Pediatric Health Information A to Z

Pediatric A to Z

in Children

Detailed information on H. pylori, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome

22q11.2 deletion syndrome is a genetic disorder marked by hypoparathyroidism, certain heart defects, and a cleft lip or palate.

A Child Living with a Pacemaker or Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)

Detailed information on living with a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator

A Child's Concept of Death

For infants and toddlers, death has very little meaning. School-aged children begin to understand death as permanent, universal, and inevitable. A predominant theme in adolescence is a feeling of immortality or being exempt from death.

About Cancer

Detailed information on cancer in children, including causes, diagnosis, treatment, and coping

About Clinical Trials: Information from the National Cancer Institute

Clinical trials are studies, managed by government agencies, educational institutions, private not-for-profit organizations, or commercial businesses, to develop, produce, and evaluate the effectiveness of new treatments and therapies for diseases.

About Pediatric Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases

Detailed information on pediatric arthritis and other rheumatic diseases, including causes, symptoms, and members of the treatment team

About the Heart and Blood Vessels

Detailed anatomical description of the heart's blood vessels, including simple definitions and a labeled, full-color illustration

Abrasions

An abrasion is a superficial rub or wearing off of the skin, usually caused by a scrape or a "brush burn." Abrasions are usually minor injuries that can be treated at home.

Accident Statistics

Injury is the leading cause of death in children and young adults. Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injury for children.

Achondroplasia

Detailed information on achondroplasia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Acne in Children

Acne is a disorder of the hair follicles and sebaceous glands. With acne, the sebaceous glands are clogged, which leads to pimples and cysts.

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)/Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

HIV can be passed to a child when he or she is in the mother's womb or as the infant passes through the birth canal. The virus has also been detected in breast milk.

Acute Bronchitis in Children

Detailed information on acute bronchitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Acute Fatty Liver of Pregnancy

Acute fatty liver of pregnancy is a rare, but serious, condition of pregnancy in which there is an excessive accumulation of fat in the liver or liver cells.

Acute Respiratory Disorders

Detailed information on acute respiratory disorders in children

Acute Spinal Cord Injury in Children

Many types of trauma can cause an acute spinal cord injury. The more common types occur when the area of the spine or neck is bent or compressed.

Adding to Mother's Milk

Although your milk is best, it is not always complete with the nutritional needs of very small premature babies or some very sick newborns.

Adenovirus Infections

Detailed information on adenovirus infections, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Adjustment Disorders

Adjustment disorders are quite common in children and teens. They are characterized by an excessive reaction to stress.

Adolescent (13 to 18 Years)

Detailed information on adolescence, ages 13 to 18 years

Adolescent Growth and Development

Detailed information on adolescent growth and development

Adolescent Health Problems and Injuries

Detailed information on adolescent health problems and injuries, including acne, asthma, breast conditions, breast self-examination, diabetes, eye care, eye safety, gynecological conditions, menstrual conditions, gynecologic problems, pap test, vaginitis, vulvitis, menstrual disorders, amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), high blood pressure, infectious mononucleosis, obesity, oral health, orthodontics, braces, wisdom teeth extraction, periodontal disease, orthopedic problems, osgood schlatter disease, scoliosis, slipped capital femoral epiphysis, sexually transmitted diseases, safer sex guidelines, sports safety, sports injuries, sprains, strains, tennis elbow, mouthguards, heat related illness, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke

Adolescent Mental Health

Detailed information on adolescent mental health disorders, including schizophrenia, mood disorders, major depression, dysthymia, manic depression (bipolar disorder), teen suicide, anxiety disorders, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobia, post-traumatic stress disorder, behavior disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, eating disorders, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, substance abuse/chemical dependence, and adjustment disorders

Adolescent Mental Health Overview

Adolescent Problems of the Teeth and Mouth

Detailed information on adolescent problems of the teeth and mouth

Adolescents and Diabetes

Detailed information on special considerations for teenagers with diabetes

Age-Appropriate Speech and Hearing Milestones

A hearing problem may be suspected in a child who is not responding to sounds or who is not developing language skills appropriately.

Age-Appropriate Speech and Language Milestones

Here are guidelines on speech and language development that may help you decide if your child is experiencing hearing problems.

Age-Appropriate Vision Milestones

An infant's eyes are sometimes uncoordinated and may look cross-eyed. Within two months, the child can follow faces and objects and look at his or her hands.

AIDS/HIV in Children

Detailed information on HIV and AIDS, including transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Airway Obstruction - Identifying High-Risk Situations

Choking hazards in the home: round, firm foods such as grapes and popcorn, and small nonfood items such as coins, balloons, and marbles.

Airway Obstruction Index

Infants and children under age 4 are particularly at risk for choking on food or small objects because their upper airways are smaller, and they tend to explore things with their mouths.

