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Pediatric endocrinologist visit (growth, weight, puberty)

pediatric endocrinologist · child growth · overweight child · puberty

The doctor checks how your child is growing and developing, and whether hormones are getting in the way.

If your child is noticeably shorter or taller than others, is gaining extra weight, puberty began too early or too late, or thyroid problems are suspected.

⏱ Duration: the visit usually takes 20 to 40 minutes, test results in a few days

Be sure to tell your doctor

Your child's height and weight by year - from the record or your notes
The parents' height
When signs of puberty began
How your child eats, sleeps and moves
Which medicines your child takes

How to prepare

Height by year. Copy your child's height and weight for past years from the medical record - this is the most important thing for the doctor.
Tests. The doctor may order hormone tests, usually in the morning on an empty stomach. Ask the clinic.
Talk. Explain to your child that the doctor will look at how they are growing, and it does not hurt.

What to bring

Your child's ID
The medical record with height measurements
Earlier tests and a hand X-ray, if done

How it goes

The doctor asks you about your child's development
Measures height and weight
Examines your child - if needed also signs of puberty, gently and with a parent present
Feels the neck
May send for tests or a hand X-ray
Explains the conclusion and the plan

What you'll feel

The exam is painless
A teenager may feel awkward - you can ask for the exam to be shorter

Afterwards

Keep track of height and weight - write them down every few months
Only the doctor prescribes medicines
Come back for a follow-up when the doctor says

Contact a doctor straight away if

Your child drinks a lot, urinates often, is losing weight and is listless - see a doctor urgently
Acetone smell on the breath, vomiting or drowsiness - call your local emergency number

Common questions

My child is the shortest in class - is it an illness?

Not always. Often it runs in the family. The doctor will look at the height by year.

Why an X-ray of the hand?

It shows how mature the bones are and how much more the child can grow.