John M. Young, MD

Pediatrician In Amarillo, Texas

Best of Amarillo - Pediatrician

Crispin Borunda

What is Immunotherapy?

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Girl with flu blowing nose

Allergen immunotherapy is a form of treatment aimed at decreasing your sensitivity to allergens, by introducing increasing amounts of the allergen to a patient over several months. We have an 85-95% efficacy rate with children and allergen immunotherapy has been shown to prevent the development of asthma.

Why Immunotherapy?

It is safe, effective, and convenient. We offer 10-4 treatment. You will be allowed to do these injections at the convenience of your home and only be required to visit our office 10 times the first year and 4 times the subsequent years vs 1 week in-office injections.

Does my insurance cover allergy testing and immunotherapy?

Yes, most insurance plans cover allergy testing and immunotherapy. We will verify insurance benefits prior to testing.

Top Allergens for September

Fill out our questionnaire or call Crispin Borundaat (806) 350-8958 ext 316 or (806) 567-1915 to inquire for more information.

Best of Amarillo 2020 Voting Has Begun!

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We would like to thank all of our friends, family, and customers who nominated us for the Best of Amarillo 2020. We are humbled by the community’s support for our locally owned business!

Here is a direct link to vote for Dr. John Young for Best of Amarillo 2020 for the best pediatrician.

You can vote daily between August 2nd and August 23rd. Participants have a chance to win $250.00 while honoring their favorite businesses. 

Thank you and please feel free to share and vote daily through August! We hope to have your continued support through the close of voting.  

Every vote counts and we appreciate them all!

Important Facts About Allergy Testing For Children

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Allergy related conditions are so common that they are among the leading chronic disease diagnoses in infants and children. One study has shown that 4 to 6 percent of children have food-related allergies and 15 to 25 percent have hay fever. This study also showed that 8 to 10 percent of children have asthma. Children collectively miss hundreds of thousands of school days each year due to allergies.

It can be stressful for you and your child to identify conditions that may be caused by allergies. The sooner you help your child, the quicker they can get back to enjoying childhood. Medical tests can be frightening for you both, but knowing what to expect the day of the testing will lessen your anxiety. The following facts will help you better understand allergy testing and how you can help your child mentally prepare for a doctor’s visit.

Discovering the reason why your child may need allergy testing

If you notice your child has a symptom that may be caused by an allergy, you should take them to a pediatrician for allergy testing. A doctor will use allergy testing to determine the type of allergy your child has and the treatment needed. Some examples of conditions where it may be helpful to test for allergies include asthma, irritated or inflamed nasal passages, and rashes on the skin.

If your child experiences cold-like symptoms for more than a week, and they happen at the same time every year, they may have allergies. Asthma caused by an allergen indoors may be indicated by coughing and wheezing, especially at night.

The basics of allergy testing

You will need to see an allergist if you suspect your child is suffering from allergies. If your child is found to have one or more allergies, the allergist will consider therapeutic interventions that are appropriate for their condition. These treatments may include medication, avoidance strategies, diet modifications, and allergy shots.

The allergy testing process includes an analysis of your child’s medical history, a family history of asthma or allergies, and a physical exam. The process also includes testing for specific allergens. If your child has an asthma diagnosis, allergy testing can help you understand what is causing the condition and how your child can avoid asthma triggers.

Common allergy testing methods

Immediate and delayed skin tests are useful for detecting many allergies, such as those related to food, penicillin, insect stings, and airborne particles. Intradermal and percutaneous skin tests are immediate tests that are given by scratching the surface of the skin and applying a diluted allergen. These allergy testing methods are considered safe and will provide accurate information. Percutaneous tests are not done on infants younger than six months old, but no other age restrictions apply.

After these tests are given, your child is observed for about 15 minutes for a reaction, which will likely occur as an itchy red bump. The larger the bump, the more intense the allergy.

The patch test is a delayed reaction test used to determine if your child has an allergy to fragrances, certain metals, or rubber. The patch is left on the skin for about 48 hours and needs to be kept dry. The allergist will check for reactions after this time period.

