Pediatrics facts for kids
Pediatrics is a special part of medicine that focuses on the health of babies, children, and teenagers. It covers ages from birth up to about 18 or 21 years old. A doctor who works in pediatrics is called a pediatrician.
Pediatricians can be your main family doctor, or they can be specialists who focus on certain health problems.
Pediatricians help children stay healthy and grow normally. They also treat diseases that children get. A very important way they prevent illness is through immunization, also known as vaccination.
A long time ago, in the 1800s, many children died before they turned five. Most of these deaths were from infections. Today, doctors can treat many of these illnesses. But even more important, many diseases are now prevented by vaccinations.
Pediatricians also try to prevent other problems like injuries. They teach parents about safety and good nutrition. They might also talk to older children about making healthy choices and avoiding harmful habits. Because childhood is a time of so much change, preventing problems is a big part of what pediatricians do.
Different Kinds of Pediatricians
Many pediatricians work as primary care doctors. These doctors do regular health check-ups and make sure kids are growing well. They also treat common illnesses, give vaccinations, and offer health advice to young people and their parents.
Some pediatricians choose to specialize in certain areas:
- Adolescent medicine specialists help teenagers and young adults, usually from age 11 to 21.
- Pediatric oncologists are doctors who diagnose and treat different types of cancer in children.
- Pediatric cardiologists focus on heart problems and diseases that affect children.
- Some pediatricians treat children and teens with bone, joint, or muscle problems, like certain types of arthritis or long-lasting pain.
- Neonatologists are special doctors who care for newborn babies who need extra help or hospital care.
See also
In Spanish: Pediatría para niños
