John M. Young, MD

Pediatrician In Amarillo, Texas

Best of Amarillo - Pediatrician

Pediatrician

Allergy Prevention And Treatment For Your Baby

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Those who suffer from allergies are accustomed to checking the pollen count and grabbing tissues before they leave their home. Adults with allergies do not often encounter problems because they are able to control their symptoms. Babies can also have allergies, but they are unable to cope with their symptoms like adults.

If one or both parents have allergies, a baby will be at increased risk of developing their own allergies within the first year of age. If you have allergies, your baby can develop allergies that are different from yours. Children can also get allergies even if both parents have none. It is important for parents to know why their children may have allergies, as well as how to prevent and treat their symptoms.

Nasal allergies

Nasal allergies are often associated with a constantly runny nose in adults and children. Other common signs of this type of allergy are red, itchy eyes and clear mucus. Children will not usually develop outdoor allergies, like those caused by pollen or ragweed, until they are three years old. However, babies can be allergic to dust mites, pet dander, and mold.

You can begin preventing your baby’s allergies by first paying attention to what may trigger them. Once you have found the source, begin eliminating it from your household. If your child is allergic to mold or dust mites, clean your house regularly and thoroughly. This includes washing all fabric materials and cleaning in hard to reach places. If pet dander is causing the allergic reactions, be sure to remove as much hair as possible from all surfaces.

Allergy treatment options for nasal allergies include creating a space where no pets are allowed for your baby to spend most of their time. You should also prevent pets from entering your baby’s bedroom. If mold or dust is an issue, be sure to follow precautionary steps to treat the allergy symptoms. Finally, if these measures do not work, your pediatrician may recommend medication for allergy treatment.

Food allergies

Many children are allergic to peanuts, but there are other foods that cause reactions, including milk, eggs, fish, wheat, and soy. Typically, food allergies are not noticed in babies until they begin to eat solid foods. Be careful when introducing your baby to new foods and pay attention to any reactions they may have, Food allergies can cause small reactions like sores around the mouth or dangerous reactions like closing of the throat.

Although you may not be able to prevent your child from having allergic reactions to food, you can take preventative steps. Introducing new food types slowly and carefully is the best way to see if your baby has a food allergy. You can also breastfeed your baby to possibly help delay or even prevent food allergies from occurring.

Treating food allergies can be easier than treating nasal allergies. First, take your baby to the pediatrician to get allergy testing. If a food allergy is identified, immediately eliminate the allergen from your child’s diet. Other allergy treatments that you can use will depend upon the severity of your child’s allergy and their age. Medications can be used to treat food allergy symptoms that are both slight and severe.

Childhood eczema

Eczema is considered to be one of the first signs that your baby will develop allergies. This condition causes red, itchy spots on the skin that can sometimes keep your baby awake at night. Fortunately, childhood eczema often diminishes as your child gets older.

Preventing eczema can be as simple as eliminating perfumed products from your household. Choose products labeled as “fragrance-free” rather than those labeled “unscented,” as these typically contain perfumes that mask other smells.

Allergy treatment for eczema includes bathing your baby every day. Use mild hygiene products that are fragrance-free and pat-dry your baby after their bath. Then, to keep their skin hydrated, apply a gentle moisturizing ointment or cream. You can use an oatmeal bath to treat the symptoms of eczema, but this will not remove the bacteria that cause the condition. If these treatment methods do not work, schedule an appointment for allergy testing with your pediatrician. A professional can offer advice and medical treatments to help with the symptoms and causes of eczema.

Finding the best pediatrician for your child

If you suspect your child has allergies, finding the right pediatrician with experience in allergy testing and treatment 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.

6 Questions To Ask Before Choosing A Pediatrician

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When searching for a pediatrician, it is best to start by asking your friends and family who they have used. These are the people that know you best, so they should be able to help you find a doctor that will fit your unique needs. Another way to look for a pediatrician is to ask your obstetrician or call hospitals and local county medical societies.

Once you have created a list of pediatricians, you can begin visiting with them and conducting interviews to see which one you will choose. The following is a list of questions that you should ask each pediatrician so you can choose the best one for you and your child.

How soon will you see my baby after birth?

You should ask each pediatrician how soon they can see your baby after delivery and if you can be present during the newborn exam. Most hospitals will ask for the name and phone number of your pediatrician before you give birth, usually when you are admitted. After your baby is born, your pediatrician will be contacted. If there were complications during your birth or delivery, a doctor on staff may see your baby before your actual pediatrician. If your baby’s doctor is able to be at the hospital within the first 24 hours after birth, they can perform the newborn examination instead.

When should my baby have their next exams?

