John M. Young, MD

Pediatrician In Amarillo, Texas

Best of Amarillo - Pediatrician

Vaccinations

4 Common Childhood Illnesses A Pediatrician Can Help Treat

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There are many illnesses that your child may face as they grow up. A pediatrician can help with identifying and treating these issues. They include chickenpox, colds/coughs, infections, fevers and high temperatures, food allergies, and whooping cough.

Chickenpox

Although this illness typically happens in childhood, it can be contracted at any age. It is usually mild but can be dangerous in certain conditions, so it should be taken seriously. There are no specific treatments, but fever reducers and creams can be used to help with the symptoms. The incubation period is between 10 to 21 days. Your child will be contagious 2 days before symptoms show to around 5 days after the scabs become dry.

Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious disease that can cause red rashes over the entire body. These turn into blisters filled with fluid that will harden into scabs. Other symptoms of this illness include the following.

  • Fever
  • Itchiness
  • Irritability
  • Inflammation

Serious side effects can happen to your child, including pneumonia, dehydration, bacterial skin infections, and bleeding issues. Pregnant women should be especially careful to avoid others with chickenpox, as it can cause fetal malformations and other serious problems.

Coughs, colds, and infections

Coughs, colds, and infections are common among children and aren’t always serious. There are similarities and differences between these issues.

Coughs

Coughs are often associated with a cold, but this virus isn’t the only thing that results in coughing. Usually, a cough will resolve on its own. As long as your child is eating, drinking, and breathing properly, you don’t have to worry too much. If your child is wheezing or their cough will not go away, you should contact a pediatrician. Other conditions that can result in coughing include whooping cough, pneumonia, asthma, and allergies. Signs of more serious conditions including the following.

  • Coughing throughout the night
  • Discomfort
  • Coughing for longer than 2 weeks
  • High fever
  • Skin color changes to blue or pale

If your child is not breathing normally, you should consult a pediatrician immediately and if they can’t breathe, call 911.

Colds

Because there are so many different cold viruses, your child may get a few colds every year. Your child should build up an immunity to colds as they age. If they get a cold, it will usually subside within 5 to 7 days. Be sure to keep your child hydrated and avoid nasal decongestants. Ask your pediatrician about fever and pain reducers, as well as saline nose drops.

Infections

These can come from a variety of sources and some are highly contagious. Common infections in babies and children include ear infections, strep throat, tetanus, and skin infections. Some infections can be treated with antibiotics or other medications. Others will just need to heal on their own or can be prevented with immunizations. Speak with your pediatrician to learn more about infections to look out for.

Whooping cough

This bacterial infection, also known as pertussis, is a serious condition that affects babies and young children. It is highly contagious and can be spread from adults to children. Whooping cough usually starts with mild cold-like symptoms, progress into severe coughing fits with wheezing, and then clear up. Here are some things every parent or parent-to-be should know about pertussis.

  • A vaccination that helps prevent whooping cough (the DTaP immunization) can be given to adults before a baby is due.
  • If someone comes into contact with pertussis, they can be given antibiotics to help prevent spreading it.
  • Symptoms begin to show 1 to 2 weeks after exposure.
  • The condition lasts between 6 and 10 weeks if no serious complications occur.
  • Common symptoms include mild fever, forceful coughing fits, wheezing, vomiting, and pauses in breathing.
  • Dangerous symptoms include bleeding or inflammation in the brain that can result in confusion, brain damage, and seizures.
  • Treatment includes antibiotics or hospitalization in serious cases.

Whooping cough has been worse in the past, but it is still a problem in the United States and around the world. There is a vaccination that can be given to children that helps stop the spread of the virus. If you suspect your child has whooping cough, visit a pediatrician as soon as possible.

Allergies

Pediatric allergies are common in children and include food allergies, skin allergies, and seasonal allergies.

Food allergies are more likely to develop in babies if there is a family history of eczema, hay fever, food allergies, or asthma. If you slowly introduce different foods into your child’s diet, it may help them build up an immunity to certain foods. Also, if they already have a food allergy, it will help you identify the cause more easily.

Seasonal allergies often show in the spring, summer, and fall and can be caused by a number of things. Pollen and grass are typical allergens, as are dust and dirt. Other allergies can be triggered by candles, perfumes, chlorine in pools, and mold.