Airway Obstruction Overview

Airway Obstruction: Prevention

Because most accidental child strangulations, chokings, and suffocations occur in the home, it's important to carefully childproof your residence.

Airway Obstruction--Injury Statistics and Incidence Rates

Children at highest risk for all forms of airway obstruction are age 4 or younger. Youngsters who sleep in adult beds are also at increased risk for airway obstruction.

Alcohol and Pregnancy

Alcohol consumption by the mother is a leading cause of preventable birth defects in the fetus. In addition, the risk for miscarriage and stillbirth increases with alcohol consumption.

All About Allergies in Children

Detailed information on allergy, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

All About Asthma in Children

What causes asthma? It may be partially inherited, but many other environmental, infectious, and chemical factors are involved.

All About the Immune System

Detailed information on the immune system, including a full-color, labeled illustration of the immune system

Allergic Rhinitis

Pollen, dust mites, mold, and animal dander are the most common causes of allergic rhinitis.

Allergy

Detailed information on allergy, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Alpha Thalassemia in Children

Detailed information on alpha thalassemia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)

Alpha-fetoprotein screening is a blood test that measures the level of AFP in the mothers' blood. Abnormal levels may indicate certain problems with the fetus.

Alternative Therapy for Cancer

Alternative therapy is a nonconventional approach to healing. it may be used instead of standard treatment or in combination with standard medicine.

Amenorrhea in Teens

Amenorrhea is a menstrual condition in which a woman's menstrual periods are absent for more than three monthly cycles. Pregnancy is one possible cause of amenorrhea.

Amniocentesis

Detailed information on amniocentesis, including potential risks and benefits

Amniotic Fluid Problems/Hydramnios/Oligohydramnios

Too much or too little amniotic fluid around the fetus can cause problems. These include preterm labor, birth defects, and underdeveloped lungs in the fetus.

Anaphylaxis

Detailed information on anaphylaxis, including causes, symptoms, and treatment

Anatomy and Development of the Mouth and Teeth

Children's teeth begin developing in the fetus. Good nutrition from the mother during pregnancy is important in the development of the teeth.

Anatomy and Function of the Electrical System

Detailed anatomical description of the heart's electrical system, including simple definitions and a labeled, full-color illustration

Anatomy and Function of the Heart Valves

Detailed anatomical description of the heart valves, including simple definitions and a labeled, full-color illustration

Anatomy and Function of the Liver

Detailed anatomical description of the liver

Anatomy and Physiology of the Ear

The main parts of the ear are the outer ear, the eardrum (tympanic membrane), the middle ear, and the inner ear.

Anatomy and Physiology of the Nose and Throat

The sinuses are cavities, or air-filled pockets, near the nasal passage. They are lined with mucous membranes.

Anatomy of a Child's Brain

The brain can be divided into three areas, the cerebrum, the brainstem, and the cerebellum.

Anatomy of a Joint

Joints are the areas where two or more bones meet. Most joints are mobile, allowing the bones to move.

Anatomy of the Breasts

Each breast has 15 to 20 sections (lobes), which are arranged like the petals of a daisy. Each lobe has many smaller lobules, which end in dozens of tiny bulbs that can produce milk.

Anatomy of the Endocrine System in Children

Detailed information on the endocrine system, its anatomy and function, including a full-color, labeled illustration

Anatomy of the Eye

The structures of the eye include the cornea, iris, pupil, macula, retina, and the optic nerve.

Anatomy of the Female Pelvic Area

Detailed anatomical description of the female pelvis, including simple definitions and labeled, full-color illustrations

Anatomy of the Newborn Skull

Detailed anatomical information on the newborn skull, including a labeled, full-color illustration

Anatomy of the Respiratory System in Children

Detailed anatomical description of the respiratory system, including simple definitions and labeled, full-color illustrations

Anatomy of the Skin

The skin is the body's largest organ. It serves as a protective shield against heat, light, injury, and infection.

Anatomy of the Urinary System

Detailed anatomical description of the urinary system, including simple definitions and labeled, full-color illustrations

Anatomy: Fetus in Utero

A thin-walled sac surrounds the fetus during pregnancy. The sac is filled with amniotic fluid, which protects the fetus from injury.

Anemia

Detailed information on anemia, including symptoms, diagnosis, causes, types, and treatment

Anemia in Pregnancy

Doctor appointments and baby showers aren’t the only things that can tucker you out when you’re pregnant. Anemia is a condition that also can make you feel fatigued. Find out what you need to know to safeguard yourself.

Anencephaly

Anencephaly is a type of neural tube defect present at birth. It affects the formation of the brain and the skull bones that surround the head.

Animal Bites

Detailed information on animal bites and rabies, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Animals

Detailed information on animals as allergens

Anomalous Coronary Artery (ACA)

An anomalous coronary artery is a coronary artery that has an abnormality or malformation.

