What happens during a physical exam?
Well-child visits are a great way to make sure your child stays healthy. At a physical checkup, Dr. Carruth checks in on your child’s:
- Developmental milestones
- Nutrition
- Safety
- Mental well-being
He asks you and your child questions about normal, everyday habits and concerns. This is an excellent time to bring up any questions you have or issues you’re wondering about.
Depending on his or her age, Dr. Carruth will check your child’s:
- Medical history
- Measurements: height, weight, head circumference, BMI, blood pressure, heart rate, temperature
- Heart and lung function
- Vision and hearing screenings
- Oral health
- Developmental/behavioral health: screen for autism, depression, and more
- Lead testing
- Genitals
- Reflexes
- Labs
- Lead testing
In addition to getting a full physical exam, your child will receive their vaccinations at certain well-child visits.
How often do you recommend well-child exams?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends well-child visits every year after they turn three, and until age 18. Routine exams are required more frequently before age three, as babies grow and develop at a rapid rate and require closer monitoring. A small child should have eight visits in the first year and three in their second year of life.
Why are routine physicals so important?
Physical exams are preventive. Even if your child appears healthy, it’s important to make sure no issues are going undetected.
Dr. Carruth screens for illness and provide vaccinations at regular exams to prevent disease. He also makes sure your child is hitting physical and developmental milestones so early interventions can ensure the best possible outcome. Additionally, he provides resources and advice to help prevent disease.
At your yearly exams, Dr. Carruth informs you and your child so that you both know what to expect in the upcoming year. He can reaffirm your child’s healthy habits and help you adjust any troublesome habits.
If you need to schedule your child’s yearly exam, call or find TLC Pediatrics Medical Group, Inc online to make an appointment.