Elimination of diet and blood testing

An allergist may give you instructions for an elimination diet if you suspect that your child may be allergic to certain foods. Items often suspected of causing an allergic reaction include milk, eggs, soy, peanuts, wheat, tree nuts, and shellfish. It may be hard to keep these items out of your child’s diet for a week, but you will get more accurate results if you do. The allergist may give doses of suspected foods in an environment that is controlled to see what kind of reaction your child may have.

If you suspect your child has allergies, finding the right pediatrician with experience in allergy testing is important. The office of Dr. John Young in Amarillo, Texas is committed to making allergy testing as easy as possible for you and for your child. Call us today at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 or Contact Us by email to learn more about our services. You can also visit our office in person at 1500 S. Coulter St., Suite #3 in Amarillo.

A Parent’s Guide To Child Allergy Testing

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Trying to determine the source of your child’s allergic reactions requires a series of tests. Allergy testing can cause some anxiety for parents and their children due to not understanding the process. Once you understand how allergy testing is done, you can help your child feel less nervous. Going to your appointment with knowledge of the process will make you and your child calm and help the appointment go smoothly. Read on to find out how to prepare your child for allergy testing, what to expect during the tests, and how to wait for the results.

Preparing for allergy testing

Skin allergy tests are performed to determine your child’s specific allergic reactions. Percutaneous and intradermal tests are used to introduce possible allergens. The percutaneous test will introduce diluted versions of allergens to the top layer of the skin by either a scratch or a tiny poke. The intradermal test uses a needle to inject the allergens.

About a week before your appointment for allergy testing, you should refrain from giving your child antihistamines. Make sure to discuss which alternatives you have for preventing allergic reactions during this time with your physician. You will also want to talk with your child about the allergy testing. Explain that the tests will help find out what is making them sick and determine how to fix the problem so they can get better.

What to expect during the tests

During the allergy testing, if one of the applied substances causes a reaction, the spot will become itchy and swell, much like a mosquito bite. The area will be measured and then a topical steroid or oral antihistamine will be given to calm the reaction. The doctor will then tell you how to avoid the substances that caused the reaction. Your pediatrician can advise you on how to change daily habits to avoid contact with allergens as well.

The results from the allergy testing are taken from the percutaneous testing. Your child may then need to have the intradermal allergy testing to further understand reactions to antibiotics or venom. If your child is allergic to insect venom, this test will help determine the type of insect they are allergic to. This form of testing involves a needle, so you may need to further coach your child on what to expect.

Waiting for the results of the allergy testing

After the allergy testing, it will take about fifteen minutes before an allergic reaction develops. While you wait for the results, you and your child can put together a puzzle or read a book to help pass the time. It is important to keep your child busy so they don’t become anxious. Allergy testing is rather quick, so it should not be to difficult to keep your child busy.

Allergy blood tests

Blood allergy testing can be performed with only one draw of blood. This test can identify a host of different allergens, including foods. Only having to stick your child once to draw the blood will make the appointment go much smoother.

At John M. Young M.D., Pediatrics, we understand how allergy testing can be stressful. Dr. John Young is committed to making allergy testing as easy as possible for you and for your child. Call our office at 806-354-0404 to schedule an appointment for allergy testing and find out how to solve your child’s allergic reactions. You can also Contact Us via email or visit us in person at 1500 S. Coulter St., Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas to learn more about our services.

How To Choose The Right Pediatrician For Your Newborn

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Having a baby is an exciting yet challenging time. There are so many things to start thinking about and planning for before your baby is even born. From changes in your routine, to feeding and outside care, there are so many decisions to make before that day of arrival. One significant decision is choosing a pediatrician for your newborn. There are six well-baby checks to be scheduled during your child’s first year of life so choosing a good pediatrician is important. It only takes a little research to make the right choice.