Anorectal Malformation

An anorectal malformation is a birth defect in which the anus and rectum do not develop properly.

Anorexia Nervosa in Children

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is eating disorder that is a form of self-starvation. A child or teen with AN has abnormally low body weight, a distorted body image, and an intense fear of gaining weight.

Anterior Pituitary Disorders

Detailed information on anterior pituitary disorders, including hypopituitarism

Anticipatory Grief

Anticipatory grief is similar to the normal process of mourning, but it occurs before the actual death.

Antiphospholipid Syndrome (aPL)

This disease can have serious effects in pregnancy, both for the mother and the baby. These include strokes, blood clots, and recurrent miscarriage.

Anxiety Disorders in Children

Detailed information on the most common types of anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and phobias

Aortic Stenosis

Aortic stenosis affects the amount of blood that can flow from the left ventricle to the aorta. Symptoms vary with the degree of blockage.

Aphthous Stomatitis

Detailed information on aphthous stomatitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Aplastic Anemia in Children

Detailed information on aplastic anemia, including cause, symptom, diagnosis, and treatment

Apnea of Prematurity

It’s a cliché that many new parents need to reassure themselves that the baby is still breathing. But what if your baby really is having breathing problems? A breathing condition called apnea of prematurity affects some babies, especially if they’re born early. But you can learn what symptoms to look for.

Appendicitis in Children

Detailed information on appendicitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Arrhythmias in Children

Detailed information on arrhythmias, including symptoms, types, diagnosis, and treatment

Assessments for Newborn Babies

Asthma and Children

How asthma will affect a child throughout his/her lifetime varies, depending on the child.

Asthma and Pregnancy

With proper asthma management and good prenatal care, most women with asthma can have healthy pregnancies.

Asthma Attack Triggers

Your child's asthma may be triggered by a number of things: pollen, molds, certain foods, strong odors, or even exercise.

Asthma in Children Index

Detailed information on asthma, including triggers of an asthma attack, symptoms, diagnosis, management, and treatment

Asthma Medications

Your child's health care provider will prescribe asthma medications based on your child's age, severity of symptoms, and his or her ability to take inhaled medications.

At Work

Many mothers find they maintain milk production more easily if they breastfeed before showering or getting ready for work and then breastfeed again just before leaving the baby with the care provider.

Atopic Dermatitis in Children

Detailed information on eczema, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)

An atrial septal defect is an opening in the dividing wall between the two upper chambers of the heart known as the right and left atria.

Atrioventricular Canal (AV Canal or AVC)

AV canal is a complex heart problem that involves several abnormalities of structures inside the heart.

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children

ADHD is a behavior disorder marked by inattention, impulsivity, and, in some cases, hyperactivity.

Autism Spectrum Disorder

A child with autism appears to live in his or her own world, showing little interest in others and a lack of social awareness.

Autoimmune Diseases

Detailed information on autoimmune diseases and pregnancy

Autosomal Dominant: Marfan Syndrome

Detailed information on Marfan Syndrome, one type of autosomal dominant condition

Autosomal Recessive: Cystic Fibrosis, Sickle Cell Anemia, Tay Sachs Disease

Detailed information on autosomal recessive inheritance, including cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, and Tay Sachs disease

Avoiding Asthma Triggers

From bed coverings to air purifiers, from pets to secondhand smoke, here are ideas to keep your child's asthma triggers under control.

Avoiding Eye Injuries in Children

Children should wear protective eyewear during sports and recreational activities. In the classroom, they should wear eye protection when doing lab experiments.

Baby's Care After a Cesarean Delivery

Because babies born by cesarean may have difficulty clearing some of the lung fluid and mucus, extra suctioning of the nose, mouth, and throat are often needed.

Baby's Care After a Vaginal Delivery

Healthy babies born in a vaginal delivery are usually able to stay with the mother. In many cases, immediate newborn assessments are performed right in the mother's room.

Baby's Care After Birth

Detailed information on baby's care after birth

Baby's Care in the Delivery Room

A newborn baby is wet from the amniotic fluid and can easily become cold. Drying the baby and using warm blankets and heat lamps can help prevent heat loss. Often a knitted hat is placed on the baby's head.

Bacterial Endocarditis

Bacterial endocarditis is an infection of the lining of the heart. This infection can occur in anyone who has congenital heart disease.

Bacterial Skin Infections in Children

Detailed information on bacterial skin infections, including impetigo, cellulitis, scarlet fever, folliculitis, boils, carbuncles, and staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome

Bathing and Skin Care

Bath time is a great time to bond with your newborn while keeping his/her skin healthy and cuddly soft. Get the facts—and proper supplies—to make these moments safe and enjoyable for both you and baby.

