Category: Mid City Pediatrics Blog

The start of a new school year can bring lots of excitement—but also some jitters, especially for kids. As a pediatrician and a mom, I’ve lived this firsthand.

When my kids were in elementary school, their biggest worry was whether they’d get the teacher they were hoping for—or if their best friend would be in the same class. In middle school, that anxiety shifted to whether they’d be on the same lunch shift as their friends. And by high school, the nerves were still there—just different. I remember the mild panic over figuring out where to park or getting lost on the first day of a new schedule.

Many children experience back-to-school anxiety, and the good news is that in most cases, it’s completely normal. But sometimes, anxiety can become more intense, interfere with daily life, or be a sign of something more serious.

Here is how to tell the difference—and what you can do to support your child.

What’s Normal?

Some signs of back-to-school nerves are completely expected, especially in the first couple of weeks:

✅ Mild trouble sleeping the night before school starts

✅ Complaints of “butterflies” in the stomach

✅ Clinginess at morning drop-offs

✅ Worries about making friends, meeting a new teacher, or getting lost at school

✅ Tears that usually stop soon after drop-off

Most kids adjust after a week or two as they settle into new routines and realize things aren’t as scary as they imagined.

When It Might Be More Than Just Jitters

Watch for these signs that anxiety may need more attention:

🚩 Worries that seem excessive or continue beyond the first few weeks

🚩 Frequent headaches or stomachaches without a medical cause

🚩 Refusing to go to school or getting physically ill before school

🚩 Trouble sleeping most nights

🚩 Panic attacks, extreme meltdowns, or prolonged sadness

🚩 Withdrawal from activities or friends they used to enjoy

If you’re seeing these red flags, it’s a good idea to talk with your child’s doctor. We can help screen for anxiety and other mental health concerns and guide you on next steps—whether that’s school counseling, therapy, or other support.

How You Can Help at Home

📝 Get back into routines early.

Predictable mornings, evenings, and bedtimes give kids a sense of security. Many kids are out of a routine in the summer, so starting the school year tired and cranky is never a great way to begin. Start practicing school-day routines a couple of weeks before the first day to make the transition smoother.

💬 Talk through fears.

Let your child know it’s okay to feel nervous and that they’re not alone. Instead of brushing off their worries with “You’ll be fine,” try saying, “I remember feeling nervous before school too.” Ask specific questions like, “What part of the day are you most worried about?” or “Is there something that would help you feel better in the morning?”

Sometimes just naming the fear can make it seem less overwhelming. You can also role-play how to handle certain situations, like introducing themselves to someone new or asking the teacher for help. Practicing these moments gives kids a sense of control and confidence going into the first day.

🎒 Visit the school.

If your child is especially anxious, walk through the building, meet the teacher, or show them their classroom if possible. One of the best ways to ease anxiety is to visit the place your child is nervous about before the pressure is on.

When kids can walk the halls, see their classroom, find their locker, or even practice the drop-off routine in a calm setting, it helps their brain register that space as familiar and safe. Seeing it without stress gives them a mental map to fall back on later—so when the first day arrives and emotions are high, it won’t feel quite so overwhelming. It’s like a rehearsal—and that dry run can make the real thing much easier.

🎧 Model calm.

Kids are incredibly tuned in to our emotions—often more than our words. If they sense that we’re anxious, rushed, or overwhelmed, they’re likely to mirror those feelings. On the flip side, if we stay calm and confident, it reassures them that everything is going to be okay.

That doesn’t mean pretending everything is perfect. It means showing them how to manage stress with steadiness. For example, if you’re running late, instead of saying, “We’re going to be late! Hurry up!” try, “We’re running a little behind, but we’ve got this. Let’s keep moving.” That kind of response helps children see that stress doesn’t have to lead to panic. Your attitude sets the emotional tone for the day, and if you treat the first day of school as a positive adventure (even with a few hiccups), your child will be more likely to approach it that way too.

🧡 Celebrate small wins.

For a child who’s feeling anxious, even small accomplishments can be a big deal. Whether it’s walking into school without tears, asking the teacher a question, finding their classroom without help, or simply making it through the day, it’s worth recognizing and celebrating.