No matter how long you are in the hospital after giving birth, you will most likely speak with your pediatrician multiple times, even every day. This will allow the pediatrician to determine that no surprise medical issues have occurred and given you the chance to ask additional questions. You should also ask when your baby will have their first exam at the pediatrician’s office before you are discharged.

How often will my baby get checkups?

It has been recommended that your baby see the pediatrician 48 to 72 hours after being released from the hospital, especially if they are breastfed. Doing this allows the doctor to verify your baby is healthy and eating properly. You should ask if each pediatrician will adhere to the recommendations set forth by the American Academy of Pediatrics regarding appointment frequency. If they do not follow these guidelines, make a note regarding why so you can review it later.

When are you available to speak with me?

One of the most important questions you should ask every pediatrician is when they will be available by phone and email. Some will be available by phone at certain times of the day, while others will be able to return phone calls at various times. If the pediatrician is not available to take your call, ask what sort of training their phone staff has gone through. Some pediatricians prefer to communicate with parents through email. Although this may seem unconventional, it gives you the chance to speak with them more often.

Pediatricians sometimes work in a group practice. This means that if the one you have chosen is unavailable, another doctor may be able to see your child. When you are searching for a pediatrician, ask if they work with other doctors and if you can meet them as well. Knowing everyone involved in your child’s care is important for their safety and your peace of mind.

If the pediatrician works alone, ask who covers their office while they are unavailable. The answering service will most likely refer you to another doctor in the event your chosen pediatrician is unavailable. You should know the names and phone numbers of these professionals beforehand.

What happens if there is an after-hours concern or emergency?

When you are searching for a pediatrician, you should ask each one about after-hours and emergency communication. Sometimes pediatricians will cover their own emergency calls, while others will refer you to an answering service and require you to visit a hospital. This can be a better option if your child is in serious danger. However, sometimes it is best to see your pediatrician in their own office.

What are the costs of care at your practice?

It is important to ask each pediatrician on your list about their costs. Common costs and fees include those associated with routine appointments, emergency calls, and after-hours visits. You should also be familiar with how the pediatricians will work with your insurance company, so you can be prepared for each charge.

After you have conducted your interviews and recorded the pediatrician’s answers, you should take some time to make your choice. It is important that you trust your pediatrician and their entire staff, as well as their policies and attitude.

If you are searching for a reliable, experienced, and caring pediatrician, contact Dr. John M. Young, M.D. Pediatrics today. Dr. John Young and his team are committed to providing the best 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 office in person at 1500 S. Coulter St. Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas to learn more about our services.

What To Expect At A Well-Baby Exam

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Well-baby exams are an important way to check on your baby’s growth and development. These visits also offer you an opportunity to develop a relationship with your child’s pediatrician. The pediatrician might recommend your first well-baby exam to be scheduled for five days after birth. Additional exams will be scheduled every few weeks or months for the first year of your child’s life. The following are some of the things you should expect to be on the agenda during a well-baby exam.

Your baby’s measurements

The well-baby exam will likely begin with measurements. You will need to undress your baby so they can be accurately weighed on a scale. Your child will also be placed on a flat surface to measure their length and their head circumference. These measurements will be placed on a growth chart to determine your child’s growth curve. This practice is done to determine if your baby is growing normally.

Head-to-toe physical exam

You should expect your pediatrician to conduct a thorough physical exam during the visit. The doctor will inspect your child’s head, ears, eyes, mouth, skin, heart, lungs, abdomen, legs, and genitalia. The doctor will check the soft spots on your baby’s head as well to ensure they are not abnormal. The pediatrician will then check for fluid or infection in your baby’s ears.

The mouth examination is another area of importance. Your pediatrician will look inside your child’s mouth to check for signs of oral thrush. As your baby grows, the pediatrician may ask if they are drooling or chewing more than usual. These are typically signs of teething. The doctor will also listen to your baby’s heart and lungs to make sure everything is clear. Finally, your pediatrician will inspect your baby’s abdomen and genitalia for lumps, tenderness, or signs of infection.

Your baby’s development

Your pediatrician will discuss several things with you related to your baby’s development at the well-baby exam. Be prepared to answer questions about your baby’s motor skills and development. The doctor may ask about whether or not your child can roll over, sit with support, or pull themselves into a standing position. These questions will help your pediatrician gauge whether or not your baby is developing at a relatively normal pace.

Professional pediatrics in Amarillo, Texas

Well-baby exams are a great opportunity to ask questions about anything that may be worrying you. If you are a new parent, it might be hard to tell what is normal for your child and what is not. Frequent well-baby exams will give you peace of mind as your child grows and develops.

Dr. John Young and his team are committed to providing the best 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 office in person at 1500 S. Coulter St. Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas to learn more about our services.