Before Your Next Pregnancy

Are you ready to start thinking about a younger sibling for your baby? If so, here’s what you need to keep in mind before you prepare to keep growing your family.

Behavior Changes

Although a baby's activity level, appetite, and cries normally vary from day to day, even hour to hour, a distinct change in any of these areas may signal illness.

Behavior Disorders

Detailed information on behavior problems in adolescents, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, conduct disorder, and oppositional defiant disorder

Benign Skin Growths and Pigmentation Disorders

Detailed information on benign skin growths and pigmentation disorders in children

Beta Thalassemia (Cooley's Anemia) in Children

Detailed information on beta thalassemia (Cooley's anemia), including diagnosis and treatment

Bicycle / In-Line Skating / Skateboarding Safety

Detailed information on bicycle, in-line skating, and skateboarding safety

Bicycle, In-Line Skating, Skateboarding Safety - Injury Statistics and Incidence Rates

Most child and teen bicycle crashes occur between May and August and between the hours of 3 and 6 p.m.

Bicycle, In-Line Skating, Skateboarding Safety--Identifying High-Risk Situations

Most skateboard crashes occur because of irregular riding surfaces or because of inexperience. Sprains and fractures of the wrist are the most common results of a fall.

Bicycle, In-Line Skating, Skateboarding Safety--Identifying High-Risk Situations

Most crashes involving children on bicycles, in-line skates, or skateboards occur because the child breaks a traffic rule.

Bicycle, In-Line Skating, Skateboarding Safety--Injury Statistics and Incidence Rates

Most child and teen bicycle crashes occur between May and August and between the hours of 3 and 6 p.m.

Bicycle, In-Line Skating, Skateboarding Safety--Prevention

Skateboards should never be used on surface streets. Your child should wear protective gear such as helmets, padding, and closed-toe and slip-resistant shoes.

Biliary Atresia

Detailed information on biliary atresia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Biochemical Genetic Testing

Detailed information on biochemical genetic testing

Biophysical Profile (BPP)

A biophysical profile is a test that combines a nonstress test with ultrasound. It's usually performed in the last trimester.

Birth Defects Index

Detailed information on birth defects, including their cause and frequency

Birth Injuries

For various reasons, some babies have a more difficult trip through the birth canal than others, resulting in physical injuries. Such injuries usually are not serious and clear up or improve within a few days or weeks following the birth.

Birth Injury

Detailed information on birth injury, including the most common types of birth injury

Birth Statistics

Statistics relating to birth rates

Birthmarks

Detailed information on birthmarks and the different types, including vascular birthmarks, hemangiomas, and port-wine stains

Bites

Detailed information on bites, including human bites, animal bites, and insect bites

Bites and Stings

Detailed information on insect bites, including bee stings, flea bites, mite bites, chigger bites, spider bites, tick bites, and lyme disease

Biting

Young children may bite others out of frustration or stress, or because they feel powerless. Infants and toddlers often bite as a way of exploring their world.

Bleeding Disorders

Detailed information on bleeding disorders, including Hemophilia and Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura

Bleeding in Pregnancy/Placenta Previa/Placental Abruption

Bleeding may occur at various times in pregnancy. Although bleeding is alarming, it may or may not be a serious complication.

Blepharitis

Detailed information on blepharitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Blisters in Children

Detailed information on blisters, including cause, first-aid, and treatment

Blocked Tear Duct (Dacryostenosis)

A blocked tear duct can occur in one or both eyes. The blockage may be present at all times, or it may come and go.

Blood Circulation in the Fetus and Newborn

During pregnancy, the fetal lungs are not used for breathing—the placenta does the work of exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide through the mother's circulation. With the first breaths of air the baby takes at birth, the fetal circulation changes.

Blood Clotting Disorders in Children

Clotting disorders are a group of conditions in which people are more likely than normal to experience excessive clotting. The medical term for this is thrombophilia. These disorders may first be spotted in childhood but are usually identified in adolescence and young adulthood.

Blood Donations and Blood Banking

Detailed information on blood donations and blood banking

Blood Donations/Blood Banking

Detailed information on blood donations and blood banking

Blood Tests

Detailed information on blood tests used to diagnosis heart disease

Blood Transfusions in Children

If your child's doctor decides that your child needs blood or blood products, he or she will explain the reasons for the transfusion.

Blood Types in Pregnancy

A baby may have the blood type and Rh factor of either parent, or a combination of both parents.

Bone Cancers in Children

Detailed information on bone cancer in children, including Ewing sarcoma and osteogenic sarcoma

Bone Marrow

Detailed information on bone marrow and bone marrow transplantation in children

Bone Marrow Transplantation in Children

The goal of a bone marrow transplant is to transfuse healthy bone marrow cells into a child after his or her own unhealthy bone marrow has been eliminated.