You don’t have to throw a party—just a high five, a hug, or saying, “I saw how brave you were today!” can go a long way. When kids feel acknowledged for their efforts, it builds their confidence and helps them feel more capable of handling the next challenge.

You might even set small goals together, like, “Let’s try to say hi to one new person today,” or “Let’s make it through the morning drop-off without any tears.” Every time they succeed, they’re building emotional resilience—and that’s always worth cheering for.

When to Call Us

If your child’s back-to-school worries are starting to interfere with their sleep, appetite, behavior, or ability to attend school, give us a call. The earlier we address anxiety, the easier it is to manage.

We are here to support your child’s whole health—body and mind—as they start the new school year. Let’s make it a great one!

—

🌐 http://www.midcitypeds.com
📞 Need to schedule an appointment or speak to one of our providers? Call Mid City Pediatrics today at 318-221-2225

At Mid City Pediatrics, we are always looking for innovative ways to better understand and support the children and families we serve. One of the latest tools available in our practice is FRAT® testing (Folate Receptor Autoantibody Test)—a specialized blood test that may uncover an important underlying factor in children with autism, speech delays, seizures, and other developmental challenges.

What Is FRAT®?

FRAT® is a blood test that detects autoantibodies against folate receptor alpha (FRα). This receptor helps transport folate (vitamin B9) into the brain—an essential process for healthy brain development, neurotransmitter function, and cognition.

When these autoantibodies are present, they may block or interfere with folate transport into the brain. This condition is known as cerebral folate deficiency (CFD). Even if a child has normal folate levels in their blood, the brain may still be folate-deficient if these antibodies are present.

Why Does It Matter?

Recent research shows that up to 75% of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may have folate receptor autoantibodies. Identifying this issue can help target treatment more effectively.

Children with CFD related to FRα autoantibodies may experience:

• Speech and language delays
• Behavioral challenges or irritability
• Repetitive behaviors
• Developmental regression
• Attention and focus issues
• Seizures or other neurological symptoms

In such cases, addressing the deficiency may lead to meaningful improvements in communication, behavior, and overall development.

How Is the Test Done?

At Mid City Pediatrics, we offer FRAT® testing and follow-up care. Here’s how it works:

1. Schedule an appointment with one of our pediatricians to discuss your child’s symptoms and medical history.
2. If appropriate, we’ll order the test and provide instructions.
3. Your child’s blood is drawn at our in-house lab.
4. The sample is processed by a certified specialty lab, with results typically available in 2–4 weeks.
5. We’ll contact you to review the results and discuss next steps.

What If the Test Is Positive?

If your child tests positive for folate receptor autoantibodies, treatment typically includes a prescription for folinic acid (leucovorin calcium)—a form of folate that can bypass the blocked receptors and reach the brain. Studies have shown that some children respond with improvements in:

• Verbal communication
• Social interaction
• Attention span
• Emotional regulation

Some families also choose to try a dairy-free diet, as bovine milk may increase autoantibody activity in certain cases.

At Mid City Pediatrics, we will work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan and monitor your child’s progress.

Learn More

To read more about the FRAT® test and the research behind it, visit the official website:
🔗 http://www.fratnow.com

If you believe this test might be helpful for your child, we are here to help.
Call our office to schedule a consultation with one of our pediatricians. We’re happy to walk you through the process and answer any questions.

📞 318-221-2225
🌐 http://www.midcitypeds.com

This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose any medical condition. Please consult with your pediatrician to determine if this test is appropriate for your child.

Measles, once a common childhood illness, has become rare in many parts of the world due to effective vaccination programs. However, recent outbreaks highlight the importance of understanding this disease, its history, and the critical role of immunization.

A Brief History of Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that has affected humans for centuries. Before the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1963, almost all children contracted the disease by the age of 15. In the United States alone, an estimated 3 to 4 million people were infected annually, leading to approximately 400 to 500 deaths, 48,000 hospitalizations, and 1,000 cases of encephalitis (brain swelling) each year.

The Impact of the MMR Vaccine

The introduction of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine in 1963 marked a turning point in public health. Widespread vaccination led to a dramatic decline in measles cases, with the disease declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. Globally, measles vaccination prevented more than 60 million deaths between 2000 and 2023. 

