If your child has a fever (a temperature of 100.4°F or higher), ensure they stay hydrated and dress them in lightweight clothing. You can administer an appropriate dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen based on their age and weight. NEVER bathe your baby in alcohol to reduce a fever. Monitor their temperature and watch for additional symptoms. If you are worried, the fever persists for more than 48 hours, or if your child has a fever above 104°F, contact our office for further guidance.

For a mild insect bite or sting, clean the area with soap and water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter antihistamines or hydrocortisone cream may help with itching and discomfort. If the bite or sting causes severe swelling, difficulty breathing, or if you notice a large area of redness and warmth, seek medical attention immediately.

For a sprain or strain, follow the R.I.C.E. method: Rest the injured area, Ice it to reduce swelling, Compress with a bandage, and Elevate it above the level of the heart. You can administer over-the-counter pain relievers, such as [an appropriate dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen] based on their age and weight, to help with discomfort. If the pain or swelling does not improve within a few days, or if you notice significant bruising or inability to move the affected area, contact our office.

Clean the wound gently with soap and water, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover it with a clean bandage. Change the bandage daily and keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as increased redness, swelling, or pus. If the wound is deep, does not stop bleeding, or shows signs of infection, please contact our office.

Have your child sit upright and gently pinch their nostrils together while leaning slightly forward. This helps prevent blood from flowing down the back of the throat. Apply a cold compress to the back of the neck or the bridge of the nose. Avoid having your child lie down or tilt their head back. If the nosebleed lasts more than 20 minutes or is frequent, contact our office.

If your child shows signs of mild dehydration, such as dark urine, dry mouth, or slight dizziness, encourage them to drink clear fluids like water or oral rehydration solutions, such as Pedialyte. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks. If symptoms persist or worsen, or if your child shows signs of severe dehydration (e.g., sunken eyes, lethargy), seek medical attention promptly.

For a sore throat, ensure your child stays hydrated and consider giving them warm fluids, such as broth or herbal tea with honey (for children over 1 year old). You can also administer over-the-counter pain relievers, such as [an appropriate dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen] based on their age and weight. If your child has difficulty swallowing, a high fever, or if the sore throat lasts more than a few days, contact our office to rule out strep throat or other infections.

To manage cold symptoms, encourage your child to rest and drink plenty of fluids. Use a cool-mist humidifier in their room to ease congestion, and consider saline nasal drops to relieve a stuffy nose. Over-the-counter cold medications are generally not recommended for young children. If symptoms persist for more than a week or worsen, consult our office.

For a rash, monitor for any accompanying symptoms such as fever, itching, or swelling. Avoid applying topical creams or ointments until you know the cause. Keep the affected area clean and dry. If the rash is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, or if it spreads quickly, contact our office for evaluation.

Spitting up is common in infants and usually occurs when the baby burps after feeding. It’s generally not a cause for concern unless it’s accompanied by other symptoms. Reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), involves frequent regurgitation that can cause discomfort, irritability, or feeding issues. If your baby seems uncomfortable or if the spitting up is excessive, please consult our office for guidance.

To manage spitting up, try feeding your baby smaller amounts more frequently, keeping them upright during and after feedings, and burping them more often. If you’re concerned about the frequency or severity, or if your baby shows signs of discomfort, contact our office for further evaluation.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease is usually caused by a virus. Encourage good hand hygiene and avoid close contact with affected individuals. To alleviate symptoms, ensure your child stays hydrated and eats soft foods if their mouth is sore. You can administer over-the-counter pain relievers, such as an appropriate dose of acetaminophen or ibuprofen based on their age and weight, to help with discomfort. If symptoms are severe or if there are concerns about dehydration or complications, please contact our office.

Acne often begins during puberty, usually around ages 10-14, due to hormonal changes that increase oil production in the skin. It can also be influenced by genetics, diet, and certain skincare products. While acne is most common during adolescence, it can affect younger children and adults as well.

Effective treatments for acne in children may include:

• Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or alpha hydroxy acids can help manage mild acne.

• Prescription Medications: For more severe cases, your pediatrician may recommend prescription topical treatments, oral antibiotics, or other medications.

• Proper Skincare Routine: Encourage your child to use a gentle, non-comedogenic cleanser and to avoid picking at or squeezing acne lesions.

Seek medical advice if:

• The acne is severe, widespread, or causing significant distress or scarring.

• Over-the-counter treatments are ineffective or causing irritation.

• Acne persists beyond the typical teenage years or seems unusual in any way.