Bottle-Feeding

Detailed information on bottle-feeding, including information on the different types of baby formula

Brain Abscess

A brain abscess is a rare infection in the brain caused by viruses or bacteria. Symptoms include fever, severe headache, and nausea or vomiting.

Brain Tumors in Children

Brain tumors are the most common solid tumors in children. Brain tumors that occur in infants and children are very different from adult brain tumors, both in terms of the type of cells and the responsiveness to treatment.

Branchial Cleft Abnormalities

Detailed information on branchial cleft abnormality, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Breast Conditions

Some breast changes or conditions are related to a young woman's menstrual cycle, but others may occur at any time. Most breast conditions are benign.

Breast Health and Adolescents

Detailed information on breast health for children

Breast Milk Collection and Storage

Detailed information on breast milk collection and storage

Breast Milk Expression

Most mothers who plan to continue breastfeeding will need to express their breast milk during the work or school day if away from the baby for more than three or four hours.

Breast Milk Expression - Helpful Equipment

Hospital-grade, electric breast pumps are the only pumps built for frequent and prolonged use. These pumps automatically cycle suction with release of suction—similar to a baby's sucking action.

Breast Milk Is the Best Milk

Your milk contains just the right balance of nutrients, and it contains them in a form most easily used by the human baby's immature body systems.

Breast Milk: Pumping, Collecting, Storing

"Fresh breast milk" contains the most active anti-infective properties. Refrigerated breast milk has fewer anti-infective properties than fresh milk and frozen breast milk has the least.

Breast Self-Examination

Become familiar with how your breasts usually look and feel so that you may notice any change from what is normal for you.

Breastfeeding and Returning To Work

Detailed information on breastfeeding while at work

Breastfeeding Difficulties - Baby

Detailed information on breastfeeding difficulties of the baby, including ineffective latch-on, ineffective sucking, slow infant weight gain, poor infant weight gain, mismanaged breastfeeding, over-active breast milk let down

Breastfeeding Difficulties - Mother

Detailed information on breastfeeding difficulties of the mother, including sore nipples, low breast milk production, flat nipples, plugged milk ducts, and mastitis

Breastfeeding Overview

Breastfeeding the High-Risk Newborn

Detailed information on breastfeeding the high-risk newborn

Breastfeeding Your Baby

Detailed information on breastfeeding, including information on breast milk, starting breastfeeding, breast milk production, effective breastfeeding, breastfeeding difficulties, sore nipples, insufficient breast milk production, delayed breast milk production, low breast milk production, flat nipples, inverted nipples, plugged milk ducts, mastitis, breastfeeding latch-on difficulties, and poor infant weight gain

Breathing Problems

If you listen closely, you’ll notice that your baby’s breathing isn’t like yours. Babies breathe much more frequently and with different patterns than adults. Here’s how to recognize normal breathing in your infant—and how to spot signs of respiratory distress.

Bronchiolitis

Detailed information on bronchiolitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Bruises

A bruise is a collection of blood underneath the skin that is caused by trauma to an area of the body. Sometimes, enough bleeding occurs so that a lump also forms.

Bruising or Black Eye (Ecchymosis)

A black eye should be seen by a doctor to make sure no injury has occurred to the eye itself. Most black eyes heal completely and do not cause any damage.

Brushing and Toothpaste for Children

You should begin brushing your child's teeth around 24 months of age, or as directed by your child's doctor. Children will need help brushing their teeth until they are 7 to 8 years old.

Bulimia Nervosa in Adolescents

Bulimia nervosa is defined as uncontrolled episodes of overeating (bingeing) usually followed by self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, enemas, or medications in an attempt to control weight.

Burns in Children

Detailed information on burns, burn types, classification of burns, and burn treatment

Burns Overview

Burns are a type of injury caused by thermal, electrical, chemical, or electromagnetic energy. Most burn accidents occur at home.

Calculating a Due Date

First, determine the first day of your last menstrual period. Next, count back three calendar months and add one year and seven days to that date.

Campylobacter Infection in Children

Campylobacter is more common in summer than in winter. Symptoms typically include cramping, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever.

Cancer Overview

Cancer cells don't function properly, and they can spread to many areas of the body. Tumors are clusters of cells that are capable of growing and dividing uncontrollably; their growth is not regulated.

Candidiasis (Yeast Infection) in Children

Detailed information on candidiasis (yeast infection), including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Children

Carbon monoxide is a poisonous, colorless, tasteless, odorless gas. It is the most common cause of accidental poisoning-related deaths and is often called "the silent killer."

Cardiac Catheterization in Children

Detailed information on cardiac catheterization, including how is a cardiac catheterization performed and what happens after the test

Cardiomyopathy and Your Child

Cardiomyopathy is any disease of the heart muscle in which the heart loses its ability to pump blood effectively.