Measles: Who gets it and how?

• Spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
• Virus can remain active on surfaces and in the air for up to two hours, making it exceptionally contagious. 
• 90% of susceptible individuals (those unvaccinated or without prior immunity) in close contact with an infected person will contract the disease. 

Recognizing Measles in Children

Early symptoms of measles include:

• High fever: Often spiking above 104°F.
• Cough: Persistent and dry.
• Runny nose: Clear discharge.
• Red, watery eyes: Also known as conjunctivitis.

A few days after these initial symptoms, a characteristic red, blotchy rash appears, typically starting on the face and then spreading downward to the rest of the body. Small white spots, known as Koplik’s spots, may also appear inside the mouth.

Potential Complications

While measles is often perceived as a mild illness, it can lead to severe complications, especially in young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. These complications include:

• Pneumonia: Occurs in about 1 in 20 children with measles and is the most common cause of measles-related death in young children.
• Encephalitis: A serious brain inflammation occurring in approximately 1 in 1,000 measles cases, which can lead to convulsions and leave the child deaf or with intellectual disabilities.
• Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE): A rare but fatal degenerative disease of the central nervous system that can develop years after a measles infection. 

For every 1,000 children who contract measles, 1 or 2 will die from it.

The Importance of Vaccination

Despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine, measles outbreaks still occur, primarily in areas with low vaccination rates. Recent data shows a resurgence of measles cases in regions of the US where vaccine coverage has declined. For instance, as of February 18th, 2025 in rural West Texas, there have been 58 confirmed cases of measles, up from 24 earlier that week. Over half of the earlier 24 confirmed cases needed to be hospitalized. This is the largest measles outbreak Texas has seen in 30 years. 

The MMR vaccine is about 97% effective at preventing measles after two doses. Common side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as a sore arm, fever, or mild rash. Some individuals decline the MMR vaccine due to concerns about “mercury in the vaccine” and fears of it “causing autism.” It’s important to clarify that thimersol, a mercury-based preservative, was removed from all routine childhood vaccines in the United States by 2001 (except for some multidose flu vaccines and one form of tetanus vaccine). Notably, the MMR vaccine has NEVER contained thimerosal! Extensive research has found no credible evidence linking thimerosal in vaccines to autism or other neurodelopmental disorders. Studies have shown that autism rates continue to rise even after thimerosal was removed from vaccines in 2001. 

Current Concerns and Recommendations

In light of recent changes and the loosening of vaccine mandates by public health officials for certain vaccines, pediatricians across the US continue to urge parents to fully vaccinate their children. The resurgence of diseases like measles poses a significant threat, especially considering the fact that many physicians practicing today have never encountered these illnesses firsthand due to previous successful vaccination campaigns.

Ensuring your child receives the complete MMR vaccination not only protects them but also contributes to community immunity, safeguarding those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons. Consult with your pediatrician to keep your child’s immunizations up to date and to address any concerns you may have about vaccine safety and efficacy.

Our Stance On Vaccines

All of the physicians at Mid City Pediatrics feel that vaccines are safe and effective, including the MMR vaccine. We urge our families who are hesitant about receiving vaccines to have a discussion with your pediatrician. 

Sources: CDC, WHO, UpToDate

The New Year is always a time of reflection and goal setting in my household. As a mother of three, I’ve found that involving children in the tradition of making New Year’s resolutions is not just fun—it’s an opportunity to instill important life lessons. Now that my kids are a bit older, I can look back on how this tradition helped shape their independence and resilience.

Why Make New Year’s Resolutions with Your Children?

When my kids were younger, making resolutions together became a cherished tradition. It wasn’t about perfection; it was about growth, learning, and spending meaningful time as a family. These resolutions taught them:

• Goal Setting: They learned how to think about what they wanted to achieve and make a plan.
• Responsibility: They started understanding how their choices impacted their goals.
• Resilience: They discovered how to keep going, even when things didn’t go as planned.
• Self-awareness: It was a chance to reflect on their strengths and where they could improve.

How to Create Resolutions by Age Group

Tailoring the process to your child’s age and stage makes all the difference. Here are some approaches I used with my kids at various stages:

Preschoolers (Ages 3-5)

When my kids were very young, their resolutions were action oriented. They should be simple and fun.

