Pediatrics is a specialty in medicine that concentrates on preventing, diagnosing and treating health conditions that affect young adults, adolescents, children and infants. The term originates from two Greek words that mean healer of children.
Physicians who specialize in childhood diseases are called pediatricians. They diagnose and treat injuries, malignancies, genetic disorders, infectious and chronic diseases. Pediatricians are also concerned with the social and emotional wellbeing of their patients. They collaborate with other specialists to prevent, detect and manage behavior issues, developmental disorders, social stresses, functional problems, anxiety and depression.
A pediatrician in Utah helps families understand and deal with childhood health issues. They promote wellness in patients with unique medical requirements, such as birth defects and genetic disorders. This healthcare provider educates families and communities how to enable children to grow up in a safe and healthy environment. They provide neonatal care, newborn screening and advice on nutrition.
A Utah pediatrician can receive additional training after a three year pediatric residency and specialize in rheumatology, pulmonology, nephrology and other subspecialties. This postgraduate training is called a fellowship. They can treat asthma, cystic fibrosis, diabetes and many other disorders and conditions.
Asthma affects approximately 5 million kids in the U.S. It is a long-term medical condition that affects the airways and makes it difficult to breathe. The duration and severity of asthma symptoms vary but may include wheezing, tightness in the chest, shortness of breath and a chronic cough. Frequent asthma triggers include tobacco smoke and allergens, such as dust mites, pet dander and food allergies. Asthma is managed with medication and by reducing the asthma triggers.
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic lung disease that causes chronic respiratory infections and makes it difficult to breathe. Children with CF have difficulty clearing the mucus that clogs and inflames their airways. This disorder affects the entire body and may also cause bowel obstructions, malnutrition, poor growth and diabetes. Pediatricians tailor a multidisciplinary approach for each patient that proactively treats airway infections and encourages good nutrition.
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic disorder that impairs the ability of the pancreas to produce insulin, the substance that permits glucose to penetrate cells and make energy. Symptoms include extreme hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, weight loss, frequent urination and increased thirst. The goal of diabetes treatment is to maintain glucose near normal levels to prevent or delay future complications. Type 1 diabetes is managed with insulin, exercise, a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight.
Pediatricians work to enhance the wellbeing of children in illness and good health.
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