Care and Management of Multiple Pregnancy

A woman with a multiple pregnancy needs more calories and nutrients, more frequent prenatal visits, and more rest.

Care of the Baby in the Delivery Room

A newborn baby is wet from the amniotic fluid and can easily become cold. Drying the baby and using warm blankets and heat lamps can help prevent heat loss. Often a knitted hat is placed on the baby's head.

Care of the Uncircumcised Penis

In an uncircumcised boy, the foreskin will begin to separate from the glans, or the tip of the penis. This happens naturally while the male is an infant. This is called foreskin retraction.

Caring for Babies in the NICU

Detailed information on caring for babies in the NICU

Caring for the Mother: Physically and Emotionally

Nap when your baby naps. Take warm, shallow baths several times a day if you had stitches after delivery. Wear a supportive bra and use warm compresses to help with milk letdown.

Cast Types and Maintenance Instructions

The outside of a cast can be made of plaster or fiberglass. Cotton and synthetic materials line the inside of the cast to make it soft and to provide padding around bony areas, such as the wrist or elbow.

Cat Scratch Disease in Children

Cat scratches and bites can cause cat scratch disease, a bacterial infection carried in cat saliva. Young kittens younger than a year old are more likely to scratch, increasing the likelihood of infection.

Cat Scratch Disease in Children

Cat scratch disease is most common in children under age 10. In almost all cases of cat scratch disease, the person who develops it will have had contact with a cat or kitten.

Cataracts in Children

Detailed information on cataracts, including causes, symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment

Causes of Cancer

There is no one single cause for cancer. Scientists believe that it is the interaction of many factors--genetic, environmental, or constitutional characteristics of the individual.

Cellulitis in Children

Detailed information on cellulitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Cellulitis of the Eye in Children

Detailed information on orbital cellulitis and pre-septal cellulitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a life-long condition that affects the communication between the brain and the muscles, causing a permanent state of uncoordinated movement and posturing.

Chalazion

Detailed information on chalazion, including cause, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Chance a Chromosome Abnormality Will Occur Again: Numerical, Structural (Inherited and De Novo), Mosaicism

Detailed information on mosaicism and the chance that a chromosome abnormality will occur again

Chemical Burns

Chemical burns can occur when strong acids or alkalies come in contact with the skin and/or the eyes.

Chemical Burns of the Eye

A chemical burn occurs when a child gets any type of chemical in his or her eye. This is a medical emergency, and the child should receive immediate medical care.

Chemotherapy for Children

Chemotherapy is one of the most common treatments for cancer. In most cases, it works by interfering with cancer cells' ability to grow or reproduce.

Chemotherapy for Children: Side Effects

Detailed information on chemotherapy and managing chemotherapy side effects in children

Chest X-Ray and Children

Detailed information on chest x-rays, including reasons for the procedure

Chiari Malformation

A Chiari malformation is a birth defect in the area of the back of the head where the brain and spinal cord connect.

Chickenpox

Detailed information on chickenpox, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, complications, and immunity

Child Care

Choosing a childcare provider for your baby is an important decision. Find one who supports your choice to breastfeed and is willing to carry out your plan. Doing so will give you peace of mind and make your transition back to work easier.

Childhood Glaucoma

Detailed information on childhood glaucoma, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Childhood Immunization Index

Detailed information on immunizations for adults and children, including a current immunization schedule

Childhood Immunizations

Your little one will need several immunization shots to help protect her from several childhood diseases, some of which can be deadly. Knowing which shots she needs, when, and what to do in the event of a minor reaction is important.

Childhood Vision Problems

Detailed information on problems with vision in children

Childproof Your Home for Poisons

Always remember that ordinary products you use each day around the home can become dangerous poisons in the hands of a child.

Children and Fleas, Mites, and Chiggers

Fleas, mites, and chiggers often bite humans, but aren't poisonous. It's sometimes difficult to assess which type of insect caused the bite, or if the rash is caused by poison ivy or other skin conditions.

Children and Folliculitis, Boils, and Carbuncles

Detailed information on folliculitis, boils, and carbuncles

Children Living with a Rheumatic Disease

Detailed information on living with a rheumatic disease

Cholestasis of Pregnancy

Cholestasis of pregnancy is a condition in which the normal flow of bile in the gallbladder is slowed or stopped resulting in itching and jaundice.

Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and Triglycerides in Adolescents

The cholesterol in blood comes from two sources: the foods your teen eats and his or her liver. The liver, however, makes all of the cholesterol your teen's body needs.

Choosing a Pediatrician

A pediatrician, family practice physician, or pediatric nurse practitioner can be your baby's primary care provider. The medical specialty dealing with children is called pediatrics.

Chorioamnionitis

Chorioamnionitis is an infection of the membranes and amniotic fluid. It occurs in about 1 to 2 percent of all pregnancies, but is much more common in preterm births.