• Example: “I will put my toys away after playing.”
• Tip: Keep it playful and use visual reminders like stickers or charts—they love seeing their progress!

Elementary School Children (Ages 6-10)

In this stage, resolutions became slightly more ambitious. They should build on their growth and sense of independence. 

• Example: “I will read a book for 10 minutes every night before bed.”
• Tip: Make it collaborative. Sit down as a family and brainstorm ideas.

Tweens and Teens (Ages 11-18)

By the time they were teens, my kids started setting goals that aligned with their personal interests. These goals may be more abstract or long-term. Their resolutions might focus on personal development, academics, or social relationships.

• Example: “I will practice my guitar three times a week” or “I will spend less time on social media during school nights.”
• Tip: Let them take ownership. Teens respond well to autonomy and respect.

Tips for Success

1. Model the Behavior: I always shared my own resolutions with my kids—it showed them I was learning and growing too.
2. Make it Positive: Instead of “no more messy rooms,” we would say, “I will tidy up my room every Saturday.”
3. Celebrate Progress: A family dinner to celebrate milestones kept everyone motivated.
4. Be Flexible: Goals can evolve, and that is okay. It’s all part of the process.

Final Thoughts

Looking back, I am grateful we made resolutions a part of our family life. Now, as young adults, my children still carry the skills they learned—goal setting, perseverance, and reflection—into their own lives.

If you have not tried making New Year’s resolutions with your children, give it a go this year. It might just become one of your favorite traditions, as it did for my family.

Here’s to a wonderful New Year filled with growth, learning, and shared moments!

Keeping the Holidays Merry and Bright: Protecting Your Family from the Flu This Christmas

As Christmas approaches, many of us are looking forward to spending time with loved ones, sharing meals, and making memories. But for families with little ones feeling under the weather, the holiday season can bring its own set of challenges—especially with the high rate of influenza circulating right now.

If you have a sick child this Christmas, it’s natural to feel disappointed or worried about missing out on family traditions. Remember, prioritizing health now ensures everyone can enjoy many more joyful moments in the future.

What to Watch for: Flu Symptoms in Children

Influenza can come on quickly and may hit children hard. Be on the lookout for:

• Fever (sometimes with chills)
• Cough or sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches or fatigue
• Headache
• Vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children than adults)

These symptoms can often be confused with a cold or other illness, so it’s important to keep a close eye on how your child is feeling.

Flu in Louisiana: What the Numbers Say

The flu season is hitting hard this year. Nationally, the CDC estimates at least 1.9 million flu illnesses, 23,000 hospitalizations, and 970 deaths so far. Louisiana is seeing particularly high flu activity, with over 11% of flu tests returning positive, compared to a national positivity rate of 3.5%.

When to Call the Doctor

While most flu cases can be managed at home, call your pediatrician if your child has:

• Difficulty breathing or very fast breathing
• Persistent high fever that doesn’t respond to medication
• Signs of dehydration (e.g., fewer wet diapers, dry lips, or no tears when crying)
• Extreme fatigue or difficulty waking up
• Flu symptoms in a baby under 6 months old
• Extremely sore muscles (e.g., muscles so sore it might be difficult to walk)

It’s always better to check in if you’re unsure. We’re here to help. (318-221-2225)

How to Care for Your Sick Child at Home

When the flu hits, focus on:

• Rest and hydration: Keep your child comfortable with plenty of fluids and downtime.
• Fevers: Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage discomfort (never aspirin for children and no ibuprofen for children under 6 months of age).
• Keeping germs at bay: Encourage frequent handwashing and teach kids to cough into their elbows.

When Is It Safe to Be Around Others?

If your child has the flu, they can be contagious for about 5-7 days after symptoms start (and even longer in younger children). As a rule of thumb, wait until they’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication before allowing them to be around others.

We know it’s hard to stay away from family gatherings, but this step helps protect vulnerable loved ones—like grandparents or infants—who might face serious complications if they catch the flu.

