From the first giggle to the boldest adventure.
For the past 30 years, I’ve had the joy (and occasional challenge) of keeping our community’s tiniest tornadoes healthy, happy and smiling. I’ve been sneezed on, hugged, cried at, and high-fived more times than I can count, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. From serious illnesses to fixing boo-boos, handling "I-don’t-want-to-go-to-school-it is" or convincing kids that a stethoscope isn’t a scary robot, I’ve seen it all! Thank you for trusting me through the laughter, tears, and countless sticker bribes—here’s to many more years of growth, giggles, and friendship. I am keeping the lollipops stocked!
Dr. Syed Amer, M.D.
Patient Resources
Existing Patients
You can access our Patient Portal anytime, which makes it easy for you and your family to access your medical records, schedule appointments, and request prescription refills.
For after hours assistance, please call 865.986.1400 and choose extension 5
New Patients
To make things easier for you, we've made some of our most commonly used patient forms available online to download and complete.
For every appointment make sure to bring:
Insurance Information
Proper ID
Custodial Forms
Legal Parent or Guardian must be present.
Recent Emergency or Specialist Forms
Recent Physical Forms
Co-pay is expected at the time of service
Areas of Expertise
Newborn and Infant Care
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Routine Well Visits: During well visits, we focus on preventive care. This includes monitoring your child’s growth, development, and overall health. We provide vaccinations, conduct regular screenings, and offer guidance on nutrition, behavior, and developmental milestones. These visits are a great opportunity for parents to discuss any questions or concerns they may have about their child’s health and well-being.
Routine well visits are essential for monitoring a child’s growth and development, catching potential health issues early, and keeping vaccinations up to date.
Standard Visit Schedule
First Week: Newborn check-up
1 Month: First comprehensive exam
2 Months: Immunizations, growth and development checks
4 Months: Immunizations, developmental milestone checks
6 Months: Immunizations, growth assessment
9 Months: Developmental progress, safety, and nutrition guidance
12 Months: Immunizations, growth, and development assessment
15 Months: Immunizations, developmental screening
18 Months: Developmental progress, safety, and nutrition guidance
2 Years: Growth, development, and behavior assessment
2.5 Years: Development and behavior check
3 Years: Annual check-up starts 4-6 Years: Annual well-child visits with immunizations as needed
7-10 Years: Annual well-child visits, focus on development and school performance
11-12 Years: Pre-teen vaccines and developmental milestones
13-18 Years: Annual visits focusing on physical, emotional, and social development
This is just a general guide; your pediatrician may adjust the schedule based on your child’s unique needs.
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Immunizations are a crucial part of keeping your child healthy and protected from serious diseases. Vaccines undergo rigorous testing and continuous monitoring to ensure they are safe and effective.
How Vaccines are Tested: Before a vaccine is approved, it goes through extensive laboratory testing and clinical trials involving thousands of volunteers. These tests evaluate the vaccine’s safety, effectiveness, and proper dosage.
Ongoing Monitoring: Even after approval, vaccines are continuously monitored for safety. Systems like the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) allow healthcare providers and patients to report any side effects, ensuring concerns are quickly addressed.
Common Side Effects: Most side effects are mild and temporary, such as pain or swelling at the injection site, a low-grade fever, or fussiness. Serious side effects are extremely rare.
Why Vaccines are Safe: The United States has one of the most advanced systems in the world for tracking vaccine safety. Every batch of vaccines is tested for quality and safety, and the manufacturing process is closely regulated.
Benefits Outweigh Risks: The benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks. Vaccines protect not only the individual receiving them but also the community by preventing the spread of diseases.
Ensuring your child’s immunizations are up to date is one of the best ways to protect their health and the health of those around them.
If you have any concerns or questions about vaccines, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
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Fever in a newborn can be concerning and requires careful attention. Here’s what you need to know:
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or Higher: If your newborn has a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, it’s considered a fever and you should seek medical attention immediately.
First 3 Months: Fevers in newborns under 3 months old are particularly serious and may indicate a serious infection like sepsis. Always contact your healthcare provider right away.
Other Symptoms: If your newborn has a fever along with other symptoms such as lethargy, poor feeding, difficulty breathing, or a rash, it’s important to get medical help immediately.
Common Causes of Fever: Infections: Viral or bacterial infections are common causes of fever in newborns.
Overheating: Dressing your baby too warmly or exposure to a hot environment can also cause a rise in temperature.
Vaccinations: Sometimes, a mild fever can occur as a reaction to a recent vaccination.
Monitoring and Care: Always use a digital thermometer to check your baby’s temperature. Never use a mercury thermometer.