Chorionic Villus Sampling

Detailed information on chorionic villus sampling, including potential risks and benefits

Chromosomal Abnormalities

Detailed information on the most common chromosomal abnormalities

Chromosome Abnormalities

Detailed information on chromosome abnormalities, including trisomies, monosomies, and genetic translocations

Chromosome Studies: Karyotype, Extended Banding, Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH), and Chromosomal Microarray Analysis

Detailed information on what type of testing is available to determine whether a child has a genetic birth defect

Chronic Hypertension

When a woman has pre-existing hypertension or develops hypertension before the 20th week of pregnancy, this is called chronic hypertension.

Chronic Illness and Transplantation Issues and the Adolescent

Detailed information on chronic illness and transplantation issues and the adolescent

Chronic Lung Disease

If your baby was born premature and needed to be on a respirator, her lungs may have been damaged. This can cause a condition called chronic lung disease (CLD). But CLD can be treated, and as lungs mature the condition can improve. Learn about the symptoms and treatments for CLD.

Chronic Respiratory Disorders

Detailed information on chronic respiratory disorders in children

Circumcision

Whether you decided to have your baby boy circumcised or not, it’s important to know how to care for his special needs. Find tips for caring for both circumcised and uncircumcised babies.

Classification and Treatment of Burns

Burns are classified as first-, second-, or third-degree, depending on how deep and severe they penetrate the skin's surface.

Classification of Burns

Cleft Lip/Cleft Palate

Detailed information on craniofacial anomalies, including cleft lip and cleft palate

Clubfoot

Detailed information on clubfoot, including causes, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and cast care

Coarctation of the Aorta

Coarctation of the aorta refers to a narrowing of the aorta that restricts the amount of oxygen-rich blood that can travel to the lower part of the body.

Cognitive Development

During adolescence, the developing teenager acquires the ability to think systematically about all logical relationships within a problem.

Cold vs. Allergy: How Do I Know the Difference?

Detailed information on the differences between the common cold symptoms and symptoms of allergies

Colic

Though the name sounds like a disease, colic is really just a term for excessive crying in an infant. Unfortunately, nobody knows for sure what causes colic, but there are several theories and possible risk factors for the condition.

Common Characteristics of Liver Disease

Detailed information on liver diseases, including the most common characteristics of liver disease such as jaundice, cholestasis, liver enlargement, portal hypertension, esophageal varices, ascites, liver encephalopathy, and liver failure

Common Childhood External Ear Problems

Detailed information on common childhood external ear problems

Common Childhood Nose and Throat Illnesses

Detailed information on common childhood nose and throat problems in children

Common Children's Digestive Problems

Detailed information on common children's digestive problems, including colic, diarrhea, food allergies, and lactose intolerance

Common Conditions and Complications

Detailed information on common conditions and complications of the high-risk newborn

Common Dental Problems and Concerns

Detailed information on common dental problems and concerns in children

Common Discomforts During Pregnancy

Nausea and vomiting are common in the first trimester, as is fatigue. Other common discomforts are hemorrhoids and heartburn.

Common Procedures

Detailed information on the most common procedures performed on newborns

Common Skin Disorders in Children

Detailed information on common skin disorders, including Bacterial Skin Infections, Fungal Skin Infections, Viral Skin Infections, Viral Exanthems (Rashes), and Parasitic Skin Infections

Common Tests During Pregnancy

Certain tests and screenings may be scheduled during your pregnancy. Your health care provider will advise you on which tests you'll need.

Common Types of Pediatric Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases

Detailed information on the most common types of pediatric arthritis and other rheumatic diseases, including Juvenile Dermatomyositis, Fibromyalgia, Juvenile Ankylosing Spondylitis, Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Rheumatic Fever, Scleroderma, Septic Arthritis, Infectious Arthritis, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Lupus, Vasculitis, Kawasaki Disease, and Henoch-Schönlein Purpura

Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID)

Detailed information on common variable immunodeficiency, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Communication Disorders

Young children with communication disorders may not speak at all, or may have a limited vocabulary for their age. Some children with communication disorders have difficulty understanding simple directions or are unable to name objects.

Complex Heart Problems

Detailed information on complex heart problems

Complications of Multiple Pregnancy

Having more than one baby is especially exciting—and complicated. Find out what to watch for, including a greater chance of anemia and preterm birth.

Complications of Pregnancy

Some of the more common complications of pregnancy are miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and bleeding.

Components of Food

When trying to make heart-healthy changes to your lifestyle and diet, it is helpful to know some basics about nutrition.

Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation for Children

A psychiatric evaluation looks at the child's behaviors, when those behaviors occur, and what impact those behaviors have on school, family, and other relationships.

Conduct Disorder

A child with a conduct disorder has antisocial behaviors that violate the rights of others and age-appropriate social standards and rules.

