Childhood obesity is a potentially serious medical issue characterized by excess body weight. Many kids experience weight fluctuations, but if your child carries too much fat in specific areas, they’re more likely to experience conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol. 

If you’re worried about your child’s weight, make an appointment with the caring pediatricians at Abdow Friendship Pediatrics.

There’s no way to determine if your child is obese by looking at them. Everyone carries weight differently and develops at their own pace.

During your child’s initial consultation, their Abdow Friendship Pediatrics provider compares their height and weight to growth charts and the body mass index (BMI). If the team determines that your child’s at risk of obesity, they can make treatment recommendations.

Several factors that may increase the risk of childhood obesity, including:

• Eating a poor diet
• Lack of exercise
• A family history of weight issues
• Psychological factors
• Socioeconomic factors

Certain medications may also increase your child’s risk of obesity. There are several prescription drugs known to increase weight gain.

Yes. If your child is obese, they’re also more likely to experience potentially serious medical issues, like joint pain, high cholesterol, and breathing problems. 

Excess weight might also affect your child’s mood and outlook. Research suggests that obese children are more likely to experience behavioral disorders like anxiety and depression.

Your child’s Abdow Friendship Pediatrics provider diagnoses childhood obesity during an exam. 

They review your child’s medical records, calculate your child’s body mass index (BMI), and compare their height and weight to other children of the same sex and age. Your child’s doctor also evaluates their diet, activity level, and quality of life. Answer each question as honestly as possible because your responses help guide treatment. 

Next, your child’s pediatrician orders lab work, including a cholesterol test and a blood sugar test. They might also order other tests to check for a hormone imbalance.

Treatment of childhood obesity depends on various factors, including your child’s age and general health. Usually, the team recommends healthy lifestyle changes, including:

• Prioritizing fruits and vegetables
• Cutting back on soda and sugary juices
• Avoiding fast food
• Serving appropriate portion sizes
• Exercising regularly

If your child has an underlying medical condition, like diabetes or high cholesterol, they might also benefit from prescription medication in consultation with our pediatric endocrinologist. The goal of treatment is to help them maintain a healthy weight. 

To learn more about the treatment options for childhood obesity, make an appointment for your child at Abdow Friendship Pediatrics by calling the nearest office or booking online today. 

We specialize in Pediatric and Adolescent medicine in Rockville, MD. Call us to book your appointment today.