Winter illnesses have arrived

February 14, 2010 by Kenneth Carlson, MD 

Our office is experiencing increasing demand for visits in last 2 weeks. We are adding hours and appointment times in an attempt to keep up with demand. If your child needs a same day appointment please call early in the day.

Influenza activity continues to be low. Primary increase in illness is from bronchiolitis which often peaks this time of year. Majority of children with bronchiolitis can be managed at home. Children that need to be evaluated are children with poor eating or increasing respiratory distress. Respiratory distress is seen with breathing faster than usual and working harder to breathe. Children will use extra muscles in their chest and belly to assist in their breathing causing “sinking in” between ribs and use of belly to help with breathing. More information on our bronchiolitis page.

Tips for busy season:

  • Call early in the day for same day appointments
  • Review this website and other online health resources to determine if your child needs a doctor visit
  • To eliminate having to wait on hold, request an online account so you can securely email your provider or relevant departments. Learn more about our secure online portal
  • Call your pharmacy or request online any refill medications needed. If your child has asthma make sure you have current medications available.
  • Schedule non-urgent appointment for March or April when demand subsides.

Comments

Feel free to leave a comment...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!