Protecting Your Family This Holiday Season

With all the excitement of Christmas, here are a few tips to keep your family safe:

• Vaccination: It’s not too late for the flu shot!
• Hand hygiene: Keep little hands (and big ones) clean with soap and water or hand sanitizer.
• Limit exposure: If anyone in the family feels sick, stay home and rest.

Finding Joy in the Moment

If your holiday plans are disrupted by illness, remember that the love and connection of Christmas don’t have to fade. Whether it’s snuggling on the couch with a favorite holiday movie or calling family via video chat, there are still ways to make the season special.

Your family’s health comes first, and sometimes, the greatest gift we can give is keeping others safe. Here’s to a merry, healthy holiday season and a bright start to the new year!

As the temperatures dip and families prepare for the cozy comforts of winter, another season arrives: respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV is a common respiratory virus that affects 2 to 3 out of every 100 children, according to the CDC. While most cases are mild, RSV can lead to severe illness in some children, particularly those under two years old.

But this year, there’s reason to feel more at ease. Beyfortus is a preventive treatment designed to protect young children from the serious effects of RSV.

At Mid City Pediatrics, we are excited to offer this innovative solution. As RSV season ramps up, you can rely on Beyfortus—and our dedicated team—to help safeguard your family’s health.

What Is Beyfortus?

Beyfortus is a cutting-edge preventive treatment for RSV. Unlike traditional vaccines that stimulate the body to produce antibodies over time, Beyfortus provides immediate protection by delivering pre-made antibodies that target RSV.

This one-time injection helps neutralize the virus, offering fast-acting and long-lasting defense throughout the peak RSV season. And rest assured, Beyfortus is FDA-approved and has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of severe RSV infections.

How Does Beyfortus Work?

Beyfortus uses monoclonal antibodies made to act like the body’s natural immune response. These antibodies help to stop RSV in its tracks. Here is how it works:

1. Single Injection: Beyfortus is given as a one-time shot, usually in the thigh or arm.
2. Immediate Antibody Support: The injection introduces antibodies directly into your child’s bloodstream.
3. Targeting RSV: These antibodies seek out the RSV virus and attach to it.
4. Neutralization: By binding to the virus, the antibodies prevent it from infecting cells, stopping the illness before it starts.

What to Expect After the Injection

Most children tolerate Beyfortus well, but here is what to watch for:

• Mild Reactions: Slight redness or swelling at the injection site, as with any vaccination. 
• Low-Grade Fever: A mild fever which you may treat with over-the-counter medication.
• Temporary Fussiness or Tiredness: Your little one may feel a bit more tired or irritable for a day or two, as with any vaccination. 

Why Consider Beyfortus?

Beyfortus offers several advantages for protecting your child during RSV season:

• Immediate Protection: Starts working right away which is perfect for high-risk times.
• One-and-Done: A single injection provides coverage for the entire RSV season.
• Highly Effective: Reduces the likelihood of severe RSV infections by about 80%. 
• Simple and Convenient: No need for multiple doses or complicated schedules.

Is Beyfortus Right for Your Child?

Beyfortus is especially beneficial for children at higher risk of severe RSV, including:

• Premature Infants
• Children with Congenital Heart Disease
• Those with Chronic Lung Conditions
• Children with Weakened Immune Systems

If your child falls into one of these categories or if you are simply looking for extra protection during RSV season, talk to us about whether Beyfortus is the right choice.

Have Questions? We are Here to Help!

Here are some frequent questions parents have about Beyfortus:

• How long does it protect my child?
  One injection covers your child for the entire RSV season.
• Who can get Beyfortus?
  It is recommended for infants (typically under the age of one born during their first RSV season) and young children under two who are at higher risk for severe RSV.
• Does insurance cover Beyfortus?
  Coverage varies, so check with your insurance provider to confirm your options.
• Can my child receive Beyfortus with other vaccinations? 

      Children may receive Beyfortus with all other childhood vaccines. 

Contact Mid City Pediatrics today to discuss how Beyfortus can help protect your little one this RSV season.

It is time to start another school year. Hopefully everyone has had an enjoyable summer, had time to recharge, and is ready to start the year off with a bang! I remember the feeling I used to get at the end of each summer. I loved school and did well each year. But I always got this knot in my stomach at the end of each summer. I remember feeling excited, but also a little nervous about all the unknowns that go along with a new school year.  

