Comprehensive Support for Ongoing and Complex Health Concerns
Pediatric Specialty Care with Your Primary Care Physician
When a child feels unwell “in the moment”—during cold and flu season, for example—parents immediately think to call their pediatrician. But what if your child is struggling with a more complex or chronic concern? In those situations, it may feel like a specialist, urgent care, or even an emergency room is the better place to go. However, for non-emergency care, your pediatrician is often the best place to start.
Capital Area Pediatrics understands that not every health issue is short-term or straightforward. To help families address a wide range of concerns, we provide evaluation and management for a variety of complex or chronic conditions. From concussion evaluations, to chronic headaches, to ongoing skin concerns, our team is here to support your child’s health with continuity of care and practical treatment plans.
To schedule an appointment and discuss your child’s needs with your primary care pediatrician, find your nearest location and contact us today.
When to Call Your Pediatrician
When Should I Contact Your Practice Versus Another Care Center?
Whenever possible, to maintain continuity of care, we recommend contacting your pediatrician before visiting another doctor or facility. The exception is an emergency situation, when families should seek immediate emergency care. Call 911 promptly if your child experiences:
- A child turning blue due to breathing difficulties
- A child losing consciousness due to an accident or injury
- A child suffering from a prolonged seizure
- A child experiencing uncontrolled bleeding
- Concerns about a potential neck or spine injury
When waiting is safe and appropriate, seeing your family doctor first helps maintain continuity of care and is often more cost-effective than emergency room or some urgent care visits.
Examples of Specialty and Long-Term Care Available at CAP
The following is a short list highlighting some of the specialized, long-term care services available at our locations:
- Abdominal Pain
- Acne
- Concussion
- Eczema
NEW: We have recently launched a Specialty Clinic at our Vienna location (W. Maple Ave.) for the following conditions:
- Constipation
- Headaches
- Weight Management
- Family Travel
For more information on these services and how to schedule an appointment, please see our Specialty Services page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can Capital Area Pediatrics help with constipation care?
Constipation is extremely common and can make bowel movements difficult. When constipation becomes frequent or persistent, it is important to see your pediatrician for an evaluation. Many cases improve with dietary adjustments that your pediatrician can review. Your doctor may also recommend medication for short-term or long-term management and can rule out underlying conditions that may be contributing. If constipation becomes chronic, our pediatricians can create a long-term treatment plan and schedule follow-ups to help your child feel their best.
How can Capital Area Pediatrics help with headaches?
Headaches are a common source of discomfort in children and teens. When headaches are frequent or ongoing, identifying the cause is important. Infections, stress or anxiety, poor sleep, and head trauma can all contribute. Your pediatrician can evaluate symptoms and may recommend treatment options such as pain relief strategies, dietary changes, stress management approaches, and other care plans. We are now collaborating with Children’s National Neurology to co-manage chronic headache patients using the same protocols, helping families access high-quality care without long specialist wait times.
How can Capital Area Pediatrics help with weight management?
Pediatric obesity is a complex chronic condition that can affect both immediate and long-term health. Children at an unhealthy weight may be at higher risk for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, liver disease, and sleep apnea. Weight bias and stigma can also contribute to psychosocial concerns including anxiety and depression. Our team provides compassionate and comprehensive obesity management, including lifestyle and nutrition counseling, exercise programming, and medication when appropriate.
How can Capital Area Pediatrics help with abdominal pain?
Abdominal pain can occur anywhere from the lower ribcage to the groin area. Acute abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons children visit the doctor, and chronic or recurrent abdominal pain affects an estimated 9 to 15 percent of children. While many cases improve without treatment, ongoing or recurrent pain can interfere with school and daily activities. Your pediatrician can perform an initial evaluation, recommend treatment, order additional testing if needed, and refer to a specialist when appropriate. In rare cases, abdominal pain may signal a serious condition requiring emergency care.
How can Capital Area Pediatrics help with acne management?
Acne is common in children and teenagers and may not respond to typical skincare routines. Before seeing a dermatologist, many families can start with an evaluation from their pediatrician. Our team can recommend over-the-counter and prescription treatments, along with lifestyle guidance to support acne control. If symptoms do not improve with treatment, we can provide a referral to a local dermatologist.
How can Capital Area Pediatrics help with concussion care?
Concussions can occur from more than sports-related injuries. Falls, bicycle accidents, and other impacts can cause concussion symptoms—even if a child did not hit their head directly. Parents should report symptoms and mention any injuries that occurred before symptoms began.
Symptoms to monitor after an injury include:
- A dazed or stunned appearance
- Confusion about what is going on
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Slowed speech
- Blurry vision
- Loss of consciousness
- Mood swings, behavior changes, or changes in sleep
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Nausea
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Feeling sluggish, hazy, groggy, or “off”
Based on what you report, your doctor may recommend an evaluation. During a visit, your pediatrician can conduct an exam, review the injury history, and test strength, senses, balance, reflexes, and memory. Additional testing may be ordered when appropriate. After diagnosis, an individualized treatment plan will be created, and follow-up visits are typically scheduled to monitor recovery.
How can Capital Area Pediatrics help with eczema?
Eczema is a condition where patches of skin become rough and inflamed, and about 1 out of every 10 children may develop it. While it is not always preventable, certain triggers can worsen symptoms. Meeting with your pediatrician can help confirm a diagnosis, review medical history, identify triggers, and establish a treatment plan. Your doctor can prescribe appropriate medication and recommend strategies to help reduce flare-ups.