(BPT) - Back-to-school is a season of checklists, from supplies and schedules to sports signups and lunchbox prep. But amid the flurry of getting your child back into the classroom routine, certain common health issues can be easy to overlook.
That's because the start of the school year brings a perfect storm of stress, germs and hectic schedules. In the midst of it all, some everyday aches and pains can sneak by undetected until they turn into something much more serious.
"Parents and kids are juggling a lot this time of year," says Dr. Vontrelle Roundtree, Associate Chief Medical Officer at MD Live by Evernorth. "It's easy to chalk up certain symptoms to stress or adjusting to new routines, but some can be early warning signs of something that needs medical attention."
Here are five common health issues that doctors say could easily fly under the radar during the back-to-school rush, and how a virtual care visit can help you stay one step ahead.
1. Tummy troubles that won't quit
Nervous stomach? Maybe. But if tummy troubles like cramping, diarrhea or nausea linger, it could be more than nerves about the new school year. "These gastrointestinal symptoms could point to newfound food sensitivities or allergies, foodborne illnesses, parasites picked up during summer travel or camp, and even anxiety," says Roundtree. "It's easy for these to be mistaken for nerves or a sensitive stomach, but if the child's symptoms are interfering with their daily activities, it's important to see a doctor to rule out any of those issues."
2. Fatigue that feels excessive
Back-to-school routines are tiring, especially for younger kids. But excessive fatigue, especially when paired with pale skin, irritability or trouble focusing, can point to an underlying issue like anemia, often caused by an iron deficiency, which is common in school-aged children and teens. This symptom can be easily misinterpreted as the stress of adjusting to early mornings. However, when fatigue is combined with physical or behavioral changes, it is worth exploring further.
3. Headaches that hit at school
If your child is suddenly complaining of headaches more frequently, especially after a long day in front of computer screens or taking notes from the whiteboard, they may be dealing with eye strain, vision issues or even stress-related tension. "These symptoms often show up once kids are back in structured, indoor environments," Roundtree notes. "It's absolutely worth bringing up during a doctor's visit, especially if you find they're interfering with your child's concentration or sleep habits."
4. Frequent bathroom breaks or bedwetting in older kids
If your child suddenly takes more bathroom breaks during the day or has started wetting the bed again, it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI) or other underlying condition. While these symptoms might indicate something physical, they can also stem from behavioral or emotional factors. Either way, it's worth discussing with your child's doctor.
5. Mood swings that keep swinging
Back-to-school jitters are normal. However, unusual mood swings, outbursts, increased irritability or withdrawal may signal something deeper, such as anxiety, sleep disruptions or even a physical issue like undiagnosed strep, which can sometimes cause neurological symptoms in kids.
"Emotional and physical health are connected," Roundtree explains. "Changes in mood and behavior may be early signs that something deeper is going on."
Don't wait for the school nurse to call
Many of the most common back-to-school health issues can be assessed and addressed virtually from the comfort of your home.
"With MD Live, parents can access board-certified pediatricians quickly, whether they need fast answers, peace of mind or trusted guidance on next steps," says Roundtree. "Virtual visits are a powerful tool for staying proactive during a hectic school year."
This year, add health to your back-to-school checklist. If something feels off, trust your instincts and give your family a healthier start to the school year.