of the influenza virus. It is based on the most common influenza strains from the previous season. Even though the flu virus often mutates, the vaccine still provides protection. Flu vaccines are proven to reduce serious cases of the flu. This means less chance of hospitalization, especially with high-risk populations.

Does the Flu Vaccine Cause the Flu?

No, the flu vaccine does not cause the flu. The vaccine is composed of inactive (dead) versions of the virus. However, some people's immune system may react strongly to the vaccine. This may result in flu-like symptoms, such as body aches and fever, soon after vaccination. Also, the vaccine is not fully effective for about two weeks, so your child could still get the flu during that time.

How Old Should Children Be to Get Vaccinated?

Most children over six months old can be vaccinated. If your child is under eight, and has never received a flu shot, then two doses, given a month apart, are especially effective. After that, most children and adults can get only one shot per year. While very young infants should not be vaccinated, if you are pregnant, then a flu shot will protect you and your fetus.

Can Children With Egg Allergies Be Vaccinated?

In the past, people with egg allergies were told that they could not receive the flu shot. This is because the vaccine is developed with eggs. However, current recommendations are that the amount of egg in the vaccine is negligible.

People with egg allergies should be fine with the flu vaccine. If your child has severe reactions to eggs, such as asthma, then you may wish to have him or her vaccinated at the doctor's office rather than at a pharmacy or flu shot clinic.

Which Children Should Not Be Vaccinated?

Most children are eligible for the flu vaccine. However, children with Guillain-Barre Syndrome are usually told to abstain from vaccination. Guillain-Barre syndrome is a rare auto-immune disease that attacks the nerves.

If your child has allergies to other components of the vaccine, such as gelatin or antibiotics, then talk to their doctor first. Children who are sick with a fever may need to have their vaccine postponed until they are better.

When Should Children Be Vaccinated?

The best time for your child to receive a vaccination is before the main part of the flu season starts. This is usually around October. However, your child can be vaccinated at any time of the year. Even if your child receives the vaccine late in the season, he or she still has protection against that year's flu strains. If your child has problems with injections, then he or she may be eligible for a nasal vaccine if any are available.

The flu vaccine is a very effective measure to protect your child, and everyone else, from the potential deadly influenza virus. If you are concerned about how this vaccine may affect your child, or whether your child should get vaccinated, then talk to a doctor.

The staff and doctors at Advocare Lerch & Amato Pediatrics can answer your questions and concerns about vaccination. We can even give your child a flu shot right in our office. Call us for an appointment during our convenient open hours.

Sodium and Your Child’s Health

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 08:00:25 GMT

Sodium can go from an essential nutrient to a health threat when people consume too much of it. This rule holds true for children as well as adults. Unfortunately, even if you know exactly what your kids eat from one meal or snack to the next, you may not know for certain how much sodium those foods contain.

Awareness of this potential health problem can help you recognize where hidden sodium may lurk in your children's diets. This allows you to make any necessary alterations to your home menu and educate your kids about sodium's dangers. Here are some important points to guide your path.

Why Kids Get Too Much Sodium

Humans require a certain amount of sodium intake just to stay alive. This mineral helps to normalize the water balance of your tissues. Inadequate sodium in the bloodstream leads to muscle cramps, vomiting, nausea, and seizures.

Unfortunately, Americans of all ages tend to consume too much sodium. The Centers for Disease Control recommends that individuals consume no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium per day. However, the American Heart Association reports that American kids consume a daily average of 3,100 milligrams of sodium.

What Excess Sodium Does to Children's Bodies

Excess sodium can lead to high blood pressure in children. Up to seven percent of children between the ages of 3 and 18 suffer from either pre-hypertension or full-blown hypertension. High blood pressure that goes untreated in childhood often continues into adulthood.

Excess sodium also goes hand in hand with obesity. Because sodium causes water retention, it also promotes unhealthy weight gain. The fact that many sodium-heavy processed foods also contain large quantities of fats and sugars only aggravates this problem.