Keeping Your Baby Comfortable: Ensure your baby is dressed appropriately for the room temperature and avoid overheating.
Hydration: Make sure your baby is feeding well to stay hydrated.
If you’re ever unsure about your newborn’s fever or how to manage it, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for guidance and reassurance. Your baby’s health and safety are always the top priority. -
Fever in older children can be a common occurrence and often indicates that their body is fighting an infection.
High Fever: A temperature of 100.4°F or higher warrants a call to the doctor.
Prolonged Fever: If the fever lasts more than 3 days without improving.
Other Symptoms: If the fever is accompanied by symptoms like rash, difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, severe headache, stiff neck, or if the child is unusually sleepy or irritable.
Underlying Health Conditions: If the child has a chronic health condition or is immuno-compromised.
Common Causes of Fever
Infections: Viral infections (such as the flu or a cold), bacterial infections (like strep throat or urinary tract infections), and other infections are common causes.
Immunizations: Sometimes, fever can occur as a reaction to a recent vaccination.
Overexertion or Heat Exposure: High temperatures can also be caused by overheating or sun exposure.
Home Care Tips
Hydration: Ensure your child drinks plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Rest: Encourage plenty of rest to help their body recover.
Medication: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to reduce fever and relieve discomfort, but always follow the dosage instructions and consult us.
Cool Compresses: Use cool, damp cloths on the forehead, wrists, and neck to help reduce fever.
Behavioral Health
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1. Early Identification & Screening
Use validated screening tools for early detection.
Observe for symptoms such as excessive worry, avoidance behavior, restlessness, or sleep disturbances.
2. Parent & Caregiver Education
Teach parents how to model healthy coping mechanisms.
Encourage open conversations about fears and worries.
Avoid overprotection, which can reinforce anxiety.
3. Promoting Emotional Resilience
Encourage problem-solving skills and emotional regulation techniques.
Teach mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and deep breathing exercises.
Foster self-confidence through praise and manageable challenges.
4. Supportive School & Social Environment
Implement anti-bullying initiatives.
Encourage participation in social and extracurricular activities.
Ensure school staff is trained to recognize and support anxious children.
5. Healthy Lifestyle Habits
Promote regular physical activity (yoga, sports, outdoor play).
Encourage a balanced diet with adequate hydration.
Establish a consistent sleep routine.
Treatment Strategies
1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Gold standard for pediatric anxiety.
Teaches children how to identify and challenge anxious thoughts.
Uses exposure therapy to gradually reduce fears.
2. Mindfulness & Relaxation Techniques
Deep breathing exercises (e.g., "belly breathing").
Progressive muscle relaxation.
Guided imagery and visualization.
3. Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for Anxiety
Helps parents reinforce calm and confidence in anxious children.
Teaches parents how to respond effectively to anxiety-related behaviors.
4. Medication (If Necessary)
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine or sertraline may be prescribed for moderate-to-severe cases.
Medication should always be combined with therapy for best outcomes.
5. Professional Support & Counseling
Refer to child psychologists or psychiatrists when anxiety interferes with daily functioning.
Encourage group therapy or support groups for peer connection.
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1. Early Identification & Screening
Regular mental health screenings during pediatric visits.
Encourage open conversations about emotions and feelings.
Look for early warning signs such as withdrawal, mood changes, or sleep disturbances.
2. Parental & Caregiver Support
Educate parents on positive parenting techniques.
Encourage strong, open communication at home.
Support parents in managing their own stress and mental health.
3. Building Resilience & Coping Skills
Teach children problem-solving and emotional regulation.
Encourage self-esteem building through praise and positive reinforcement.
Provide social skills training to enhance peer relationships.
4. Healthy Lifestyle Habits
Promote regular physical activity, which has mood-boosting benefits.
Ensure proper nutrition with a diet rich in omega-3s, vitamins, and minerals.
Encourage good sleep hygiene and routines.
5. Supportive School & Social Environments
Foster anti-bullying policies and safe school environments.
Encourage participation in extracurricular activities for social engagement.
Provide school-based mental health services when possible.
6. Professional Support & Therapy
Connect children with counselors or therapists when needed.
Provide access to child psychiatrists for early intervention if necessary.
Offer family therapy to address household dynamics contributing to stress.
Spectrum Disorders
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ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting both children and adults. It is characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness that are more severe and frequent than typically observed in individuals at comparable developmental levels.