3 Ways To Manage Your Child’s Springtime Allergy Symptoms

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Springtime ushers in warm weather and blossoming flowers and trees. Despite the lovely weather, springtime allergies affect many people. Heavy amounts of pollen cause many people to suffer from stuffy or runny noses and watery eyes. Children can become frustrated because even though the weather changes and the daylight hours extend, they are held back due to their allergies. Here are a few steps you can take to help alleviate your child’s springtime allergy symptoms.

Use allergy prevention techniques

Prevention is the best way to avoid pollen and dust allergies. Have your child wear sunglasses to prevent itchy, watery eyes. Another option is to have your child wear clothing made of synthetic fibers like nylon, polyester, and spandex. If your child has spent time playing outside, have them take a shower to wash off anything they picked up outdoors that could trigger an allergy.

Administer allergy medication early

Your pediatrician may prescribe antihistamines in order to manage your child’s allergy symptoms. Some of these medications are short-acting, while some are on a time-release that lasts up to 24 hours. It is best to begin administering allergy medication to your child before springtime. Administering in advance will give the medication time to start working and reduce the chance of your child experiencing discomfort.

A nasal spray or eye drops are also great options for allergy relief. If allergy symptoms persist, your child may need allergy testing. Discuss testing and treatment options with your pediatrician. Your child may be able to find relief from springtime allergy symptoms through prescription medication or allergy shots.

Shut windows and doors

It can be tempting to leave your doors and windows open during springtime. However, keeping the doors and windows shut will prevent outdoor allergy triggers from affecting your children. You want to minimize the amount of pollen in your home and preventing allergens from entering in the first place is the best option.

Professional pediatrics in Amarillo, Texas

If your child suffers from allergies, finding an experienced pediatrician is the best way to help. 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.

What Parents Should Know About Pediatric Allergies

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Children that have allergies deal with hypersensitivity to one or more substances that would be harmless to most people. When a substance is introduced to the lungs, nose, mouth, or skin, they develop an allergic response. About 15 to 20 percent of all children deal with allergic reactions.

Allergies cause illness and missed school days for many children. Studies have shown that allergies are most common in boys under age 10. Girls between 10 and 20 years of age are also more likely to deal with allergies. If you think your child may be dealing with allergies, it is important to understand what is causing them and how to treat the condition.

Symptoms of allergies

Allergic reactions can occur on nearly any part of the body. The location of the allergic reaction will determine the symptoms produced by the allergen. If the reaction is in the nose, symptoms may include sneezing, nasal itching, runny nose, or stuffiness. Allergic reactions in the eye include symptoms like redness, swelling, tearing, and itching. Those experiencing allergies in the bronchial tubes and lungs may suffer from asthmatic symptoms like wheezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing. Reactions on the skin can cause rashes like hives and eczema.

Allergic reactions that occur in the eyes, nose, or bronchial tubes are typically caused by airborne allergies. Airborne allergies may be caused by pollen, mold, dust mites, or animal dander. Reactions involving the skin or digestive tract could be caused by foods. In some instances, a rash can also be caused by an airborne allergen. Sudden asthmatic symptoms, like wheezing, can be triggered by certain foods. Speaking with a pediatrician and having allergy testing done can help isolate the cause of specific allergic reactions.

What causes allergies in children?

Children are not always born with allergies, but they have the capacity to develop them. Also, some children have an inherited predisposition for allergy development. A child can become allergic to something after repeated exposure to an allergen, although some allergies can form after only one exposure.

Children with a tendency to develop allergic reactions may deal with milk allergies shortly after birth and allergies to pet dander at a young age. These children may experience additional allergic reactions as they encounter new things in their environment. Many allergies are life-long, although some may be lost over time. It is important to see a pediatrician if your child becomes allergic to something new, or suddenly loses an allergy.

Treatment for pediatric allergies

The best treatment for alleviating allergies in children is eliminating whatever allergen is causing the issue. Simply removing the allergen can eliminate symptoms. If avoidance fails to alleviate pediatric allergy symptoms, medication may be used to help. Your pediatrician can prescribe a long-lasting antihistamine, which is generally effective. Some children may need allergy shots or vaccines to keep their symptoms under control as well.

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.

3 Tips For Preparing Your Child For A Doctor’s Visit

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Children may react in fear if they hear they have to visit with a doctor. Some children are afraid the visit means they will get a shot or a painful procedure. The best thing you can do as a parent is to educate your child and calm them before they go to a pediatrician. Here are a few of the many things you can do to make a visit to the doctor easier for yourself, your child, and the medical staff.

