The endocrine system regulates growth, metabolism, puberty, and many other processes in a child's body. Most endocrine diseases develop gradually, and their early symptoms may be subtle. This is why it is important to know the symptoms that warrant a visit to a pediatric endocrinologist.
What issues does a pediatric endocrinologist address?
The doctor helps to diagnose and treat:
- growth disorders (short stature or excessively tall height);
- thyroid diseases;
- excess body weight and obesity;
- diabetes and carbohydrate metabolism disorders;
- puberty disorders;
- conditions related to calcium-phosphorus metabolism and bone health.
When should you consult a doctor?
Symptoms that may indicate carbohydrate metabolism disorders
Consult a doctor immediately if the child:
- constantly feels thirsty;
- has started urinating significantly more often;
- has lost weight without an obvious reason;
- tires quickly or has become lethargic;
- has a fruity smell (acetone) from the mouth.
Growth disorders or changes in body weight
A consultation with an endocrinologist is needed if:
- the rate of growth has significantly slowed down or height differs substantially from age norms;
- weight is rapidly increasing despite lifestyle changes;
- wide pink or purple stretch marks have appeared on the skin of the abdomen, thighs, or shoulders.
Signs of thyroid dysfunction
Consult a doctor if the child is experiencing:
- dry skin;
- brittle hair;
- constant chilliness or heat intolerance;
- rapid heartbeat;
- unexplained drowsiness, lethargy, or on the contrary, excessive irritability;
- unexplained changes in body weight.
Features of puberty
A consultation is necessary if:
- secondary sexual characteristics appear before age 8 in girls or before age 9 in boys;
- girls after age 13 or boys after age 14 show no signs of puberty;
- menstruation has not started by age 15;
- teenagers experience prolonged menstrual cycle disturbances, pronounced acne, excessive hair growth, breast enlargement in boys, or other changes that cause concern.
What happens during a consultation?
During the appointment, the doctor:
- collects medical history, clarifies developmental characteristics of the child, nutrition, physical activity, and family history;
- assesses height, weight, body mass index, and growth rates according to international centile charts;
- conducts an examination and evaluates the stage of sexual development if necessary;
- measures blood pressure, pulse, and palpates the thyroid gland.
If indicated, the doctor may recommend laboratory tests or ultrasound of the thyroid gland or other organs.
When should you undergo a preventive examination?
A preventive consultation may be recommended for children with a family history of endocrine diseases (such as diabetes, thyroid pathology, etc.), as well as for children with excess weight, obesity, growth disorders, or upon the recommendation of a pediatrician.
Why do parents trust the “Dobrobut” medical network?
The specialists in the “Dobrobut” medical network work according to modern international recommendations and principles of evidence-based medicine. We not only diagnose and prescribe treatment but also help families to form healthy habits that promote the normal growth and development of the child.
If a child requires long-term monitoring, for example in the case of diabetes, the doctors teach the family modern self-monitoring techniques and help adapt treatment to education, physical activity, and daily life.
Timely consultation with a pediatric endocrinologist helps to identify disorders promptly, start treatment if needed, and ensure healthy development for the child.
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