Pediatric Endocrinology

Pediatric endocrinology is a specialized field that focuses on diagnosing and treating hormone-related conditions in children, adolescents, and young adults. At TidalHealth, our team provides care for a wide range of endocrine conditions, such as type 1 and type 2 diabetes, growth disorders, thyroid issues, puberty-related concerns, adrenal disorders, bone and mineral metabolism problems, and lipid disorders.

Care at TidalHealth

We take a family-centered and developmentally appropriate approach to care. Our team evaluates how hormonal imbalances affect your child's growth, physical development, energy levels, and mood. We work closely with families to create personalized care plans that integrate seamlessly into your child's daily life. The process often involves a thorough medical history, growth and puberty evaluations, lab tests (blood or urine), imaging (such as bone age X-rays or ultrasounds), and hormone-related tests (such as glucose monitoring or stimulation/suppression tests).

Treatment and Support

Treatment options vary depending on the child’s condition and may include:

• Hormone replacement therapy for deficiencies or imbalances.
• Insulin therapy and diabetes education for children with diabetes.
• Nutritional counseling and lifestyle changes for weight, thyroid, or metabolic disorders.
• Calcium and vitamin D supplements for bone and mineral metabolism issues.
• Surgery in some cases, particularly for tumors or structural issues.

Some endocrine conditions require long-term care, so our focus includes education and close coordination with your child's primary care provider and other specialists like nutritionists, pediatric surgeons, psychologists, and diabetes educators.

Focus on Daily Life and Transition

Managing endocrine conditions doesn’t have to disrupt a child’s everyday life. We prioritize daily management by offering education for both children and families. We also support children at school, during sports, and in social activities. As children approach adulthood, we help with the transition to adult care, ensuring a smooth move and continued support throughout their lives.

When should my child see a pediatric endocrinologist?
You should consider seeing a pediatric endocrinologist if your child has:

• Growth concerns (either too tall or too short compared to peers).
• Delayed or early puberty.
• A new diagnosis of diabetes (type 1 or type 2).
• Unexplained weight changes.
• Abnormal thyroid results.
• Symptoms suggesting adrenal issues, such as extreme fatigue, changes in skin color, or low blood pressure.

Your pediatrician can guide you on when a referral is needed.

What should we expect at the first visit?
During the first visit, the pediatric endocrinologist will:

• Review your child's medical and family history.
• Measure height, weight, and blood pressure.
• Assess puberty and physical development.
• Review any previous lab or imaging results and recommend any necessary additional tests or treatments.
  For complex issues, expect to spend about 45 to 60 minutes with the doctor.

How is childhood diabetes managed?
Management of diabetes depends on the type:

• Type 1 diabetes: Requires insulin therapy, frequent blood glucose monitoring, and carbohydrate counting. Family education is essential.
• Type 2 diabetes: Often managed with lifestyle changes, oral medications, and occasionally insulin. Ongoing education and regular check-ups are key.

Are the tests painful or risky?
Most tests are non-invasive, such as blood draws or imaging (X-rays or ultrasound). Some tests may require multiple blood samples or stimulation tests, but we use strategies to minimize discomfort. The risks are low and will be explained in advance.

How long will treatment last?
The duration of treatment depends on the condition:

• Some conditions may require short-term therapy.
• Type 1 diabetes and certain hormone deficiencies may require lifelong care.
• Growth-related issues may be monitored over several years.

Does TidalHealth help with the transition to adult care?
Yes, we guide adolescents through the process of transitioning to adult endocrinology. This includes teaching self-management skills, reviewing medical history and medications, and coordinating with adult healthcare providers to ensure continuity of care.

Do you offer telehealth visits?
Many follow-up appointments and education sessions can be done via telehealth. However, some visits requiring physical exams or immediate testing are best done in person. Please ask about telehealth options and insurance coverage during your visit.

What about emotional and school support?
Hormonal conditions can impact a child’s mood, behavior, and school performance. We collaborate with psychologists, school counselors, and school nurses to ensure your child receives the support they need. We help set up individualized plans and accommodations at school, and connect families with additional resources if needed.