Be honest with your child

Walk your child through what will happen during their visit. If the child needs to get a shot, like an immunization or blood test, explain that it will only hurt for a moment. Many children fear needles, but they can cope if they understand what a shot is meant to do. Your child can become anxious if they do not know what to expect. It is best for everyone involved if you explain all aspects of their doctor’s office visit before you arrive.

Play with a doctor’s playset

Some young children can benefit from playing with doctor related toys like fake stethoscope. This play will give your child a better understanding of medical checkups and procedures, and help them cope effectively. Take turns being the doctor or the nurse. You can use stuffed animals as patients. Ask your child questions like, “Why do you think your patient needs a shot?” By listening to your child, you will get a better idea of what they think about a doctor’s visit and clear up any misconceptions.

Read books about doctors

Reading children’s books about going to the doctor can help your child prepare for their visit. Seeing the pediatrician can be difficult for a child, as they may associate it with unfamiliar people, loss of control, or pain. Reading a children’s book about visiting the doctor is an enjoyable way for you to show your child that they will be safe at the doctor’s office. You may want to make reading books about the doctor and dentist a normal routine. This way, your child will have an appreciation and understanding of doctors as they grow older.

Professional pediatrics in Amarillo, Texas

Dr. John Young and his team are committed to providing the best 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 office in person at 1500 S. Coulter St. Suite #3 in Amarillo, Texas to learn more about our services.

Christmas 2016 Schedule

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Merry Christmas!

Dr. Young’s office hours of business this holiday season:

 

  • Friday, December 23th – Normal hours (8:30 am – 5:00 pm)
  • Saturday, December 24th – Closed
  • Sunday, December 25th – Closed  
  • Monday, December 26th – Normal Hours (8:30 am – 5:00 pm)

How A Pediatrician Evaluates The Growth Of Your Child

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As a new parent, it is important for you to observe your child’s physical growth and behavior. You may attempt to track your child’s growth at home using some of the same techniques that a pediatrician would use in an office. If he or she is content, curious, active, alert, and eating well, then you most likely have a healthy and well-developing child.

Keeping track of growth charts at home and weighing your child frequently is not actually necessary unless recommended by your pediatrician. However, letting the pediatrician’s medical staff complete their job by taking and assessing detailed measurements and observations at regularly scheduled appointments is highly recommended. The following will discuss the measuring and physical exam processes, and what to expect at your next visit to the pediatrician.

Measuring height and weight to evaluate growth

When the pediatrician enters the examination room, they will interact with your child to see that he or she is alert and responsive. Then, the professional will weigh and measure your child’s height. This information will be recorded on a graph that will show the percentile that your child fits into. For example, your child’s height and weight may show that they are in the 70th percentile. This means that your child weighs more and measures taller than 70 percent of the children in his or her age group.

Some parents like to ask their pediatrician about how tall their child will be when they are an adult. There are so many factors that will influence this outcome that some professionals do not feel comfortable giving a definite answer to this question. Some people think the child’s height will be influenced by the average height of their parents. Others mention folk wisdom that states that a child will be twice their height as measured at the end of their second year. However, a child may be taller or shorter than these estimates.

Discussing a physical exam to help evaluate growth

After taking height and weight measurements, the pediatrician may start a physical exam of the joints, skin, eyes, ears, and other major areas of the body. The pediatrician may use tools to look into the child’s eyes and ears. The stethoscope may be used to listen to breathing and heartbeats. They may also gently press on the child’s abdomen to check internal organs.

It may be helpful for you to bring along a favorite doll or stuffed toy to the appointment. The pediatrician can use the toy to show the child how the exam will go. This can get rid of any worries that you or your child may have about the physical exam. The pediatrician should begin a discussion with you about your child’s motor skills, speech, and eating habits and address any questions you have. Safety tips or other suggestions may also be given to you by the pediatrician or their staff.

What to expect from Dr. John Young and his staff

Dr. John Young is a pediatrician located in the Amarillo area who strives to provide the best service possible for children and their parents. We provide the highest quality care and want both you and your child to have a positive experience at our office. Please give us a call 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, Texas.

Flu Vaccine Update

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We have received our first shipment of influenza vaccine.  Unfortunately, there will be no FluMist available this year — due to concerns that it was not effective last year, the manufacturer has suspended production.

Visit the CDC website (CDC 2016-2017 Flu Season) to gain further information on why the FluMist is unavailable and how you can protect your child from the virus this flu season.

We will have our first influenza clinic on October 1st, 2016.  Please call the office to schedule a specific time to come to the office.  We will have more weekend days, during the month of October, but they have not yet been scheduled.  It is also possible to have influenza vaccination done on many office visits, including those for well checkups, injuries, and viral infections.

– Dr. Young