Children with underlying health conditions may prove especially vulnerable to excess sodium in the diet. For instance, kids who suffer from kidney disease may already have trouble eliminating sodium through the urine, making them even more prone to hypertension and other sodium-related health risks.

What Excess Sodium Intake Looks Like

In some cases, excess sodium consumption in your children may make itself known to you through certain telltale signs. For instance, a child who consumes too much sodium may seem eternally thirsty. The child's urine may also appear unusually dark in color, a sign of insufficient water moving through the kidneys.

While a number of factors can contribute to childhood obesity, excess sodium consumption can cause weight gain even in the absence of these other factors. If your child gains significant weight or cannot seem to lose extra weight (despite moderate food intake and plenty of exercise), suspect sodium-related water retention.

To observe the most obvious warning of excess sodium intake, look no further than your child's plate. Kids who eat a lot of packaged, processed foods usually get more sodium than they need. If your kids routinely buy vending-machine sodas and snacks, bear in mind that these products contain sodium as well.

How You Can Moderate Your Children's Sodium Intake

You can help your children get the nutrition they need without also getting too much sodium. Start at mealtime by limiting how often you serve standard kids' fare such as pizza and burgers, which typically contain lots of sodium. If your kids can't do without these foods, look for low-sodium cooking options.

Most of the foods available on grocery store shelves sport nutritional labels that include the amount of sodium per serving. Count these milligrams as carefully as a dieter might count calories. Make sure that the daily total sodium you serve your kids doesn't exceed the recommended 2,300 milligrams.

Kids can watch their own sodium intake once they understand the potential dangers of too much sodium. Educate your kids on healthy eating habits, teach them how to read food labels, and encourage them to learn more on their own about the subject. This knowledge can pave the way for a more health-conscious adulthood.

You can go a long way toward safeguarding your children against the potential problems caused by excess sodium. Contact Advocare Lerch & Amato Pediatrics for more information and advice.

Signs of IBS Every Parent Should Know

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 08:02:18 GMT

Even though irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is commonly associated with adults, IBS is a condition that often shows up in the teen years. Most people report the onset of symptoms of IBS before they reach the age of 35 and many report symptoms in their childhood, and in Western countries, girls and women are more likely to experience IBS than boys and men.

Any time your child has issues with digestion, pediatric medical attention is important. You may be able to spot some of the signs of IBS in your child if you listen carefully to their complaints and watch their bathroom habits. Here is a look at some of the signs of IBS every parent of an adolescent should know.

Recurrent Complaints of Digestive Issues

The initial symptom most parents will recognize is recurrent complaints of digestive issues. Your teen may complain that their stomach hurts every time they eat, that they have diarrhea, feel constipated, or even bloated and gassy. All of these symptoms can be related to IBS, but the key is the issue will be recurrent.

Children and teens commonly experience the occasional bout of stomach pain or issues with digestion; this is not out of the norm. However, a teen who has IBS will have periodic issues with digestion that seem to stem from nowhere. For example, your child may have IBS if they experience digestive issues at least 12 weeks in a year, and those weeks do not have to be concurrent.

Individuals who have IBS will experience flare-ups, or times when things seem fine and times when symptoms hang around for several days at a time. It is easy to overlook digestive problems that go away, but if the symptoms are returning rather frequently, it could be IBS.

Changes in Bowel Movement Patterns or Frequencies

IBS is related to issues with the function of the colon or large intestines. The colon is responsible for moving waste through the intestines and out through the rectum. People who have IBS may have either an overactive or underactive colon. The organ may move food through the intestines faster and cause cramping and diarrhea, or it may move too slowly and lead to major issues with constipation.

If you are spending a fair amount of time with your teen, you will likely notice if the frequency of their bowel movements changes drastically, especially if they are heading to the bathroom more frequently. Diarrhea-predominant IBS is the most common type of IBS; about a third of diagnosed patients experience diarrhea, and those who do may have at least 12 bowel movements a week.

