Pediatric endocrinology is a medical branch that focuses on child growth, development hormonal levels, and many more. A pediatric endocrinologist is the person who treats the children with any such issues.
Many people do not understand that children are not adults. Their growth milestones are important to keep a track of their health and well-being. At times, children do not achieve a certain height or weight and parents assume that they will come along over time. But the fact is they may be lacking a hormone that is required for them to reach that particular milestone. Hence getting your child checked regularly is important to keep their health balanced.
A child’s health is analyzed after performing certain tests that are recommended by the pediatric endocrinologist depending on your health needs.
Here are some of the most commonly performed tests in pediatric endocrinology:
Blood Tests:
Blood tests are one of the most commonly recommended tests and also the mostly commonly performed ones. Blood tests are the ideal way to identify any imbalance of hormones in the body. For example if the child has hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism a child’s blood test can show any increase or decrease in thyroid levels.
Similarly blood examinations can also tell a lot about various hormonal imbalances. Also blood sample is a simple procedure and performed on an outpatient basis, the results are usually delivered within a day. Visit the best pediatric endocrinologist to ensure your child receives the best treatment and care.
Urine analysis:
Urine analysis helps determine the functioning of the kidneys and also at times to know how well the treatment is working. Urine examination can help in even checking any chemicals and contaminants. Urine analysis is also a great way to know the bone strength of the child.
X-ray examination:
X-rays employ minimal radiation to capture images of your child’s internal body structures. In X-ray images, bones appear white because they readily absorb radiation, while soft tissues or muscles display different shades due to their varying levels of radiation absorption.
Bone mineral density tests:
Bone density tests utilize X-rays to assess the mineral density of your child’s bones. This measurement indicates the strength or fragility of the bones. If your child’s bones have low mineral density, they may become porous and prone to fractures. The procedure for a bone mineral density test is akin to any other X-ray examination.
Stimulation tests:
Stimulation tests assess the responsiveness of specific glands in your child’s endocrine system to particular hormones. These tests are valuable in identifying or ruling out conditions such as diabetes, growth hormone issues, early puberty, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
Depending on the symptoms or issues a child is recommended for particular tests by a pediatric endocrinologist to diagnose the condition.
When should you visit a pediatric endocrinologist? What should you watch out for as warning signs?
Child overweight or underweight:
In the case of underweight children, the experts at the pediatric endocrinology department will seek to investigate potential underlying conditions, such as ADHD, which might affect their appetite. Conversely, for obese children, the doctors will assess their nutritional status and physical activity levels, and may additionally conduct tests to screen for conditions like hypothyroidism or diabetes.
Frequent urination:
In case your child frequently visits the bathroom then it might indicate a urinary infection or even at times may be diabetes. Identifying these signs can help in getting pediatric endocrinology treatment immediately.
Abnormal growth:
In case your child is growing too fast or too slow for their age then it might be indicating a concern. Maybe the growth hormones are either drastically decreased or increased, this might need immediate attention.
What are the common conditions that are generally treated by a pediatric endocrinologist?
Childhood diabetes:
This is one of the rising cases not in India but also all over the world. When the blood sugar is higher children can get diagnosed with diabetes. Although it can be treated with medications and lifestyle habits.
Gynecomastia:
Pubertal gynecomastia is an uncommon condition observed in teenage boys, characterized by the noncancerous enlargement of male breasts. This enlargement occurs due to the proliferation of glandular components.
Delayed puberty:
Delayed puberty is identified when a son shows no signs of puberty by the age of 14 and when a daughter exhibits no puberty development or menstruation until the age of 14. Several factors, such as head trauma, anorexia, bulimia, and radiation therapies, can contribute to delayed puberty.
Short height:
Short stature refers to a condition where children experience limited growth compared to others of the same age and gender. This condition can be influenced by various underlying factors, including inflammatory disorders, hypothyroidism, and heart and kidney diseases, all of which may contribute to the child’s growth limitation.
When a child exhibits signs of short stature, it is crucial to consult with a pediatrician or pediatric endocrinologist to identify the root cause and determine the appropriate course of action.
Important Takeaway:
If your child’s pediatrician recommends consulting a pediatric endocrinologist, you can have confidence that your child will receive top-notch care for their specific health concerns. These specialists are dedicated to understanding the unique challenges that arise during childhood and adolescence, ensuring that your child’s health and well-being are prioritized throughout their treatment journey. By seeking the expertise of a pediatric endocrinologist in Coimbatore, you are giving your child the best possible chance to overcome any endocrine-related challenges they may be facing.