Skin allergies are also common in children and can be caused by a number of factors. You may see hives, eczema, and rashes if your child comes into contact with an allergen.

Seeing a pediatrician in Amarillo, Texas

If your child is showing signs of allergies, whooping cough, infections, colds, or chickenpox, a pediatrician can help diagnose and treat the symptoms. Dr. John Young and his Team are here to help you keep your child healthy. You can reach us at (806) 354-0404 ext. 3330 or Contact Us by email for more information about Our Services. You can also visit us at 1500 S Coulter St. Suite #3 in Amarillo to speak with our staff.

What You Should Know About Your Child’s First Vaccines

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Diseases have decreased substantially since the introduction of vaccines. The threat of disease has not been entirely eliminated, but thanks to vaccines, occurrences are much less frequent. One reason the risk remains is that not all parents vaccinate their children. When fewer babies receive their vaccines, more children can become sick. The following are seven diseases parents can help reduce by their having children vaccinated.

Pertussis

Pertussis, also known as “whooping cough”, is an infection of your child’s respiratory tract and is highly contagious. This disease is severe for babies, toddlers, teens, and even adults, but is entirely preventable with a vaccine. Once you’ve been exposed to Pertussis (and are not vaccinated), you can expect symptoms to develop within five to ten days.

Symptoms begin with a runny nose, low fever, and mild cough. Infants with the disease may experience pauses in their breathing patterns. These symptoms can easily be mistaken for the beginnings of the common cold. Over a short time, the cough becomes more severe and sounds like a deep and harsh “whoop” that can lead to vomiting. If your child contracts Pertussis, the cough could become severe enough to cause exhaustion. This disease can lead to pneumonia, brain damage, seizures, or even death. With the DTaP vaccine, you can prevent your child from contracting this dangerous illness.

Polio

Polio is a severe disease that can lead to paralysis. This virus may be transmitted by water and then spread from person to person. Polio attacks the nervous system and once contracted, it cannot be cured. Polio has not come from the United States since 1979, but it was brought into the US in 1993 by someone who was not vaccinated. It only takes one person with polio to bring this disease back. After the vaccine was created in the 1950s, polio cases have mostly been eliminated. The only way to continue keeping Polio out of the country is to get the vaccine.

Diphtheria

Diphtheria causes inflammation of the mucous membranes and is considered highly contagious. This disease can hinder your child’s breathing and ability to swallow. The disease can also cause nerve damage or fatally damage to your child’s heart. The DTaP vaccine is able to prevent your child from catching this potentially fatal disease.

Haemophilus influenzae b (Hib)

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is another disease your child is at risk of without a vaccine. It can cause lifelong disability and in some cases even death. This disease is caused by bacteria and is especially dangerous for children under the age of five. Meningitis is the most common disease caused by Hib. It can cover your child’s spinal cord and brain, causing severe damage. Symptoms of meningitis include confusion, high fever, pain from bright lights, poor appetite, vomiting, reduced alertness, a stiff neck, and headaches. The Hib vaccine is the best option to prevent this disease.

Tetanus

Your child’s best defense against this infection is to receive the DTaP vaccine. Tetanus is a severe infection caused by bacterium that can affect your child’s nervous system and brain. This infection can cause stiffness in the muscles, serious breathing problems, and muscle spasms, and even become fatal.

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B infects the liver and often only affects adults for a short time before they recover. This disease can sometimes occur without symptoms and when they do appear, they resemble the flu. It can lead to more serious conditions such as liver damage or even liver cancer. Hepatitis B is a virus that spreads through blood contact and body fluids. A vaccine is necessary to prevent the risk of contracting this disease.

Pneumococcal disease

The pneumococcal disease, also called pneumococcus, is an infection caused by bacterium. This disease can result in an infection of the blood, infection of the middle ear, bacterial meningitis, or pneumonia. Invasive pneumococcal can cause shock and has a risk of death. It can also lead to meningitis or pneumonia, which inflames one or both lungs. Pneumococcus is one of the biggest causes of pneumonia. A vaccine against this disease is the only way to prevent contracting these severe health risks.

Vaccine safety

Some children should not be given vaccines, like those that are mild to severely sick at the time of vaccination. Children who have shown signs of allergies to vaccines in the past, or who are allergic to substances in any vaccine, should not be given certain shots.