Complaints of Pain That Is Only Relieved After a Bowel Movement

With IBS, stomach pain or cramping is a common complaint. The cramping is usually a result of the colon working hard to push food through the digestive tract. However, if your child has constipation-predominant IBS, stomach pain can actually come from the intestines being too full or engorged.

If your child is complaining about stomach pain, ask them if the pain subsides after they have had a bowel movement. If the pain does subside, IBS could be to blame if other symptoms are present. For instance, if your teen is having stomach pain combined with diarrhea, IBS could be the issue.

Talk to a Doctor About Adolescent IBS

IBS is a treatable condition, and lifestyle changes or medications may help your child better control the symptoms. Work with a qualified pediatrician to ensure your child gets the proper diagnosis and treatment. If you believe your child has IBS, contact us at Advocare Lerch & Amato Pediatrics to schedule an appointment.

Tips for Feeding Your Family Well on a Budget

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 16:25:52 GMT

The United States Department of Agriculture recommends the average family of four set aside $1,000 every month for their food budget. For some families, this isn't a problem. Other families, however, may not have as much money in their food budget. Fortunately, there are steps everyone can take that will help stretch their food budget and still provide their family with healthy meals.

The United States Department of Agriculture recommends the average family of four set aside $1,000 every month for their food budget. For some families, this isn't a problem. Other families, however, may not have as much money in their food budget. Fortunately, there are steps everyone can take that will help stretch their food budget and still provide their family with healthy meals.

Plan Your Meals

Set aside 30–60 minutes each week to make a meal plan. Spend time perusing the ads from the grocery stores you routinely shop at. Consider checking out the circulars from stores you don't normally shop at as well. Jot down the best sales and deals at each grocery store as you look through the ads. Once you have finished going through each one, go over your notes.

You may decide you only want to shop at one store, or you may decide grabbing the best deals from a few different stores is best for your budget and time constraints. Regardless, incorporate the deals you find into your meal plan for the coming week.

Ask Your Grocer When They Do Their Markdowns

Virtually every store ends up reducing prices on meat each day. This meat can either be used the same day or frozen for future use. Stores will often reduce produce that is nearing the end of peak freshness, too.

For example, you may find a good deal on brown bananas, which you can use to make banana bread or breakfast muffins. If you know when to find the daily deals, you can drastically reduce your expenditures.

Incorporate Meatless Mondays

If you join the Meatless Monday movement, you will be joining a global initiative with the goal of reducing meat consumption by 15 percent for both individual health as well as that of the planet. By cutting out meat just one day a week, you will be reducing your personal meat consumption as well as your food budget as non-animal protein sources are typically less expensive.

For example, beans are inexpensive yet still an excellent source of protein and high in fiber. Simple meals such as red beans and rice or a hearty minestrone served with a side salad and whole grain bread are nutrient-rich as well as quick, easy, and cheap.

Take Advantage of Modern Appliances

Families today are often extremely busy. Between working and children's schoolwork and extracurricular activities, it can be all too tempting to order takeout or grab fast food. Unfortunately, this decision can blow your food budget. It's also not likely to be the healthiest option.

Slow cookers and the updated instant pressure cookers can make getting a nutritious meal on the table much quicker. Vacuum sealers are also great for making the most of your food budget. Whenever you find good deals on produce, meat, or other bulk products, you can divide the food up into portions that are the right size for your family. Your food will stay fresh longer and frozen foods will be safe from freezer burn.

Repurpose Your Leftovers

Children, as well as adults, can be picky about eating leftovers. By turning them into something else, you can prevent food waste and keep your family happy. For example, Sunday's baked chicken can be Tuesday's tacos.

Leftovers make great lunches and they are also good for turning into soups or casseroles. Alternatively, you can purchase reusable plastic or glass containers with compartments and turn your leftovers into frozen TV dinners for quick and easy meals on future busy nights.

Your family's health is important to you, and you likely know how critical it is children are offered an assortment of healthy and nutritious foods if they are going to grow and develop properly. If you have any concerns about your child(ren)'s diet, eating habits, weight, food sensory issues, or your family is experiencing food insecurity, contact us today.

