What Is a Pediatrician?

If you have a child, you need a pediatrician. That’s because a pediatrician is a medical specialist who is an expert at the diagnosis and treatment of children’s illnesses and diseases. Drs. Haravu Lokesh, Rupal Desai, and Monica Porcelli at A to Z Pediatrics in New Port Richey, FL, offer comprehensive medical services for children, and can help protect your child’s health.

What You Need To Know About Pediatric Medicine

Well-child visits are the foundation of pediatric medicine, and the first well-child visit may happen within 2 to 5 days of your baby’s birth. Subsequent visits should be scheduled at 2 weeks, 1 month, 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 9 months, 15 months, 18 months, and 2 years.

Well-child visits with your pediatrician are important for many reasons. Consider that during a well-child visit, your pediatrician will:

• Record your child’s height, weight, heart sounds, and breathing to evaluate the overall health
• Perform a complete physical examination to identify medical concerns or issues
• Track your child’s growth and development to make sure your child is on track for normal growth and development
• Administer any necessary vaccinations to help prevent illnesses and diseases

To view or print the Centers for Disease Control recommendations for immunizations, please click here.

In addition to routine care, another important part of what a pediatrician does is help your child recover from acute illnesses and conditions like these:

• Viruses, including colds and flu
• Bacterial infections, including strep throat and ear infections
• Injuries, including cuts, lacerations, sprains, and strains
• Skin conditions including rashes, acne, and eczema
• Allergies, asthma, and other breathing difficulties

Your pediatrician is also an expert at evaluating your child’s behavioral and mental health, including screening for:

• ADD and ADHD
• Learning difficulties
• Delayed speech
• Depression
• Anxiety

Want To Know More?

To find out more about the benefits of having a pediatrician and how a pediatrician can help your child, call Drs. Haravu Lokesh, Rupal Desai, and Monica Porcelli at A to Z Pediatrics in New Port Richey, FL. You can reach them in the office by calling (727) 375-5242, so call today.