As parents, it is important to recognize that our children might experience some anxiety at the beginning of a new academic year. Whether your child is in kindergarten or high school, here are some steps for a successful school year for all ages.   

1. Get Organized: Have your child’s clothes laid out the night before. If you have older kids, encourage them to make this a habit. This will save valuable time and decrease stress in the morning. Try to have all papers and homework in the proper place (backpack, folders, etc.) before going to bed. Try to keep daily/weekly activities organized in a planner so that everyone knows what is on the schedule for the day. Older children should have their own planners for homework and individual activities. 
2. Get a Good Night’s Sleep: This is probably one of the most important steps. Many underestimate the importance of a good night’s sleep. Without enough sleep, children and adolescents can have problems with attention, memory, and problem-solving. Sleep deprivation can also significantly contribute to emotional and behavioral issues in children. Try to establish a nighttime routine that is consistent. Eliminate electronics at least 2 hours before bedtime. It also helps to wake up at the same time each day. This includes weekends as well. 
3. Fuel for the Day: Try to start the day with a good breakfast. So many kids tell me that they are “not breakfast eaters.” Please don’t forget breakfast. It really is the most important meal of the day. Studies have shown that breakfast eaters have better brain function, attention, and memory. Children score better on standardized tests in math, vocabulary, and spelling when they have had a good breakfast over those that have not. Even a little something in the morning will do. 
4. Set Attainable Goals for the School Year: Sit down with your child before school starts and talk to them about their aspirations for the school year. Help them make a list of what they want to achieve this school year. After you discuss these goals with your child, write them down. When we write our goals down and make a list that we can see, we are more likely to follow through.  Goals could be as simple as wanting to get all A’s and B’s, making new friends, keeping a planner, or joining a new club. 
5. Have a Positive Attitude. Having a positive attitude about the school year will help start the year off right. As a parent, it is important for us to project a positive attitude as well. I know that I enjoy the lazy days of summer just as much as my children. But I know that it cannot last forever. Kids often mirror parents’ attitudes. If we project excitement about the upcoming school year, our children will as well. Positive attitude and perceptions will also carry over to the classroom. Students with a positive attitude tend to be more successful. When you believe in yourself, you are more likely to achieve your goals. Makes sense, huh?!

Wishing everyone a start to a great and successful school year!

Summer is a time for kids to get out and enjoy playing outdoors. Because we live in the south, it is HOT! Many turn to swimming in a pool, at a beach, or the lake to cool off. Because swimming is a big part of summer outdoor activities, we need to think about how we can safeguard our children. 

Did you know that drowning is the leading cause of death among children aged 1-4 and a top cause of death among teens? It can happen to any family. Drowning deaths are silent and can can happen fast. Unlike drownings portrayed in movies, there is little splashing or cries for help. It takes as few as twenty seconds to drop below water and less than a minute to drown. 

Prevention is the key. One major step with drowning prevention is teaching your children to swim. This is a skill that could save their lives. We know know that children can benefit from and begin with swim lesions as early as 1 year of age. Lessons for children aged 1-4 years will mostly consist of water survival skills. Most children are ready for actual swim lessons by the age of 4. It is important to realize, however, that swim lessons are just on of the many layers of protection to keep your children safe. Regardless of location, even experienced swimmers should never swim alone. Always enforced the buddy system. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends multiple layers of protection in order to prevent drowning deaths. Depending on the setting, there are various ways to protect your children when near water or swimming. 

Backyard Pools

Most drownings in children under the age of 4 occur in backyard pools. Over half of these drownings occur while the child was not supposed to be outside or near the water. If you are planning of spending a lot of time in the pool, or if you are a homeowner with a pool, please take time to safeguard your pool. 