Cold, Sinus Infection, or Allergies: Which Is Affecting Your Child?

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 16:24:01 GMT

When your child has an upper respiratory problem, you may automatically think that they are suffering from a cold. However, other conditions like sinus infections and allergies can share the same symptoms. If you try to treat for the wrong one, then your child's symptoms may not go away or could even get worse.

When your child has an upper respiratory problem, you may automatically think that they are suffering from a cold. However, other conditions like sinus infections and allergies can share the same symptoms. If you try to treat for the wrong one, then your child's symptoms may not go away or could even get worse.

Here is more information about the similarities and differences between colds, sinus infections, and allergies to help you better understand the three conditions.

How the Ailments Are Similar

Part of the difficulty in self-diagnosing your child's upper respiratory problem is that many of the symptoms between them are alike, at least on the surface. Here are some of the most similar symptoms between a cold, a sinus infection, and allergies:

Runny nose, including post nasal drip
Coughing
Trouble breathing
Sneezing
Sore throat

If your child is very young, then they will likely not be able to express some of these symptoms verbally. For example, a baby can't tell you if they have a sore throat. Therefore, for illnesses in children, close observation is very important, as it can help you determine which problem your child has.

How the Ailments Are Different

While colds, sinus infections, and allergies may seem the same at first glance, if you dig deeper, you will see that there are some stark differences between the three. Not only are there some distinct symptoms, the causes are all different. Here are some examples of the different symptoms and causes of these illnesses.

Sinus infections and colds tend to have fevers, while allergies don't.
Colds and sinus infections have thick nasal mucous, but allergies usually do not.
Sinus infections are often accompanied by headaches and swelling around the eyes.
Allergies respond to antihistamines, but colds and sinus infections do not.
Colds are caused by a virus, sinus infections can be caused by either viruses or bacteria, and allergies are caused by allergens.

To complicate things further, both colds and allergies can contribute to sinus infections, and your child can suffer from more than one ailment at a time.

Colds often come on suddenly and resolve themselves within a few days. Sinus infections will frequently follow a cold, or they can appear suddenly as well. Allergies, however, either come on gradually, or after a new element, such as a pet or new food, is introduced into the environment.

How Your Pediatrician Makes a Diagnosis

Your pediatrician will perform tests to make a clear diagnosis to determine the exact cause of your child's upper respiratory problem. The doctor will take nasal swabs and, perhaps, even x-rays to determine exact causes. If the doctor suspects allergies, then you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire and your child will undergo allergy testing to track down the offending allergen.

How Each Ailment Is Treated

One of the reasons why you should get an accurate diagnosis is that all three ailments are usually treated differently. For example, sinus infections sometimes require antibiotics, while antibiotics are useless against colds and allergies.

Some cold medications can help clear up nasal passages in both colds and allergies, but the medications don't work well to fight against the cause of an allergy. Cold medications have some effect on sinus infections, but will not cure one that is serious.

The good thing is that all three upper respiratory problems are treatable and manageable. However, don't treat your child until you have talked to a medical professional first, especially if your child is under two years old. If your child is suffering from upper respiratory problems that seem to linger, then contact Advocare Lerch & Amato Pediatrics for an appointment. We are specialists in treating children and can administer the proper tests to pinpoint the cause of your child's health problem.

How To Protect School-Age Children From Cold And Flu Viruses

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 16:17:41 GMT

School is a great place for children to learn, but unfortunately, schools can also be a breeding grounds for germs, such as the viruses that cause the flu and the common cold. In the U.S., children miss about 22 million school days each year due to the common cold alone. So how do you protect your child from illness in such a busy school environment? Start by following these tips.

School is a great place for children to learn, but unfortunately, schools can also be a breeding grounds for germs, such as the viruses that cause the flu and the common cold. In the U.S., children miss about 22 million school days each year due to the common cold alone. So how do you protect your child from illness in such a busy school environment? Start by following these tips.