Speak with your pediatrician before your child receives their DTaP vaccine and ask about reactions to ensure your child will not have one. The doctor should be able to tell you the risks involved with vaccines, how to spot serious reactions, and what to do if your child is allergic to a vaccine.

Vaccinations in Amarillo, Texas

Dr. John M. Young and his team are 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 learn more about vaccinations and to schedule an appointment with us. You can also visit us in person at 1500 S. Coulter St. Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas to learn more about our Services, including recommended and required Vaccines.

Understanding Vaccines For Your Teenage Or College-Age Child

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Teenage and college-age children have usually had several vaccines by this time in their lives. You are probably still not comfortable watching them get more, even though you have experienced vaccinations with them before. If your teen had no negative reaction from past vaccines, they are unlikely to have them in current and future vaccinations. If they did have a negative reaction to one or more shots, be sure to discuss this with their doctor before they receive any more. It is important to show your teen that you think getting vaccines is an important thing to do. They follow directions from you and need to see that this course of action is necessary.

Some teens have a tendency to faint after a shot or vaccination. It is recommended that they lie down or sit during the administration of a vaccine. Your doctor or the office staff may keep your teen there for about 15 minutes after the vaccination to make sure everything is okay. Knowing the information listed above can help you prepare your teenager or college-age child for their vaccines. The following can also help you know what to do for their next set of shots.

Preparing yourself for your child’s shots

Be sure to bring records of your teen’s past vaccinations with you to the doctor’s office. Usually, vaccines are given after a physical exam and a visit or discussion with the doctor. Ask any questions you have about the vaccines before the office personnel comes in to give the shots. You should also carefully read any paperwork that has been given to you that concerns the vaccines.

Preparing your child for their vaccines

Hopefully, your child does not have any undue stress at this point about vaccines. If your teen is scared of needles, you can try some of the soothing techniques used for younger children. Try blowing on the arm or hand that has been cleaned with rubbing alcohol. Reminding them to relax their muscles may also help.

A child of this age may be more cooperative if you give permission for the vaccine to be administered and then leave the room. Nervous teens may be encouraged to play an electronic game device, listen to music, or have a conversation to help distract them from the vaccination.

After the vaccines have been given

Vaccines might tire your teen out at home after they have been given. The spot on their body where they received the vaccine might be sore as well. If the doctor directed you to give them pain medicine, this might be a good time to give it to them. Try to be understanding and patient if your child is upset. Giving them a cool, moist cloth to hold on the injection site may bring relief. Your teen may be less interested in food over the next 24 hours, so make sure they get plenty of fluids.

Be aware of any reactions that appear after the vaccinations, including rash, unusual behavior, or prolonged fever. If any of these symptoms cause you concern, call the doctor’s office to get information about what to do.

Vaccines that your college-age child might need

Meningococcal vaccines are particularly important for college-age students. This age group has been found to be particularly vulnerable to this illness. A booster dose of tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis vaccine should also be given to protect against each of these serious illnesses. Some believe that your teen should be caught up with all human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccines for the protection against genital warts, cervical, and other cancers. Check with your doctor before your child goes off to college to make sure they are current on all recommended vaccines.

Travel related vaccinations

If your child plans to travel outside the US for any period of time, they should visit a travel clinic before they leave. This type of clinic advises and administers any vaccines needed for the part of the world where they will be visiting.

Find the best pediatrician for vaccinations in Amarillo, Texas

Vaccines are an important part of your child’s health. Just as you monitor their medicines, nutrition, and sleep, make sure they are protected from preventable diseases through timely vaccinations. Your teen’s pediatrician will advise you in this area and can help prepare your college-age child for vaccinations as well.

Dr. John M. Young and his team are 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 a vaccination 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 recommended and required vaccinations.

How To Prepare Your Child For Their Vaccinations

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It is possible to have an easier and less stressful visit to a healthcare professional when your child needs vaccinations. Depending on your child’s age, there are a few simple things you can do to achieve a better outcome before, during, and after the appointment. These include preparing before the appointment and comforting them during the visit.