When to begin looking for a pediatrician

Some parents choose a pediatrician before they become pregnant. Others do not think about this choice until after they have conceived. It is recommended that if you have not chosen a doctor before you’ve become pregnant, you should have one to care for your child before they are born.

Don’t wait until the eighth month of pregnancy to begin looking for a pediatrician. It is best to start your search before your fourth month. Pediatricians have busy schedules, and you want to ensure the one you choose can schedule your child’s visits. Giving yourself enough time to make a sound decision will get rid of the anxiety of last minute choices.

What kind of doctor should you look for?

Pediatricians have studied and practice healthcare that is focused around infants and children. They are specialists who will focus on your child’s health and have experience working with children and parents.

A family doctor or general practitioner is not a wrong choice, and some people feel more comfortable going to a doctor they are used to working with. If you choose your family doctor, you should make sure he or she is aware of all health issues of your entire family. This includes diseases that have occurred or any genetic problems.

Choose a doctor that you trust and feel comfortable with. One that has the experience and knowledge of working with and caring for children should be your first choice.

How to find the right pediatrician for your newborn

Many organizations will give you names of pediatricians they recommend for your child’s health. Hospitals are a good place to ask for referrals and insurance companies should be able to provide you with names to contact.

Another great source for referrals are other mothers. Mothers that have experience with pediatricians can give their feedback on the skill, knowledge, and level of care provided to their own children. Finding someone who shares your ideas on parenting and your outlook may be able to help you find the right doctor.

How you will know if the pediatrician?

You may look for different things in your child’s pediatrician than others would. To know whether or not you received good referrals, ask a few more questions than just who they would recommend. One good question is how their child responds during visits. If the doctor is patient and appears to enjoy taking care of young children, that’s a good sign.

Important facts to know are whether or not the pediatrician uses the latest medical advances and if he or she welcomes questions. You will also want to know if the office staff is pleasant and what the environment is like inside the doctor’s office. These questions can help you decide if it’s worth scheduling a personal visit to see for yourself. If you are getting more than one referral, these questions will also help you narrow your search in finding the right pediatrician.

Checking the referrals

Once you’ve gathered a list of potential pediatricians you want to see, you will want to stop by their offices. While doing this, make sure their hours and locations are convenient so you can easily make appointments.

When first meeting with the doctor, you will want to ensure they are connected to the hospital you use for medical care. Ask if they will come to the hospital when your child is born. You should also see if they are available to answer questions on the phone should you need medical advice.

Looking for an experienced pediatrician in Amarillo, Texas?

Dr. John Young is an experienced pediatrician in Amarillo who will provide you and your child with the best clinical experience possible. Call today at
(806) 354-0404 to schedule an appointment for your child’s care. You can also Contact Us with any questions you may have. Stop by the office at 1500 S. Coulter St. Suite # 3 to learn more about our Services, including when your newborn should see a doctor.

Seasonal Allergies In Children: Symptoms And Causes

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Whether they are at home, outside playing, or attending school, bad seasonal allergies can disrupt your child’s entire day. As a parent, it is helpful to know about the causes of seasonal allergies so that you can prepare your family and treat allergies. Here is a guide to common allergy triggers and how you can help prevent them.

Spring seasonal allergies

Hay fever season may have you buying several boxes of tissues. Kids and adults alike are miserable with allergies that cause itchy eyes and sneezing. Spring is a difficult season for children in the United States who have an asthma condition (about five million) because of this. Pollen and airborne allergens cause about half of the asthmatic breathing problems. Once this allergy season is gone, your child’s sneezing and wheezing may dissipate.

Limit exposure to tree and grass pollen

Before ten in the morning and on windy days, you should keep your children inside if they suffer from allergies. These times are when pollen counts are at their highest. Turn on the air conditioning and keep all the windows in your house closed. Pollen sticks to shoes, skin, hair, and clothing, so have your children wash up and change clothes when they come inside. Avoid line-drying clothes and linens outside during this time so that they will not collect pollen.

