Kumta Pediatric Endocrinology

Meet Dr. Shilpa Kumta: Pediatric Endocrinologist in Ridgewood NJ

Dr. Kumta is a triple Board Certified physician in Pediatrics, Pediatric Endocrinology and Obesity Medicine.

Dr. Kumta trained in Pediatrics at The Brooklyn Hospital Center in Brooklyn, New York and elected to specialize in Pediatric Endocrinology via. fellowships from the University of Buffalo in upstate New York and the Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York.

As a further testament to her commitment to the health of the families she supports, Dr. Kumta subsequently obtained her Board Certification in Obesity Medicine via. the American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM).

Dr. Kumta has over 20 years of experience assisting families throughout the US to ensure the health and well being of children and adolescents.

Our Specialized Pediatric Endocrinology Services in NJ & NY

Growth

Childhood Obesity

Children may suddenly slow down in their growth (or have always been on the shorter side vs. their peers, percentile-wise); early intervention is critical and may entail conservative/holistic treatment (e.g. nutrition) through growth hormone administration.

Childhood Obesity

Maintaining a healthy weight is a challenge for many children. Conventional 'quick-fix' solutions rarely deliver sustained results. Our proprietary approach (“LEANER”) addresses your child’s weight challenges through a holistic and comprehensive systematic methodology.

Puberty

Childhood Obesity

Menstrual Challenges

It can be alarming to see your child maturing faster than other children in school (especially if a young child prematurely develops breast tissue or pubic hair). Symptoms may include rapid growth, body odor, emotional lability, etc.

Menstrual Challenges

The most common age for starting menses is 12.5 yrs. Irregular periods may be caused due to various issues including PCOS. Timely intervention can prevent development of metabolic complications suchas Type 2 diabetes , Hypertension and Infertility as an adult

Thyroid

Menstrual Challenges

Pituitary Problems

Hashimoto's (Autoimmune) Thyroiditis, Graves Disease are common thyroid related problems. Symptoms may include unexplained fatigue , weight gain hair loss when the result is an underactive thyroid or unexpected weight loss despite eating large amounts of food, anxiety and heart racing episodes when overactive. Congenital Hypothyroidism is when achild is born with a defect in the thyroid machinery and cannot make enough thyroid hormone and usually diagnosed at birth.

Pituitary Problems

Menstrual Challenges

Pituitary Problems

Pituitary problems may present at birth, elementary school or during teenage. Corresponding challenges may result in children stopping growth and delayed puberty. By observation, at birth a male child may have a smaller penis. Many children suffering this condition can lead normal lives if hormones are replaced in a timely fashion, and in the correct sequence.

Syndromes

Adrenal Problems

A syndrome is a group of symptoms which consistently occur together, or a condition characterized by a set of associated symptoms. Chromosomal abnormalities such as Down’s Syndrome and Turner's Syndrome have predictable symptoms and need monitoring for various evolving hormonal problems .

Adrenal Problems

The adrenal glands are responsible for producing very important hormones relating to bodily function. Some children are born with a smaller under-functioning pituitary gland and may need cortisol replacement. Other children are born with a condition called Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) which is a genetic condition ideally noted by newborn screen but can cause early pubic hair and body odor in a child as young as 4 years of age.

How Are We Different?

Benefits of our Direct Speciality Care practice:

Minimum or no Wait times to get an appointment

Wait time of 1 to 5 days for an appointment (vs 3 to 6 months at other practices)

Minimum time in waiting room and maximum time with the doctor

Unrushed thorough visits: 30 to 60 mins

Easy access to your doctor

use text to communicate with your doctor in between visits for scripts/refills/appointment scheduling

No Referral needed

Self referrals are welcome, if you have concerns, you can call us directly

You're Not Just a Number

up to 150 patients (vs 1000+ in other practices) means better and more personalized care

Transparent Pricing

Listed directly on our website; no surprise bills such as facility charges, extra time charges

Insurance Acceptance

We accept all insurances for labs, imaging, procedures, DME and medications except for our visit charges

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pediatric endocrinologist?

A pediatric endocrinologist is a medical doctor who has specialized training (e.g. an additional 3 years of training beyond Pediatrics specific to the area of Endocrinology) and is focused on diagnosing and treating children with disorders related to the endocrine system.

For reference, the endocrine system is a network of glands that produce hormones, which are chemical messengers that regulate many important body functions, including growth, metabolism, and sexual development. Concerns addressed by a pediatric endocrinologist include:

1. Growth Disorders: conditions that affect a child's growth, such as growth hormone deficiencies, Turner syndrome, and other genetic disorders.

2. Diabetes: diagnosing/treating diabetes mellitus (Type 1 & Type 2). We help your child manage blood sugar levels, educate families on lifestyle changes and insulin use, and in the use of devices (Continuous Glucose Monitors, Insulin Pumps, etc.)

3. Thyroid Disorders: addressing conditions like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), and thyroiditis.

4. Puberty Disorders: these may be issues related to early or delayed puberty (i.e. precocious puberty and delayed puberty).

5. Adrenal Disorders: These are disorders affecting the adrenal glands, such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and Addison's disease.

6. Bone Metabolism: Treating metabolic bone diseases such as osteoporosis in children.

7. Pituitary Gland Disorders: Diagnosing/treating conditions affecting the pituitary gland (which is critical in relation to hormones & body functions).