Have Your Child Vaccinated for the Flu

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that children ages 6 months and older are vaccinated annually for influenza. Your child will need a flu vaccine each year since the flu vaccine is updated each year to protect against the newest, most common strains of the flu.

Your child cannot get the flu from the vaccine, and the vaccine is very safe. Flu season typically starts in October, so the sooner you're able to have your child vaccinated, the better. In the weeks following the vaccine, your child's body will build immunity to the flu virus. If your child does encounter the flu virus at school, he or she will have an easier time fighting it off.

Teach Your Child to Wash Their Hands

Hand washing is very effective in stopping the spread of illnesses like the common cold and the flu. Unfortunately, most school-aged children do not wash their hands nearly as often as they should. According to one study, only 58 percent of female students and 48 percent of male students washed their hands after using the restroom.

When your child washes their hands after using the restroom, they are not only washing away germs they may have encountered in the restroom — but also germs they've accumulated by touching desks, doorknobs, and other surfaces throughout the day.

Talk about hand washing regularly at home, and make sure your child knows that washing their hands will help prevent them from becoming ill. Let your child see you wash your hands often at home, too. Children mimic behaviors that they see.

Send Your Child to School With a Water Bottle

Another way germs are spread at school is via the sharing of water bottles and drinking vessels. This is really common among kids who play sports. Not only can your child catch a cold by sharing a bottle, but they could also contract more serious illnesses like strep throat and mononucleosis.

Sending your child to school with their own water bottle will help deter them from sharing with others. They can refill the water bottle at the school's drinking fountains as needed throughout the day.

Remind your child not to allow others to drink from their water bottle. Let them pick out their own bottle so you can be sure it's one they love and will use.

Ensure Your Child Gets Plenty of Sleep

The school year is a busy time, and your child probably has a lot going on between classes, sports, and social activities. Regardless of how busy they get, you need to make sure they're getting plenty of sleep. Lack of sleep affects the immune system, making your child's body less able to fight off cold and flu viruses they encounter at school.

Here much sleep your child needs depends on their age. Children ages 3 to 6 need about 12 - 14 hours per night. At ages 7 - 12, they need 10 - 11 hours per night, and at ages 12 - 18, they need 8 - 9 hours per night. A good way to ensure your children get adequate sleep is to designate a bedtime. As they grow older, you can slowly make their bedtime later and later.

Follow the tips above to help protect your child from the common cold and the flu this school year. Consult with the pediatricians at Advocare Lerch & Amato Pediatrics for more for advice and information.

New Babies and Feeding: Common Parental Concerns

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 16:15:41 GMT

As a new parent, you face a steep learning curve. Something as simple as feeding a baby or getting enough sleep can seem especially daunting. Don't worry; many new parents have questions about feeding a new baby and many wonder if they are doing the right things when providing for the needs of an infant.

As a new parent, you face a steep learning curve. Something as simple as feeding a baby or getting enough sleep can seem especially daunting. Don't worry; many new parents have questions about feeding a new baby and many wonder if they are doing the right things when providing for the needs of an infant.

If you have concerns about providing adequate nutrition for your new baby, consider the following list of common parent concerns. Soon, you'll get to know your baby's needs and wants, giving them the best care possible.

How Often Does a Baby Need to Eat?

New parents are often surprised to learn how often a newborn baby is hungry, and they might worry that their baby needs to eat all the time.

A new baby's stomach is very small, so they cannot eat very much food at once. Infants also go through a period of intense growth, which means they need food to fuel their sudden burst development.

You might have heard that a baby needs to eat every two hours, but some babies will be hungry more often, and some will be hungry less often. Don't be concerned if your baby feels the need to eat frequently, especially if you are breastfeeding. You cannot overfeed a baby who breastfeeds on demand.

On-demand breastfeeding, especially at first, will take a large portion of your time during the day as your baby learns to suckle. As they get older, they will be able to feed more efficiently.

Talk to your doctor about the recommended amounts per feeding of formula.