Prepare before your child’s appointment

You and your child will experience less stress if you come prepared for an appointment. Make sure to read all paperwork your health care provider has given you. Write down any questions you have and take them to the appointment. You should be aware of the recommended schedule for childhood immunizations and local school requirements as well. Review vaccination information statements, which can be found at the pediatrician’s office. Also, don’t forget to bring your child’s personal immunization record to the healthcare provider after you have made sure that it is current. This tells the pediatrician which vaccinations your child has already received.

You can be prepared to comfort your child by bringing along a favorite toy, blanket, or book. If your child has a mild illness, check with your doctor to see if there is any reason why they should avoid the shot.

It is important for you to be honest with your child and tell them that vaccinations will give them a little sting or pinching feeling. Tell them that this will not last for long and ask other family members to support your child. You should also avoid making threats about shots or telling scary stories about them. Remember to tell your child about the health benefits of getting vaccinations as well.

Handing vaccinations with babies or young children

If you have a baby or small child, try distracting them by cuddling, talking softly to them, or singing. Let them know everything is okay and make sure to make eye contact with them. You can also comfort them with a familiar object from home. If possible, hold your child on your lap and be very supportive once your child has had their shot. Swaddle babies, provide skin to skin contact, offer a sweet drink like juice, or breastfeed to show them everything is normal.

Giving vaccinations to older children

You can help an older child handle the slight pain from a shot by taking deep breaths with them. Distractions are helpful, such as pointing out interesting things in the room or telling a story. You should never scold your child if they cry or shame them for not being brave. It is possible, and common, for an adolescent to faint after their vaccination. Your child should stay in a sitting position for 15 minutes after the shot to prevent this from happening. You may want to ask your healthcare provider about giving your child a pain reliever after the vaccination or advice about further comforting them.

What to expect after vaccinations are administered

It is possible for your child to have a small reaction after the shot, such as fever, pain at the injection site, or a rash. These are normal side effects that can be easily minimized. You can review the vaccine literature given to you by the healthcare provider to be aware of side effects. A cool, wet cloth provides comfort and relief from soreness, swelling, or redness. Non-aspirin pain reliever and a cool sponge bath can bring down a fever.

Make sure your child gets enough water to drink after the shot. You should also know that they may not have a normal appetite for up to 24 hours after the vaccine is given. Pay special attention to your child for a few days after their visit and contact the doctor if something seems wrong.

Where to go for vaccinations and how to pay for them

Your health insurance will most likely pay for your child’s vaccinations. However, you may want to call the customer service department to verify the pediatrician of your choice is covered by your insurance. If you do not have insurance or your plan does not cover the shots, ask your pediatrician about other options. Another place you could check is the local health department. They will be able to tell you if there are any public health clinics in your area that give eligible people free vaccines.

Find the best pediatrician for vaccinations in Amarillo, Texas

If your child is in need of vaccinations, you should contact a pediatrician you can trust. 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 recommended and required vaccinations.

Trumenba Meningococcal Vaccine

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Meningococcal bacteria can cause an infection which often includes meningitis and damage throughout the body.  Although meningococcal infections are rare, they can be very damaging and deadly.  Serotypes of meningococcus which infect children and adolescents include A, B, C, W, and Y.  The meningococcal vaccine routinely given in our office, Menactra, protects against serotypes A, C, W, and Y.  A newer vaccine available in our office, Trumenba, protects against serotype B.  Here is the CDC discussion on meningococcal vaccines:

http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd-vac/mening/

Menactra is recommended by the CDC for all adolescents, and it is required for admission by colleges and universities.  Trumenba is only recommended by the CDC for adolescents with specific immunodeficiencies, specific hematologic abnormalities, and a non-functioning or absent spleen.  However, it has been found by the FDA to be both safe and effective.  Adding Trumenba to Menactra would give the most complete protection possible for your adolescent.  Unfortunately, since it is not recommended for all adolescents by the CDC, it is not routinely covered by insurance.  Here is a list of the 5 college outbreaks of Meningococcal B infection since 2013:

http://www.nmaus.org/disease-prevention-information/serogroup-b-meningococcal-disease/outbreaks/

If you are interested in the vaccine, check with your insurance.  If it is not covered and you want your adolescent immunized, please call the office to learn the cost of administration.  Trumenba is administered in a 3 dose series at 0, 2, and 6 months.

Dr. Young