Watch out for dust and mold by deep cleaning

You can get rid of dust and mold during your spring cleaning if you do it properly. Trap allergens with a damp cloth and make sure your vacuum has a HEPA filter. It would be best to do your cleaning when your child is out of the house as well. This is especially true if you generate a lot of dust when you clean light fixtures and takedown window coverings.

Summer seasonal allergies

Air pollution is at its worst on humid and hot days, which can increase a child’s allergies. Watch your children carefully, particularly those with asthma because they can be sensitive to the smog. During the hours of 11 AM to 8 PM, the smog is at its most intense. Limit children’s time outside during these hours and watch the news to determine what allergen levels will be for the day.

Take care of your air conditioning

Proper maintenance is important to your air conditioning system efficiently reducing humidity and filtering outside allergens. Make sure to use a filter with a minimum efficiency reporting value (MERV) of ten or higher. Filters with that rating trap tiny particles of mold, pollen, and dust. Replace the filters every three months or when seasons change. If you have window units, clean them at least once a year and upgrade the filter to a MERV.

Fall seasonal allergies

Ragweed season begins at the same time that your child heads back to school. This pollen is the number one cause of allergies in the fall. Ragweed flowers and pollinates from the middle of August until October, which means for the first two months of school, allergies are high. Pollen levels in the air from this culprit are highest between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM.

Be careful around decorations and fall celebrations

Outings to the pumpkin patch or the apple orchard can be difficult for children with asthma and allergies. These are damp and earthy locations where mold spores thrive. Limit your child’s exposure to decorations like hay bales, straw, piles of leaves, and corn husks because they harbor mold. Have your child change clothes and wash off after an outdoor trip during the fall season.

Indoor swimming pools

Swimming is a great exercise for asthmatics because the humidity is good for their lungs. However, indoor swimming pools can cause asthma attacks due to chlorine accumulation in the air, especially in poorly ventilated areas. Outdoor pools are a safer option if your child has asthma.

Winter seasonal allergies

Although many types of pollen are no longer a threat in winter, chilly air may constrict your child’s airways if they have allergies or asthma. To avoid a cold air asthma attack, have your child wear a neck scarf over their mouth and nose to warm the air they breathe. The warm air can help to relieve asthma symptoms.

Avoid candles, incense, and potpourri

Technically, these are not allergens, but fragrances in some home decor products can trigger an allergic fit of sneezing or inflame the airways of an asthmatic child. Avoid buying incense, candles, potpourri, and air fresheners if your child may be allergic to their scents.

Allergy testing and treatment in Amarillo, Texas

Dr. John Young is a pediatrician in the Amarillo area. He and his team provide the best possible experience for you and your child. For help with your child’s seasonal allergies or asthma, give us a call at (806) 354-0404, ext. 3330. You can also Contact Us by email to learn more about our Services or visit us in person at 1500 S. Coulter Street, Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas.

Pediatric Allergy Testing And Eczema: What You Should Know

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Many parents with children that suffer from eczema feel that an allergy test will provide them with some answers. The belief is that if they can find a cause for the flare-ups, they will be able to prevent them from occurring. However, pediatricians will tell you that not every child with eczema needs to go through allergy tests.

Eczema is often related to food allergies, as tests have shown over 35% of young children with moderate to severe cases also suffer from food allergies. Scientists have still not ruled whether it is the food causing eczema or if eczema is causing the food allergy.

The irritating itch your child suffers from with this skin condition will interrupt their sleep and cause redness and scaly rashes. Finding a cause for these symptoms can typically be done by visiting a pediatrician or dermatologist who can provide answers and relief for your child. The following are a few tips to help you decide if it is time for your child to receive allergy testing.

When to seek the advice of a pediatrician

There are a couple of signs you may notice with your child that should be referred to a pediatrician for advice. One of these signs is seeing a flare-up each time your child eats certain foods. Your pediatrician will be able to perform tests to see if your child has food allergies, so you will know which to remove from their diet.

