Chronic Illness

Approximately 10-20 million American children and adolescents have some form of a chronic illness or disability which can affect them throughout their life. Jackyln Chan, MD, FAAP, and the experienced providers at Fairway Children’s Medical Group in West Covina, California, offer expert chronic illness care to children of all ages. It can be stressful when you learn your child has a chronic condition. The team supports you every step of the way, offering an expert diagnosis, treatment options, specialist referrals, and convenient communication. To book a consultation, call the practice today or use the online scheduling tool.

What are chronic illnesses?

Chronic illnesses last longer than three months and can continue throughout your child’s lifetime. Some chronic illnesses include:

• Diabetes 
• Asthma
• Allergies
• Autoimmune disorders 
• Skin conditions (eczema or psoriasis) 
• Obesity
• Epilepsy
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Heart disease
• Metabolic disorders
• Chronic respiratory disease
• Post-organ transplant

Your child may also suffer from chronic mental health conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Why should I seek out chronic illness care?

Chronic illnesses can be stressful and overwhelming for the whole family. They may create long-term challenges for your child, such as: 

• Trouble starting school or entering new phases of life 
• Difficulty focusing or concentrating in school 
• Healthy self-esteem and body image issues
• Depression and anxiety 
• Isolation 
• Longer dependence on parental support
• Fatigue or pain during daily tasks 
• Normal peer relationships 
• Restrictions during recreational activities 
• Managing behavior and emotions 

Fairway Children’s Medical Group diagnoses chronic issues early on and helps you avoid and improve challenges. You may benefit from care if you’re looking for a successful treatment plan and support system for years to come.  

What does chronic illness care include?

Fairway Children’s Medical Group encourages an initial appointment so your provider can properly diagnose your child’s chronic illness or condition. They ask about any symptoms they’re experiencing and how long they’ve been present. 

Because some illnesses are hereditary, your provider reviews your child’s personal and family medical history to determine if your child is at higher risk for issues like cancer, heart conditions, or thyroid problems. 

They perform a physical exam and various needed screenings or panels and create space for you to ask questions or share any concerns. 

Once your provider diagnoses a chronic illness, they collaborate with you on a treatment plan. This plan should be easy for you and your child to manage and improve their symptoms and day-to-day well-being. 

Depending on their needs, your provider may prescribe certain medications and encourage at-home routines or discuss allergens they should avoid. They may develop a behavioral plan like a sticker chart that lets your child earn rewards for taking medicine, participating in activities, and eating meals.

The practice can provide your child’s school with a written plan outlining daily care needs and emergency plans. If your child requires further care, they can refer you to outside specialists.

To learn more about chronic illness care, call Fairway Children’s Medical Group today or book an appointment online. You can book a telemedicine appointment as well.