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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A doctor examining a boy
What is a pediatric endocrinologist?

A pediatric endocrinologist is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to hormones and the endocrine glands in children, from infancy through late adolescence, and early adulthood.

What is the endocrine system?

The endocrine system is a network of glands (like the thyroid, pituitary, adrenal, and pancreas) that produce and release hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers that control crucial bodily functions such as growth, metabolism, puberty, and energy levels.

What kind of conditions does a pediatric endocrinologist treat?

We treat a wide range of hormone-related conditions, including:

  • Diabetes (Type 1 and Type 2)

  • Growth disorders (short or tall stature)

  • Puberty disorders (precocious/early or delayed puberty)

  • Thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, euthyroid sick syndrome)

  • Adrenal gland disorders

  • Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

  • Obesity and associated metabolic issues

GROWTH AND PUBERTY
When is a child considered to have "short stature"?

A child is generally considered to have short stature if their height is significantly below the average for children of the same age and sex, typically below the 3rd percentile on the growth chart. However, we also look closely at their growth rate and parental heights.

Does short stature always mean there's a medical problem?

No. The most common reasons for short stature are:

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  • Familial short stature: The child's height is appropriate for their parents' heights.

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  • Constitutional delay of growth and puberty ("late bloomer"): The child is simply growing and maturing later than their peers. A medical evaluation is important to rule out conditions like growth hormone deficiency, thyroid issues, or other chronic illnesses.

Do you prescribe growth hormone therapy?

We can discuss pros and cons of growth hormone therapy in a visit

What is "precocious puberty"
(early puberty)?

Precocious puberty is when a child starts showing signs of puberty too early—typically before age 8 in girls and before age 9 in boys. Signs to look for are breast development, or rapid growth spurts, among others

What is
"delayed puberty"?

Delayed puberty is when a child hasn't started showing any signs of puberty by an age when most peers have—typically by age 13 in girls or 14 in boys.

DIABETES AND HYPOGLYCEMIA
What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes in children?

This is a great question. A Pediatric Endocrinologist can help answer this question. We love educating the general population about the difference of T1DM and T2DM

What are the warning signs of diabetes?

Common signs of new-onset diabetes include:

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  • Frequent urination (polyuria) - daytime AND nighttime

  • Excessive thirst (polydipsia) - you get thirsty because you pee a lot

  • Unexplained weight loss

  • Extreme fatigue

  • Increased hunger (polyphagia)

THYROID AND OTHER CONDITIONS
What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. In children, it can lead to symptoms like poor growth, fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, and constipation.

What is hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is the opposite—the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone. Symptoms can include weight loss, nervousness, rapid heart rate, trouble sleeping, and an enlarged thyroid (goiter).

What are the adrenal glands?

The adrenal glands are small glands located on top of each kidney. They produce hormones that regulate metabolism, immune system function, blood pressure, and manage the body's response to stress.

FIRST APPOINTMENT
What should I bring to my child's first appointment?

Please Bring:

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  • All available growth records (growth charts, previous measurements)

  • Any previous lab results or imaging reports related to the condition.

  • A list of your questions and concerns.

How long does a typical new patient consultation last?

A first visit is typically scheduled for 45 to 60 minutes to allow the doctor enough time to take a thorough medical and family history, perform an examination, and discuss a comprehensive plan.

Will my child have blood tests or other procedures at the first visit?

The pediatric endocrinologist will determine the necessary tests after the exam and consultation. Blood work is very common, and in some cases, specialized tests or X-rays may be ordered for a future visit.

Send us a message for a 15 minute meet and greet to see if Dr. Mia can help you. 

No medical advice will be covered during this time.

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