If you have already consulted a pediatrician and are following a plan for your child’s skin condition, but see no improvements, check with the doctor again. Even if you see a slight improvement after following the plan, you should still speak with your pediatrician about further recovery. There may be alternatives to the plan or adjustments that can be made to receive better results.

Another symptom that should concern you is if your child is not showing any growth. Check with your pediatrician to see if the eczema is having an effect on the normal growth pattern your child should be experiencing.

When allergy testing is not necessary

One of the reasons allergy testing may not be necessary for your child is that removing only one thing from their diet won’t clear the condition. The best eczema treatment is to follow your child’s management plan. This plan should include finding the triggers, avoiding those triggers, using the medication as prescribed, taking baths, and applying moisturizers. Unfortunately, it has not been proven that receiving an allergy shot will help eczema.

When allergy testing should be conducted

If you are noticing flare-ups each time your child eats a particular food, this is a good time to have testing done to check for food allergies. If your child is under five and suffering moderate to severe symptoms of eczema, test them for milk, peanut, egg, soy, and wheat allergies. Other common allergens that may cause eczema flare-ups are dog or cat dander, dry climates, wool, dust mites, certain soaps, pollen, and mold. Allergy testing will show if your child has any reactions to these items.

Will allergy testing help with eczema?

Eczema often causes children to suffer allergic reactions to certain things they touch, eat, and breathe. Allergy testing will identify the items that are causing your child’s body to react. When you identify the allergens, you will be better able to remove or reduce your child’s encounters with them. It will not cure your child, but it can help make life a little more comfortable.

With allergy testing, you will be able to manage your child’s eczema. Pricking or blood tests can be used to test your child for skin, food, and environmental allergies. These tests allow the pediatrician to determine what your child is allergic to specifically, and give you advice on how to handle your child’s condition.

Get expert allergy testing and treatment for your child

If your child suffers from eczema or allergies, finding an experienced pediatrician is the best way to help. Dr. John M. Young is committed to providing the best clinical experience for you and your child. Contact Us by email or call our office at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 to schedule an appointment with us today. You can also visit us in person at 1500 S. Coulter St. Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas to learn more about our services, including allergy testing and treatment.

When Should I Take My Baby To The Pediatrician?

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Even if your newborn baby is healthy, you still need to schedule a visit to their pediatrician. The first two years of your child’s life are critical growing years. This timeframe is when your child’s development takes its most significant leaps. The American Academy of Pediatrics has set well-baby checkups to occur at specific times during your child’s first two years. The following will help you understand when to take your baby to the doctor and what to expect at each visit.

What happens during my baby’s doctor visits?

Your baby’s pediatrician will want to track your child’s development and make sure it is progressing normally. They will want your input during these visits by letting them know how your baby is doing at home. Keep track of when your child starts to sit independently, and the first time they roll over on their own. These are important developmental steps for newborns.

At each exam, your child will be checked from head-to-toe including eyes, mouth, skin, heart, lungs, and ears to ensure they are healthy. The pediatrician will want to keep a close eye on your newborn’s soft spot, otherwise known as a fontanel. This area generally disappears between the 12th and 18th months, when your baby’s skull bones have fully fused together. The shape of your child’s head will also be monitored to make sure it is rounding out properly.

The first visit

The first exam, usually performed in the hospital, is where the pediatrician should look for normal bodily functions in your newborn. These include reflexes, hip stability, alertness, and skin tone. These professionals want to ensure your child is healthy and responding well to their new world.

Exam after leaving the hospital

Three to five days after you bring your newborn home, you should schedule a visit to the doctor. At this visit, the pediatrician will begin using the growth chart to monitor your baby’s growth rate. During this appointment, your newborn will have a metabolic/hemoglobin screening if it wasn’t done at the hospital before you left.

One month exam

The one-month appointment is where all the basic checks are completed. The doctor will perform measurements and do developmental surveillance, as well as do a routine physical exam. There are other tests they may want to perform, including a tuberculosis test. The pediatrician will also provide your child with his or her second dose of hepatitis B vaccine.

