Pediatrician

Conditions Treated

• •Respiratory Infections (Cold, Cough, Pneumonia) — Viral and bacterial infections of the airways, the most common reason for pediatric visits in India.
• •Diarrhoea & Dehydration — Frequent loose stools, often caused by viral/bacterial infections or contaminated water. Leading cause of child mortality in India.
• •Asthma & Allergies — Chronic airway inflammation causing breathing difficulty, triggered by allergens, pollution, or exercise.
• •Growth & Developmental Delays — When a child is significantly behind peers in physical growth, motor skills, speech, or cognitive development.
• •Ear Infections (Otitis Media) — Infection of the middle ear, extremely common in children under 5 due to shorter Eustachian tubes.
• •Malnutrition & Anaemia — Nutritional deficiencies affecting growth and development, very common in Indian children under 5.
• •Chickenpox & Measles — Highly contagious viral infections preventable by vaccination. Still common in under-vaccinated communities.

Health Tips

• •Complete all vaccinations on schedule
• •Ensure adequate nutrition with proteins, iron, and calcium
• •Encourage 60 minutes of physical activity daily
• •Limit screen time: zero for under 2, max 1 hour for ages 2-5
• •Teach proper handwashing with soap
• •Ensure 10-14 hours of sleep (varies by age)
• •Use ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) for diarrhoea, not antibiotics

How to Prepare for Your Visit

• •Bring the child's vaccination card and previous health records
• •Note the child's symptoms — when they started, any triggers, and what helps
• •Write down the child's current diet and eating patterns
• •Bring a list of any medications the child is currently taking
• •Note developmental milestones — when they started walking, talking, etc.
• •The doctor will measure height, weight, and head circumference (for infants)
• •Expect a physical examination — ears, throat, chest, abdomen
• •Discuss vaccination schedule and upcoming shots
• •Ask about age-appropriate nutrition and sleep requirements
• •Don't hesitate to ask about behavioural or developmental concerns
• •Give medications exactly as prescribed — complete the full course
• •Monitor symptoms and note any changes or new concerns
• •Follow dietary advice and track eating habits
• •Schedule the next vaccination or follow-up visit
• •Red flags: high fever, refusal to eat/drink, unusual lethargy, rash, or difficulty breathing

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

• •Is my child's growth and development on track for their age?
• •Are my child's vaccinations up to date?
• •What is my child's ideal weight and height for their age?
• •When should I be concerned about a fever vs. letting it run its course?
• •What foods should I include for better growth and immunity?
• •How much screen time is safe for my child's age?
• •Should my child take any vitamin or iron supplements?
• •Is this a viral infection or does it need antibiotics?

When to See a Specialist

A Pediatrician specializes in the health and medical care of infants, children, and adolescents (0-18 years). Regular pediatric visits are essential for monitoring growth, development, and vaccination schedules.

• •Fever above 100.4°F (38°C) in infants under 3 months
• •Persistent fever for more than 3 days in older children
• •Difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, or wheezing
• •Refusing to eat or drink for more than 24 hours
• •Unusual rash, skin infection, or allergic reaction
• •Delayed milestones — not walking by 18 months, not speaking by 2 years
• •Frequent ear infections, tonsillitis, or respiratory infections
• •Behavioural concerns — hyperactivity, poor concentration, social withdrawal

Seek emergency care immediately if your child has a seizure, becomes unconscious, has difficulty breathing, shows signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, no urination for 6+ hours), or ingests a harmful substance.