If your baby eats constantly and still seems hungry, talk to your doctor. Your baby could need assistance feeding, might have a lip or tongue tie that makes it hard to suckle normally, or you might need help supplementing breastfeeding.

Is My Baby Spitting Up Too Much?

Another common feeding concern for parents is how much a baby might spit up after a meal. It might seem like your baby is spitting up everything they ate. However, spitting up is normal for baby development, and as long as your baby is hydrated (producing several wet diapers each day) and gaining weight, spit-up should not be a concern.

However, there are conditions where spitting up too much indicates an underlying problem.

Some babies with severe reflux might need help from medication to keep meals down. Doctors might also recommend baby-wearing and semi-reclined sleeping positions to help food stay down.

In some cases, babies who forcefully vomit after every meal could be suffering from pyloric stenosis, where muscles in the stomach close and prevent food from entering the intestine. This condition, most common in male babies, is serious and often requires surgical correction.

Does Breastfeeding Get Easier?

Breastfeeding mothers will be happy to hear that feeding gets easier with time. Mother and baby both learn from each other, and the time and effort required to complete a feeding are reduced.

If your baby has trouble latching or if breastfeeding stays painful even after several weeks of frequent feeding, talk to your doctor. They might recommend a lactation consultant, or they might check for reasons why feeding is not going as smoothly.

Also, don't neglect care for yourself as a mother. Use a breast pump to relieve oversupply, massage out tough or painful areas, and use lanolin for sore nipples. If you notice severe pain while feeding, red streaks, or white filmy spots in your baby's mouth, talk to your doctor. Breast infections can make breastfeeding much more painful, and they should be treated promptly.

Should I Give My Baby Water?

Babies do not need water until they begin eating solid food. Breastmilk and formula provide plenty of water to meet the needs of your infant. In fact, don't give water at all unless your doctor tells you to. Giving water to a newborn baby can cause dangerous nutritional deficiencies and chemical imbalances.

For more information, contact us at Advocare Lerch & Amato Pediatrics.

4 Tips for Managing ADD/ADHD in Children

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 16:31:23 GMT

Attention-deficit disorder (ADD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are conditions with complex roots in neurobehavior, psychology, and development. Children who have AD/HD showcase persistent impulsiveness and inattention. Depending on their unique presentation, they may also display hyperactivity.

Attention-deficit disorder (ADD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are conditions with complex roots in neurobehavior, psychology, and development. Children who have AD/HD showcase persistent impulsiveness and inattention. Depending on their unique presentation, they may also display hyperactivity.

Children with AD/HD, as with all children, are inherently good kids. They just need a customized plan for dealing with their behavior. Below are some key tips for setting the foundation.

1. Reinforce the Sequence of Events

Time management is a developed skill, not a natural one, for any child. It's especially difficult for children with AD/HD to develop these skills. The first step is learning the sequence of events, which is taught in preschool and kindergarten. You'll want to reinforce this learning at home to help your child develop time management skills.

Start by emphasizing sequencing words such as first, next, and finally. So, instead of saying, brush your teeth and go to bed, say, first brush your teeth, then go to bed.

You could also question your child with those sequencing words, asking what they did first, after that, and so on. Make it into a game, alternating who gives directions using the sequencing words.

Eventually, children become accustomed not only to using the sequencing words but to the abstract concept of events coming in a sequence. This knowledge will serve as a foundation for learning time management.

2. Give One-Step Instructions

The above tip is good for providing an important learning foundation for your child. However, in the day-to-day grind, sometimes chores just need to get done. When that's the case, don't give a sequence of instructions. Instead, be clear about the first task that needs to get done before providing instructions for the second chore.

For instance, say you want your child to put some toys away, take out the trash, and get started on homework. Give concise instructions for the first chore: Pick up all your toys and put them in their bins. Once that task is accomplished, move on to instructions for the second task.

3. Make Both Rewards and Consequences Immediate

Just because you give clear instructions doesn't mean your child will follow them. Even mildly oppositional children will disobey. What's more, children with AD/HD get distracted. They may stop doing their one task and move on to something else that's caught their attention — and is inherently more interesting than chores.