Two-month visit

With the two month checkup, the pediatrician will examine your baby’s basic developmental growth and make sure growth patterns are within a normal range. This checkup will be where your child receives many of their immunization shots, so be sure to prepare beforehand.

Fourth-month exam

A physical exam will be conducted and charted to measure how their growth pattern is developing at this stage as well. The second dose of the two-month vaccines will also be delivered during this visit. Another general exam will be done to make sure your baby is still healthy. The pediatrician will also ask questions about your baby meeting certain milestones, like being able to push up and sit without assistance.

Sixth-month exam

The standard growth checks will be done to ensure development is still on track, and the third dose of necessary vaccines will be administered. An oral health test may also be included during this checkup as your child may have already gotten their first tooth.

Ninth month visit

Formal developmental screening may be conducted during this exam. You may be asked to play with your child as well. Playing with your baby will show the pediatrician how he or she moves and behaves and will give insight into their development.

One year visit

This checkup will have your doctor conducting all the standard measurements and administering the final hepatitis B dose. The third treatment of other immunizations will also be given during this visit. Other tests that may be done include a lead screening, a TB test, and possibly even an oral health check. The pediatrician may suggest another visit when your baby turns fifteen months of age for additional vaccines.

Eighteenth-month exam

The eighteen-month appointment has your child going through the same developmental checks as well as an Autism screening. Autism Spectrum Disorder is a group of disorders affecting the developmental skills of a child’s behavior, their social skills, and how well they can communicate. Any immunizations that have not been completed will be done during this visit.

Two-year exam

The procedures followed for the past two years will again be repeated. There may be other tests performed such as a hemoglobin screening or a lead screening. The pediatrician will also be interested in how your child’s mind is growing, so expect questions about their vocabulary and processing skills.

If you have questions regarding your baby’s health, contact the office of Dr. John Young in Amarillo, Texas. Dr. John Young and his team are committed to providing the best clinical experience for you and your child. Call us today at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 or Contact Us by email to learn more about our Services. You can also visit our office in person at 1500 S. Coulter St., Suite #3 in Amarillo.

6 Tips To Help You Communicate With Your Pediatrician

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Pediatricians are extremely busy and their industry continues to grow as many parents become more health-conscious about their children. More and more children are going to daycare facilities or early education programs where they come into contact with illness and disease. This accounts for some of the increased business in many pediatrician offices.

It is important to establish a good relationship with your pediatrician, especially when you visit them frequently. Communicating well with your child’s physician will have a positive impact on the well-being and health of your child. Use the following tips to maintain consistent communication with your pediatrician.

Keep your conversation focused

Before you go to see the pediatrician, you should write down a list of questions and concerns. If there are issues that you need to discuss, use this list to ask your questions shortly after the doctor enters the room. All of your questions may not be evaluated in one visit, so you may be asked to return with a separate appointment to address them all.

Remain realistic

Your doctor will not prescribe medications or drugs if they are not necessary. Often, the pediatrician will want you to observe your child over a number of days to see how symptoms progress. This is often the best solution for your child’s well-being and you should trust your pediatrician’s judgment. However, if you are truly concerned your pediatrician is not providing the best treatment, you should seek a second opinion.

Be honest with the pediatrician

Let your pediatrician know of any feedback you may have regarding your visit to their office. If you feel rushed or have been greeted rudely, you should alert the doctor of these situations. If you are unsure about the medications prescribed, you should always ask for more information.

Use convenient alternatives

You do not always have to run your child to the doctor at the first sign of an illness. Ask your pediatrician if they have a nurse line where you can speak to a qualified professional about health issues you are unsure about. The nurse can relieve your concerns or schedule an appointment if the situation sounds like medical treatment is necessary.

These phone lines can often help you with medication questions, behavioral issues, and minor illnesses. Some doctors will refer you to email any concerns or questions directly to them. Emergency symptoms should be directed to your pediatrician right away such as rash with a fever, persistent vomiting, or diarrhea.

