Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions in pediatrics. It’s defined as a respiratory condition that can cause breathing difficulties. Left untreated, asthma can be life-threatening. At Rexburg Pediatrics, we help develop treatment plans for asthmatic children so they can live normal, active lives.
Chronic Conditions
Being a parent often involves dealing with chronic conditions in your children, and it is not easy to endure. You're bound to have an abundance of questions, especially where there is uncertainty. At Rexburg Pediatrics, we understand that managing chronic conditions in children can be a very draining experience that requires a lot of special care and attention.
Chronic conditions can have long-lasting, adverse effects on a child’s life, well-being, and development. Our dedicated team at Rexburg Pediatrics is available to help provide the care, support, and treatment your child needs, no matter which chronic condition they may be battling.
What Is a Chronic Condition?
A chronic condition is defined as a long-term health issue that persists over time and tends to require ongoing treatment, management, and care. In pediatric cases, chronic conditions can be serious, as they can greatly impact your child’s physical health, emotional well-being, and quality of life long-term.
Identifying and treating chronic conditions as early as possible is essential to giving your child the greatest opportunity to thrive.
Common Chronic Conditions in Pediatrics
There are a wide range of chronic illnesses your child could be diagnosed with, but these are some of the most common:
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs when the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin or when the body can’t use the insulin it does produce appropriately. Over time, high blood glucose levels can damage the body’s organs. To avoid serious health complications, diabetes must be treated. We offer comprehensive care plans for children with diabetes to help them manage their sugar levels.
Genetic disorders are caused by DNA abnormalities. They exist before birth but begin to manifest in a child’s earliest years. Genetic disorders range in their severity, but they should all be addressed by medical professionals as soon as possible to increase the likelihood of your child’s long-term wellness.
Mental health disorders can impact anyone at any age. Some of the most common conditions present in children include anxiety, depression, and ADHD. Our empathetic team at Rexburg Pediatrics can help you determine the most effective course of action for tending to your child’s mental health concerns.
Thyroid issues are much less common in children than in adults, but children can still suffer from hyperthyroidism at a young age. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, causing a host of problems. Your child may experience a slowed growth rate, constipation, weight gain, fatigue, dry skin, and more. Our team can help develop a treatment plan to ensure your child develops at a healthy rate.
Treatment Options for Chronic Pediatric Conditions
There are several treatment options to explore when it comes to managing chronic conditions in your child. Here are some of the key interventions to consider:
Lifestyle changes
Making lifestyle changes for your child (and committing to them long-term) is an incredibly effective way to manage the symptoms of chronic conditions. Improving your child’s diet, exercise, and mental wellness can significantly impact how your child feels in spite of their chronic condition.
Medication
In many cases, medication is the most common and effective way to treat and manage chronic conditions. However, be sure to consult with your child’s pediatrician to determine if medication is the best option for your child.
Therapy
Therapy is another effective way to manage chronic conditions. Certain types of therapy, like physical therapy, occupational therapy, or counseling, may be more effective in the treatment of certain conditions than others.
Why a Care Plan Is Essential for Chronic Condition Management
Having a care plan in place is paramount when it comes to managing your child’s chronic condition. It has the potential to significantly impact your child’s long-term health and ability to thrive, so it needs to be thoughtfully established and executed.
How to Have Your Child Evaluated for a Chronic Condition
If your child has a chronic condition or you suspect your child may have a chronic condition, call Rexburg Pediatrics today to schedule an appointment. Our experienced team can evaluate your child to determine if they have a chronic condition and provide guidance for how to move forward if so.