When that happens, you want consequences to be immediate. At bare minimum, you want to express that you notice your child hasn't completed the given task as soon as you see it happening. However, you'll also want to develop discipline strategies that align with your parental beliefs, such as time outs or redirection.

That said, rewards should be equally as swift. When you see your child exhibiting the target behavior, offer immediate praise. If you've promised a specific reward, you should also immediately offer it or acknowledge it's coming: I see you've finished cleaning your room. That means ice cream for dessert.

4. Set Clocks and Timers for Key Activities

All children need established schedules. Children with AD/HD especially need a routine schedule to help with that time management issue. Otherwise, they can become distracted and do 10 more interesting activities before they even get to unpacking their backpacks. So, you'll want to set up a schedule with specific times to accomplish key tasks.

To reinforce the schedule, have clocks with timers in the relevant areas of the house. Set each clock for a time you want your child to start a given activity. Reinforce with rewards and discipline that the buzzing clock indicates said activity must start.

Getting started is only half the battle. If time is of the essence, you can also start timers. So, let's say you've set in the schedule that 5:00 is homework time and 6:00 is dinner time. Children with AD/HD may need a timer to understand homework time ends after a specific period. The timer will reinforce they need to keep working on the given task.

Children with AD/HD need specific behavior management protocols. Consult with the experts at Advocare Lerch & Amato Pediatrics for help developing a plan tailored to your child's needs.

5 Ways to Help Your Child Through a Stomach Virus

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 16:27:42 GMT

When your child comes down with a stomach virus, it is important to take the appropriate measures to help your child recover. Here are a few tips for helping your child feel better when he or she is stricken with a stomach virus.

When your child comes down with a stomach virus, it is important to take the appropriate measures to help your child recover. Here are a few tips for helping your child feel better when he or she is stricken with a stomach virus.

1. Recognize the Signs of Dehydration

One of the main complications of a stomach virus is the risk of dehydration. Because a stomach virus, or stomach bug, often causes vomiting and diarrhea, dehydration is a possibility. Knowing how to prevent dehydration and what foods to eat and avoid as your child recovers is important. Here are a few warning signs to look out for.

Infrequent urination, or not urinating at all
Lethargy or fatigue
Lack of tears when crying
Dry lips or mouth

If you believe your child has become dehydrated, you need to re-hydrate as quickly as possible. Mild dehydration may be treated at home but more advanced cases may require the help of a physician.

2. Help Your Child Become Rehydrated

As your child loses fluids through vomiting or diarrhea, he or she is also losing important nutrients. Key nutrients such as salt, sugar, and minerals may need to be replaced. Electrolyte solutions may be more beneficial than just plain water and these solutions are often available at grocery stores and pharmacies. Ask your pediatrician for advice if you are not sure how much your child should consume.

Offer small sips at first and wait to see if your child can hold the fluids down before offering more. Ice chips may help rehydrate as well, especially if your child has difficulty keeping fluids down. Keeping your child hydrated should be a priority, but avoid dairy and milk as this may upset your child's digestive system while fighting the virus. Acidic drinks should also be avoided.

3. Introduce Food Gradually (and Choose the Right Foods)

Once your child is able to hold liquids down and vomiting has stopped for a while, you may begin offering him or her solid food. Begin with very bland food that is easily digested. Physicians often recommend the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast). At the same time, your child should avoid spicy, fatty, and fried foods for a few days or until he or she has fully recovered.

4. Treat Your Child's Fever

If your child develops a low-grade fever during a bout with a stomach virus, consult your pediatrician. It may be fine to give your child some acetaminophen, as it is least likely to cause stomach upset. As always, follow the directions that are intended for your child's age.

5. Ensure Your Child Gets Plenty of Rest

Fighting a stomach virus can zap your child's energy. To help your child recover as quickly as possible, he or she needs adequate rest. Be sure your child gets enough sleep, and allow him or her to rest during the day as well. Resting will reserve energy your child needs to help the immune system fight the illness.