Always be informative

The more information your pediatrician has on your child, the better they can help them stay healthy. Inform your doctor if there have been any major changes in your child’s life. The doctor should know if your child has experienced a death in the family, divorce, or any other major disruption in their normal life pattern. If the pediatrician cannot address specific issues, they will be able to refer you to someone who can.

Understand your pediatrician’s instructions

Make sure you fully understand any directions you have been given by your pediatrician before you leave the office. You should understand all lab test results, how to dispense medication, and whether or not a follow-up appointment is needed. Also, make sure you follow-up with your doctor if the medication is not working or has caused any side effects.

Professional pediatrics in Amarillo, Texas

Dr. John Young is committed to providing the best clinical experience for you and your child. Call our office at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 to schedule an appointment with us today. You can also Contact Us by email or visit our clinic in person at 1500 S. Coulter St. Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas to learn more about our services.

Your Baby’s First Doctor Appointment

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Having a new baby can be as frightening as it is incredible. You want to do everything right and make sure your baby is safe, happy, and healthy. While it is up to you to provide that safe environment and keep your baby happy; a doctor’s advice is needed to make sure they are healthy. New baby checkups are often scheduled within a couple of weeks after birth. The following information will help you know what to expect at your baby’s first doctor appointment.

Who should go with you to the first appointment?

It’s normal to be nervous on the first appointment, but remember this appointment is for the baby and that is where the focus should be. Only you, your baby, and perhaps one other caregiver should go. Too many people can make the room crowded and take some of the doctor’s attention away.

Getting your baby ready for the appointment

Dress your child in simple clothing. The doctor is not interested in those adorable outfits you have received or purchased, they are only interested in checking your child’s health. You do not want to waste time undressing your baby. Plan your diaper bag to include all the normal travel items; extra clothes, diapers, wipes, bottles, and pacifiers.

The waiting time

There is often a waiting time at the doctor’s office where you have to sit among other patients with issues you know nothing about. The other children or parents may have an illness you do not want your child exposed to. If you have arrived with another caregiver, send them in first to start the paperwork. You and your baby can wait in the car or other areas to keep away from the possibility of being exposed to unhealthy germs. Many doctor offices have specific areas for newborns because of this possible exposure. However, if you cannot send someone in ahead of you or there is no separated waiting, keep your baby faced towards the corner with your body as a shield.

The nurses

The nurse normally performs the first part of the exam. She or he will weigh your child to check their weight as well as to measure their limbs to check for height and width. It is also normal for the nurse to measure your child’s head circumference.

The doctor

The main parts of the baby’s first doctor appointment are examining the baby, educating the parents, and answering questions as well as asking a few of their own. Some doctors will ask and answer questions while they perform the exam, others prefer to finish the exam first and then do the question portion. The doctor is going to look into your baby’s eyes, ears, and nose. This pediatrician will also examine your baby’s skin, limbs, and test for responsive and proper reflective actions. The umbilical cord area will be examined and well as a check for hernias or jaundice. A lot is covered during this initial exam. Don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you need to make yourself feel comfortable about your child’s health.

What will the doctor need to know?

Keep track of what you are feeding your child as well as how much they are eating. Also keep track of feeding patterns like; how often, how much, and how long it takes to complete a feeding. You don’t have to keep an actual chart, just have a general idea and if you are buying formula, know the brand and type.

You should also be aware of the diaper changes. Have a general idea to tell the doctor about how many times you change your baby every day and what type of stool consistencies your baby has. By knowing the color and consistency, the doctor will have a better understanding of your child’s digestive system.

Sleeping patterns are important and your doctor may ask you questions regarding how long and how often your baby is sleeping.

Contact John M. Young M.D., Pediatrics today to schedule your baby’s first doctor appointment. Give us a call at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 or Contact Us via email. You can also visit us in person at 1500 S. Coulter St., Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas. Dr. John Young is a pediatrician in the Amarillo area that will provide the best experience possible for parents as well as their children.