Symptoms include:
Difficulty staying focused
Disorganization
Excessive fidgeting
Interrupting others
Treatment Options
Treatment often involves a combination of:
Behavioral therapy
Medication
Lifestyle adjustments
Diagnosis
Diagnosing ADHD involves a comprehensive evaluation that includes:
Interviews
Questionnaires
Behavioral assessments
We look for persistent patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that are inconsistent with the child’s developmental level and that impact their daily functioning. A combination of information from parents, teachers, and other caregivers is considered to ensure a thorough understanding of the child’s behavior across different settings. This multifaceted approach helps to rule out other conditions and confirm the diagnosis.
Common Medications for ADHD
Stimulants:
Methylphenidate (e.g., Ritalin, Concerta)
Amphetamine (e.g., Adderall)
Lisdexamfetamine (e.g., Vyvanse)
Non-Stimulants:
Atomoxetine (Strattera)
Guanfacine (Intuniv)
Clonidine (Kapvay)
Other Medications:
Antidepressants (e.g., bupropion)
These medications work by increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which help improve attention, focus, and control over impulsive behaviors.
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When to Start Suspecting Autism:
Concerns may arise as early as 12–18 months
Limited eye contact or lack of response to name by 12 months
Delayed babbling, pointing, or gestures by 12–18 months
Minimal interest in social games like peekaboo
Regression in language or social skills at any age
Signs of Autism (may vary by child):
Difficulty with social interactions or making friends
Repetitive behaviors, routines, or movements
Unusual speech patterns or limited verbal communication
Intense focus on specific interests or objects
Sensitivities to sounds, textures, or light
Treatment & Support Options:
Early intervention services, often starting before age 3
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and other behavioral therapies
Speech, occupational, and physical therapy
Social skills programs and support groups
Educational planning and accommodations at school
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SPD is a condition where children have difficulty processing and responding to sensory information, impacting their daily activities and interactions. Below are some key points:
Types of SPD:
Sensory Modulation Disorder:
Children may overreact or underreact to sensory stimuli.
For example, they might find lights too bright or not notice strong smells.
Sensory-Based Motor Disorder:
Issues with balance and coordination, such as trouble walking or bumping into things.
Sensory Discrimination Disorder:
Difficulty distinguishing between different sensory inputs, like not recognizing different faces or sounds.
Symptoms:
Over-Sensitivity:
Discomfort with loud noises, bright lights, or certain textures.Under-Sensitivity:
Not noticing when their face is dirty or not feeling pain the same way others do.Behavioral Issues:
Tantrums, difficulty dressing, or avoiding certain foods.
Diagnosis:
Screening Tools:
Tools like the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) can help identify potential sensory processing issues.Professional Evaluation:
Occupational therapists and developmental pediatricians can conduct comprehensive evaluations.
Treatment:
Occupational Therapy:
Sensory integration therapy helps children adapt to sensory experiences.Sensory Diet:
A personalized plan that includes sensory activities throughout the day.Home Strategies:
Creating a quiet space, using weighted blankets, or providing fidget toys.
Impact on Daily Life:
Academic Performance:
SPD can affect concentration and learning.Social Interactions:
Difficulty forming relationships and participating in group activities.Emotional Well-Being:
Anxiety, depression, or behavioral problems can arise.
Education and Athletics
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We encourage sports physicals to be done before the school year starts, preferably in May, June, and July. Sports physicals, or pre-participation physical examinations (PPE), are essential to ensure that your child is ready and safe to participate in sports activities.
What to ExpectMedical History Review: We start by reviewing your child’s medical history, including any past injuries, illnesses, surgeries, medications, and family medical history. This helps us identify any potential risks or conditions that need attention.
Physical Examination: The physical exam includes checking vital signs such as blood pressure and heart rate, assessing height and weight, and examining the heart, lungs, abdomen, ears, nose, and throat. We also evaluate your child’s vision and hearing.
Musculoskeletal Assessment: We examine your child’s joints, flexibility, strength, and posture to ensure their musculoskeletal system is in good condition for sports activities. This helps identify any areas that might need further strengthening or attention.
Fitness and Performance: We discuss your child’s physical fitness level, training routines, and any specific concerns related to their chosen sport. We may provide guidance on safe training practices and injury prevention.
Allergy, Asthma, and Sinus Care
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The flu, also known as influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Here are some key points about the flu:
Common Symptoms: Fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches, and fatigue.
Severe Symptoms: Some people, especially those with underlying health conditions, can experience severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain, and confusion.
Transmission: The flu spreads mainly by droplets made when people with the flu cough, sneeze, or talk. It can also be spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.
High-Risk Groups: Infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions are at higher risk for serious complications from the flu.
Prevention: The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year. The flu vaccine is updated annually to protect against the most common strains.
