For many adults, having an annual physical is routine and an important gauge of their health. These exams are also beneficial for children. They allow parents to keep up with health issues the child is already experiencing as well as new ones that may turn up during an exam. Annual physicals also provide children the opportunity to ask medical questions as they grow. Physicals are part of the back-to-school routine for athletes, but all children can and should benefit from these exams.
Through their conversations with young patients, doctors can help to identify worrisome issues that might otherwise be overlooked by even the best parents. A routine exam can save a life. Typically, all major body systems are checked during these visits. Your child’s growth and development will also be evaluated.
Your child’s doctor will also look for the less obvious. Sometimes these minor concerns have the potential to develop into big problems if left unaddressed. Screenings can sometimes uncover “silent” issues, such as elevated blood pressure. Additionally, your child’s doctor can take this valuable opportunity to counsel children and teens on how to take better care of themselves.
Routine exams help put parents on the right track to better health for their children. At first they may not want to get regular exams, but once a routine is established, children will grow to understand the value of time spent with their physician every year. Seeing the pediatrician only when sick or at required visits for immunizations and school forms deprives both parents and children of the valuable information their doctor may have at a routine check-up.
Routine exams are a way for families to become partners in their child’s health. Some of the most common concerns that come up are sleep problems, diet, allergies, and bowel-function issues. Sometimes children will be reluctant to listen to their parent’s advice, but when they also hear the same things coming from their doctor it helps to send the proper message.
Dr. Nancy Witham, M.D., is a board certified pediatrician with Lee Physician Group. Her office is located at 260 Beth Stacey, Suite C, in Lehigh Acres. Additional offices are located in Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, and Cape Coral. She can be reached at 239-343-9888.