As a final thought, seek medical treatment for your child if symptoms persist. If vomiting and diarrhea persist or if your child's fever lingers, it is best to consult your child's pediatrician. The doctor might have specific questions for you, so you might want to write things down. Provide information such as when your child first became ill, how long he or she has had symptoms, and if anyone else in your family has the same symptoms.

Call Advocare Lerch & Amato Pediatrics today if your child is suffering from a stomach virus. Our qualified pediatricians will help your child become happy and healthy again.

What Every Parent Needs to Know About Childhood Obesity

Tue, 26 Nov 2019 16:33:12 GMT

If you're a parent, you want what's best for your child's physical and emotional health. Knowing the causes and risks of childhood obesity, and how to prevent it, is one way to keep your child in good health, both physically and emotionally.

If you're a parent, you want what's best for your child's physical and emotional health. Knowing the causes and risks of childhood obesity, and how to prevent it, is one way to keep your child in good health, both physically and emotionally.

Whether your child is at a healthy weight or already struggles with being overweight, it's never too early or too late to make healthy changes that will benefit your child in the future and protect them from the complications of obesity.

What Causes Childhood Obesity?

Childhood obesity can be caused by lifestyle factors or genetic and hormonal issues. However, most causes can be linked to lifestyle. Your pediatrician can order testing to rule out whether your child's obesity is influenced by genetics or caused by lifestyle factors.

You can't always determine if your child is overweight by appearance. Some children have larger body frames, and weight can fluctuate during various phases of childhood development. Your pediatrician may use the body mass index, growth charts, or other tests to see if your child's weight is above the healthy range.

What Are the Risk Factors for Childhood Obesity?

In addition to hormonal and genetic components, childhood obesity is influenced by several risk factors, including:

Sedentary lifestyle: Video games, social media, and TV watching often replace physical activity in children, which can lead to obesity. Children who are sedentary may not burn off enough calories to prevent them from gaining weight.
Poor diet: If your child consumes a lot of sugary soft drinks or snack foods, they may be at risk. Even foods considered healthy can cause problems if eaten in excess. For instance, high consumption of fruit juices, granola bars, or popcorn can add up to a lot of calories.
Psychological issues: If your child is stressed out due to emotional issues, it may lead to unhealthy eating patterns. Family problems, bullying at school, or loss can trigger eating disorders that often affect weight.

If you notice any of these risk factors in your child’s life, their pediatrician can help you find solutions that can mitigate damage and further risk.

What Are the Complications of Childhood Obesity?

The complications of childhood obesity can't be ignored. Type 2 diabetes, usually found only in adults, is increasing in children. Children who are overweight are also more likely to develop high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and sleep apnea.

Bone and joint problems can develop in overweight children. Though not conclusive, some recent research suggests that overweight children may be at a higher risk of cancer, liver, or kidney disease. Developing these health problems early in childhood can set your child up for a life of poor health.

One of the most concerning complications of childhood obesity is how it can affect your child emotionally. Overweight children may be made fun of or bullied in some cases. A healthy self-image is developed in the formative years of childhood, and a negative self-image can be difficult to overcome later in life.

How Can Childhood Obesity Be Prevented?

Make healthy living a family affair by allowing your child to help choose healthy foods and recipes. Plan outdoor activities that will keep your child active. Set a good example for your child by keeping your own lifestyle healthy.

Be conscious of how you use food in the home. Don't force your child to clean their plate at meals, and keep healthy snacks prepared and easy for your child to access. Avoid the temptation to use food as a reward for good behavior and choose a non-food treat instead, such as having a friend over, going to a movie, or going to the park.

As a parent, you can take an active role in keeping your child at a weight that's best for their health. Be aware of the causes and risks of childhood obesity so that you can develop a healthy lifestyle plan that can benefit your child's emotional and physical health. Contact our caring staff at Advocare Lerch & Amato Pediatrics to discuss lifestyle changes to keep your child's weight at a healthy level.