Hygiene Practices: Wash hands frequently, avoid close contact with sick individuals, and cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Treatment
Rest and Hydration: Get plenty of rest and drink fluids to stay hydrated.
Medications: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and relieve pain. Antiviral drugs like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) may be prescribed by us to treat the flu.
Home Remedies: Use a humidifier, saline nasal spray, or gargle with salt water to ease symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Attention: Call us if your child experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or persistent high fever.
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Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common and highly contagious virus that causes infections of the lungs and respiratory tract. Here are some key points about RSV:
Symptoms
Mild Symptoms: In older children and adults, RSV usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, congestion, dry cough, low-grade fever, sore throat, and sneezing.
Severe Symptoms: In infants, especially those under 12 months, RSV can cause more severe symptoms like short, shallow, and rapid breathing, struggling to breathe, cough, poor feeding, unusual tiredness (lethargy), and irritability.
Transmission: RSV spreads through infectious respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the face.
High-Risk Groups: Infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems or chronic heart and lung diseases are at higher risk for severe illness from RSV.
Prevention
Hand Hygiene: Frequent hand-washing with soap and water is crucial to prevent the spread of RSV.
Avoid Close Contact: Try to avoid close contact with sick individuals and limit exposure to crowded places during RSV season.
Vaccination: There are vaccines available for older adults and pregnant women to protect infants. Consult us for more information.
Treatment:
Supportive Care: Most cases of RSV can be managed at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter fever reducers.
Medical Attention: Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen, especially in high-risk groups, as severe cases may require hospitalization for oxygen therapy or more advanced breathing support.
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When your child is feeling unwell, we provide prompt and compassionate care to diagnose and treat their illness. We aim to make these visits as comfortable as possible, with a focus on relieving symptoms and helping your child recover quickly. Our team is experienced in handling a wide range of common childhood illnesses and is here to support you through these tough times.
At every visit, whether for wellness check-ups or sick care, we strive to build a trusting relationship with your family, ensuring that your child receives the best possible care in a friendly and reassuring setting.
Call us before urgent care, and we'll schedule your first sick visit with the next available provider.
Well-Child Visits
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Here is what to expect…
1. Growth and Development Assessment
Measurement of weight, length (height), and head circumference
Tracking growth on standardized growth charts to ensure healthy development
Monitoring developmental milestones such as sitting up, crawling, and beginning to talk
2. Physical Examination
Head, eyes, ears, nose, and throat check
Heart and lung auscultation
Abdominal and genital exam
Checking muscle tone, reflexes, and overall physical condition
3. Nutrition and Feeding Guidance
Discussion about breastfeeding, formula feeding, and introduction of solid foods
Advice on feeding frequency and portion sizes appropriate for the child’s age
4. Immunizations
Administration of age-appropraite vaccines
5. Address any concerns.
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Here is what to expect…
Growth & Development Check
Measure height, weight, and head circumference
Track milestones like speech, motor skills, and social behavior
Physical Exam
Head-to-toe check including eyes, ears, heart, lungs, and abdomen
Check for posture, spine alignment, and overall coordination
Vaccinations (if due)
Review immunization schedule
Administer any age-appropriate vaccines
Hearing & Vision Screening
Age-appropriate checks to catch early concerns
Referral if anything seems off
Nutrition & Lifestyle Discussion
Talk about eating habits, physical activity, and sleep routines
Offer guidance for picky eating or screen time
Behavior & Emotional Health
Discuss mood, attention, and social interactions
Screen for common concerns like anxiety or bullying
Parental Questions & Guidance
Time to ask about behavior, learning, or home life
Get advice tailored to your child’s stage of development
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Here is what to expect…
1. Growth & Development Check
Monitor height, weight, and body mass index (BMI)
Discuss puberty, physical changes, and developmental milestones
2. Physical Exam
Comprehensive head-to-toe assessment
Sports physical if needed
3. Vaccinations (as needed)
Review schedule and offer updates (e.g., HPV, meningitis, Tdap)
4. Mental & Emotional Health
Screen for anxiety, depression, and stress
Support for relationships, identity, and mood changes
5. Nutrition, Exercise & Lifestyle
Talk about healthy eating, activity levels, and sleep hygiene
Discuss screen time, substance use, and peer influence
6. Sexual Health & Safety (if appropriate)
Age-appropriate discussion of consent, protection, and STI prevention
Private time with the provider to ask personal questions
7. Academic & Social Support
Address school challenges, learning differences, or bullying
Offer resources for building confidence and resilience
8. Parental Involvement & Guidance
Parents can raise concerns and get advice
Some one-on-one time may be encouraged between teen and provider for privacy
Patient Testimonials