8. Sex Development Disorders: Managing disorders of sexual development (incl. gender identity issues).

What is a pediatric obesity specialist?

A pediatric obesity specialist is a pediatrician who has elected to pursue one additional year of focused study in relation to diagnosing, treating, and preventing obesity in children and adolescents.

These specialists aim to address the complex medical, psychological, and social factors contributing to obesity and work closely with families to promote healthy growth and development of children. Concerns addressed by a pediatric obesity specialist include:

1. Diagnosis and Assessment: Thorough medical evaluations to identify the causes of obesity by reviewing the child's growth patterns, body mass index (BMI), and other health conditions e.g. diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnea.

2. Nutritional Counseling: Customized dietary plans aligned to each child’s age, activity level, medical and nutritional needs as well as the dietary preference of families

3. Physical Activity Guidance: Developing customized physical activity plans that are safe, sustainable and enjoyable for children, prioritizing regular exercise vs. sedentary behavior

4. Behavioral and Psychological Support: Counseling & support to address emotional and psychological factors related to obesity (e.g. low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety)

5. Medical Management: Monitoring/managing obesity-related health conditions and, if/when necessary, prescribing medications to help manage weight issues (in rare cases, surgical paths can also be considered)

6. Preventive Care and Education: Preventive measures reducing risk of obesity during foundational years, including breastfeeding, healthy infant feeding practices, and active play in early childhood.

7. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Aligning with a team of healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, dietitians, psychologists, and physical therapists, to provide comprehensive care.

When should my child see a pediatric endocrinologist?

You should consider taking your child to see a pediatric endocrinologist if they exhibit symptoms or are diagnosed with conditions related to the endocrine system. Here are some specific situations in which a referral to a pediatric endocrinologist is advisable:

Growth Issues:

Short stature: If your child is significantly shorter than peers and not following their growth curve.
Excessive growth: Unusual or rapid growth in height.

Puberty-Related Concerns:

Precocious puberty: Signs of puberty occurring before age 8 in girls or age 9 in boys.
Delayed puberty: No signs of puberty by age 13 in girls or age 14 in boys.

Diabetes:

Type 1 diabetes: Symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, and high blood sugar levels.
Type 2 diabetes: Often associated with obesity, fatigue, and high blood sugar levels.

Thyroid Disorders:

Hypothyroidism: Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and poor growth.
Hyperthyroidism: Symptoms include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and irritability.

Adrenal Gland Disorders:

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia: Symptoms may include abnormal genital development, early puberty, or severe illness in infancy.
Cushing's syndrome: Symptoms include rapid weight gain, especially around the face and trunk, and growth failure.

Bone Metabolism Disorders:

Rickets or osteoporosis: Symptoms include bone pain, deformities, or fractures.

Pituitary Gland Disorders:

Growth hormone deficiency: poor growth and short stature.
Pituitary tumors: Symptoms may vary but can include headaches, vision problems, and hormonal imbalances.

Sex Development Disorders:

Ambiguous genitalia or atypical development of the genital organs.
Concerns about gender development or hormonal imbalances affecting gender characteristics.

Obesity with Endocrine Symptoms:

Severe obesity coupled with symptoms such as growth abnormalities or early/delayed puberty.

Genetic Syndromes with Endocrine Impact:

Conditions like Turner syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, or Klinefelter syndrome often have associated endocrine issues.

What conditions does Dr. Kumta treat?

Dr. Kumta treats all manner of conditions related to endocrine and obesity concerns for children and adolescents up to the age of 23:

Growth Disorders
Diabetes
Thyroid Disorders
Puberty Disorders
Adrenal Disorders
Bone Metabolism
Pituitary Gland Disorders
Sex Development Disorders
Obesity Issues
Genetic Syndromes

How do I schedule an appointment with Dr. Kumta?

To schedule an appointment, please call 201-989-6377 or complete the Contact Us form on our website and we will contact you on the same business day.

What should I expect during my child's first visit?

During your first visit, you can expect a comprehensive physical exam and discussion (approx. 1 hour) reviewing your child’s history and discussion of next steps post appointment (which may include further investigations such as blood work, imaging, etc.).

What are the consulting fees for pediatric endocrinologists?

Our fee structure is simple and transparent (no additional fees, e.g. facility fees, etc.); these are listed on our website.

CARE IN DAYS (NOT MONTHS) & DIRECT ACCESS to MD

Pediatric Endocrinologist Serving New Jersey and New York: Dr. Shilpa Kumta

Meet Dr. Shilpa Kumta: Pediatric Endocrinologist in Ridgewood NJ

Our Specialized Pediatric Endocrinology Services in NJ & NY

Growth

Childhood Obesity

Childhood Obesity

Childhood Obesity

Childhood Obesity

Childhood Obesity

Puberty

Childhood Obesity

Menstrual Challenges

Menstrual Challenges

Menstrual Challenges

Menstrual Challenges

Thyroid

Menstrual Challenges

Pituitary Problems

Pituitary Problems

Menstrual Challenges

Pituitary Problems

Syndromes

Adrenal Problems

Adrenal Problems

Adrenal Problems

Adrenal Problems

Adrenal Problems

How Are We Different?

Benefits of our Direct Speciality Care practice:

Minimum or no Wait times to get an appointment

Minimum time in waiting room and maximum time with the doctor

Easy access to your doctor

No Referral needed

You're Not Just a Number

Transparent Pricing

Insurance Acceptance