• Pool fence: It is best to have a pool fence that is at least 4 feet tall and surrounds the pool on all four sides. Nothing should be near the fence that would allow the child to climb over. The slats should be no more than 4 inches apart. The gate should always be latched. A gate alarm adds an additional layer of safety. 
• Designate a water watcher: This person should be free of all distractions and should watch the water at all times. A water watcher should be a responsible teen or a sober adult. It is a good idea to alternate the designated person frequently. 
• Make you pool a safe zone at all times: Ensure all pool drains are updated with anti-entrapment drain covers. When watching children in the pool, make sure they do not play near drains. It is also a good idea to tie back long hair and for children to wear properly fitting swimsuits. Additionallly, never leave toys floating in the pool. Children might try to retrieve the toy and and fall in. 
• Life jackets: Non-swimmers should always wear a properly fitted life jacket. You should never rely on flotation devices such as a water rings, floaties, or pool noodles. It is a good idea to have life vests available if you own a pool. 
• Buddy System: Even experienced swimmers should never swim alone. 

Open Water Safety

Children aged 5-17 are more likely to drown in open water such as a lakes, ponds, oceans. Talk to your older children about open water safety. 

• Designate a water watcher: As with pool safety, it is imperative that children be supervised while in the water at all times. Young swimmers and inexperienced children should be within arms reach. The water watcher should be free of all distractions. 
• Life jackets: Always wear a life jacket when participating in water activities. All persons on a boat should wear a life jacket, including adults. It is best for non-swimmers to wear a life jacket even when around the water, such as playing near the waterfront, while on a dock, or on the beach near the water. 
• Teach water survival skills: These skills include such things as jumping in the water feet first. Once submerged in the water, come back to the surface immediately.  Learning to float or tread water are also important skills to teach your child. 
• Identifying potential hazards: There are different hazards depending on location. Always be aware of hazards such as rip tides, undertow, limited visibility, and depth. 
• Only use designated swimming areas: Try to swim in areas where there will be a lifeguard present. Additionally, pay attention to weather warnings and red flags at the beach. There are usually signs posted regarding hazards and lifeguard schedules. 

Always safety first! Knowing what to do in an emergency situation is crucial. It could be the difference between life or death. 

• Learn first aid and CPR. 
• Always have a phone with you in case of an emergency. 
• Teach your children how to call 911. 
• Recognize warning signs of drowning.
  • The person may be quiet. 
  • They may remain upright in the water. 
  • Eyes may look glassy or be closed. 
  • Hair might be covering eyes or forehead. 
  • The person’s head might be low in the water tilted up. 
  • Often do not seem in distress. 
  • Trying to swim in a particular direction, but appear to be getting nowhere. 
  • Hyperventilating or gasping. 
  • Appear to be climbing an invisible ladder. 

For more information about pool and water safety, visit:

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Pool-Dangers-Drowning-Prevention-When-Not-Swimming-Time

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-play/Pages/Swim-Lessons.aspx

https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/water-safety/swim-safety.html

Happy and safe summer to all!

As parents, it’s natural to worry when our children develop a fever. Fever is not an illness in itself, but rather a symptom indicating that the body is fighting an infection. As a pediatrician, I often encounter concerns and questions from parents about fever. Let’s cover what fever means, when to be concerned, and how to manage it.

What is fever?

Fever is the body’s natural response to an infection. It’s characterized by an elevation in body temperature above the normal range, which is around 98.6° F (37° C) when measured orally. In children, fever is generally considered when their temperature exceeds 100.4° F (37° C) rectally.

When to be Concerned

Fever itself is not usually a cause for alarm. However, certain circumstances warrant medical attention:

• Age: In infants younger than three months, even a slight increase in temperature can be significant. Contact your pediatrician immediately if your newborn has a fever.
• Duration: If the fever lasts more than a few days or is persistent despite home treatments, consult your pediatrician.
• High Fever: High fever accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, difficulty breathing, or a rash could indicate a more serious condition.
• Dehydration: Watch for signs of dehydration in a child with fever, such as dry mouth, decreased urine output, or excessive fussiness.

Managing Fever at Home

Most fevers in children are harmless and resolve on their own. However, here are some steps you can take at home to help your child feel more comfortable:

• Fluids: Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids like water, diluted fruit juices, or oral rehydration solutions. If they will not voluntarily drink these, you can also offer them liquids with a medicine syringe. Offering 5mL of oral rehydration solution such a Pedialyte every 10 minutes for an hour will deliver approximately one ounce.
• Rest: Ensure your child gets adequate rest to help their body recover. Often children sleep more when they are febrile. If your child seems extra sleepy, check their temperature to see if they are running a fever that needs to be treated.
• Medication: Over-the-counter fever reducers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) can help lower fever and ease discomfort. It is important to remember that ibuprofen is not indicated for children under 6 months of age. Always follow the recommended dosage for your child’s age and weight. Most of the time, the dosage will be different for your child’s age versus their weight. Following the manufacturer’s guidance for weight-based dosage will give your child the most appropriate response from the medication.

When to Call Your Pediatrician

It is crucial to contact your pediatrician if:

• Your child is under three months old and has a fever.
• The fever is high and not responding to the medication.
• Your child is unusually drowsy, irritable, or has difficulty breathing.
• You’re concerned about your child’s condition.

Remember, fever is the body’s defense mechanism. It’s often a sign that the immune system is actively fighting an infection. Trust your instincts as a parent and seek medical advice when in doubt. I am a mom and have acted on my instinct many times. I also tent to listen to parents when they have that gut feeling. That is what we are here for.

In Conclusion

Fevers are common occurrences in childhood and are usually a sign that the body is combating an infection. While they can be concerning, especially for parents, most fevers are harmless and resolve on their own. Trust your parental instincts, and don’t hesitate to contact your pediatrician if you have any concerns or questions about your child’s fever.

Resources

Mid City Pediatrics website offers a Symptom Checker function on our website to help assist parents. We also offer Medication and Dosing Charts.

The doctors at Mid City Pediatrics are here to help you. We see sick patients six days a week and have a doctor on call after hours to assist in emergency situations. Click to schedule your Fast Lane walk-in appointment.  You may also call our office at (318)221-2225 to schedule an appointment with your child’s regular physician.

As a pediatrician, I frequently encounter new parents who are understandibly concerned by the seemingly “weird” behaviors of their newborns. It’s completely natural; after all, infants do some pretty perculiar things! I use the term “weird” in quotes because what might appear as “weird” to parents is often perfectly normal in the world of newborn behavior. Let me shed some light on some of these behaviors to help put your mind at ease.

1. Startle Reflex: Ever noticed your baby suddenly jerking their arms outwards as if they’ve been startled? That is called the Moro reflex. Some babies exhibit this reflex more prominently than others. It’s a normal response to stimuli and typically fades away by the time your baby is 3 or 4 months old.
2. Hiccups: Rhythmic, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm can occur multiple times a day in a newborn. Yes, multiple! While it might seem alarming, hiccups are harmless. You may even remember feeling your baby have hiccups while you were pregnant. They tend to decrease in frequency as the baby’s digestive system matures and they grow.
3. Crossed Eyes: Observing your baby’s eyes occasionally crossing might raise concerns about their vision. However, newborns often have underveloped eye muscles, causing their eyes to appear misaligned. This is normal as their vision continues to develop over the first few months of life. There is no need for concern, as this condition usually corrects itself around 3 to 4 months of age.  
4. Strange Noises: Grunts, snorts, and other peculiar sounds that your baby makes, especially during sleep are surprisingly normal. The adage “sleeping like a baby” is not necessarily true because babies are actually restless sleepers. As long as your baby is breathing comfortably and showing no signs of distress, these noises are typically harmless.
5. Sneezing: Newborns sneeze frequently, which is usually their way of clearing their nasal passages of dust, mucus, or any other irritants. They can’t blow their noses like we can, so sneezing is the most efficient way for them to clear their nasal passages. Pretty smart, huh?

Remember, every baby is unique. While these behaviors are common, if you ever feel concerned about your baby’s actions or notice sudden changes in behavior, it’s always best to consult your pediatrician. As a rule of thumb, if your baby is eating, sleeping, and growing well, the behaviors listed above are usually just part of their normal development.

Parenthood is a wonderful journey filled with surprises. As a pediatrician, I find that understanding these quirks can bring comfort to parents, reassuring them that their baby’s “weird” behaviors are just a normal part of early development. Hopefully, this will help a few parents rest more easily when frantically searching for answers in the middle of the night.

We welcome you to visit us at Mid City Pediatrics. We see children for same-day sick visits 6 days a week. Appointments may be scheduled online. Please click here to schedule an appointment or call us at (318) 221-2225