Congenital and Hereditary Neurological Disorders

Detailed information on the most common congenital and hereditary disorders in children

Congenital and Hereditary Orthopedic Disorders

Detailed information on the most common congenital and hereditary disorders in children

Congenital Heart Disease

Heart problems are the most common kind of birth defects. While children with some heart defects can be monitored by a doctor and treated with medicine, others will need to have surgery.

Congenital Heart Disease Index

Detailed information on congenital heart disease, including patent ductus arteriosus, atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect, atrioventricular canal, tricuspid atresia, pulmonary atresia, transposition of the great arteries, tetralogy of Fallot, double outlet right ventricle, truncus arteriosus, coarctation of the aorta, aortic stenosis, and hypoplastic left heart syndrome

Congenital Laryngeal Stridor

Detailed information on congenital laryngeal stridor, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Congenital Limb Defects

Congenital limb defects occur when a portion or the entire upper or lower limb fails to form normally when the baby is developing in the uterus.

Congenital Liver Defects

Detailed information on congenital liver defects, including biliary atresia and choledochal cyst

Congenital Muscular Torticollis

Detailed information on congenital muscular torticollis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Conjunctivitis

You had conjunctivitis as a child, now your baby has symptoms of it. Your first step should be a call to your doctor, who will make a diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Conjunctivitis (Newborn/Childhood)

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is a very common problem in children. Large outbreaks of conjunctivitis are often seen in day-care settings and schools.

Constipation in Children

Common causes of constipation in children: a low-fiber diet, not enough fluids, lack of exercise, and emotional issues.

Contact Dermatitis in Children

Detailed information on contact dermatitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Coping Emotionally

Your child's burn care and emotional recovery will continue when you leave the hospital. Along with the excitement, you and your child may also feel uneasy about what will happen next.

Coping with a Diagnosis of Cancer in Children

A cancer diagnosis is shocking and overwhelming. But prognosis of childhood cancer continues to improve, and the chance of being cured continues to increase.

Cord Blood Banking

Cord blood banking is an option for parents who want to preserve the blood of the umbilical cord and placenta of their baby as “insurance” to help with possible future medical needs of their child.

Corneal Abrasions

A corneal abrasion is a scratch or injury to the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. This is a very common occurrence in children.

Cosmetic Safety for Adolescent Contact Lens Wearers

Cosmetics are among some of the most common sources of problems for contact lens wearers. Misusing cosmetics can lead to severe adverse reactions.

Craniosynostosis

Craniosynostosis is a condition in which the fibrous joints between the skull’s bony plates close too early, causing problems with normal brain and skull growth.

Crohn's Disease in Children

Detailed information on Crohn's disease, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Crossed-Eyes (Strabismus)

A child with strabismus has one or both eyes that turn inward, outward, up, or down. At times, more than one of these conditions are present.

Croup

Croup is most common in children younger than 5, with the peak age around 2. Croup occurs most often in winter.

Crutch Walking

Hold the top part of the crutch firmly between the chest and the inside of the upper arm. Do not allow the top of the crutch to push up into the armpit. It is possible to damage nerves and blood vessels with constant pressure.

CT (Computed Tomography) Scan

Detailed information on CT scan, including how the CT scan is performed and what happens after the procedure

Cuts and Wounds of the External Ear

Any wound to the ear cartilage that is more than just a superficial cut or laceration should be seen by a doctor to decide if stitches are needed.

Cuts and Wounds of the Face

Most minor cuts or wounds to the face can be handled at home with simple first-aid treatment.

Cuts and Wounds of the Mouth and Lips

The gums, tongue, and lips have a rich blood supply and when cuts occur, these areas may bleed excessively.

Cuts and Wounds of the Nose

Most minor nose wounds can be handled at home, but a wound or bruise that also involves one or both eyes requires immediate medical attention.

Cystic Fibrosis and the Digestive System

Detailed information on cystic fibrosis and its affect on the digestive system

Cystic Fibrosis and the Reproductive System

Detailed information on cystic fibrosis and its affect on the reproductive system

Cystic Fibrosis and the Respiratory System

Detailed information on cystic fibrosis and its affect on the respiratory system

Cystic Fibrosis in Children

Detailed information on cystic fibrosis, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and genetics

Cystic Fibrosis Overview

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

CMV may be passed from a mother to her baby during pregnancy and is the most common congenital viral infection.

Deformational Plagiocephaly

Detailed information on deformational plagiocephaly, including symptoms and treatment

Delayed or Not Enough Milk Production

A delay in the time when milk "comes in" sometimes occurs after the birth of a high-risk baby. Also, it is not unusual to experience a drop in the amount being pumped after several weeks.

Delayed Puberty

Detailed information on delayed puberty, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Delivery

In preparation of the delivery, you may be moved into a birthing room or delivery room, or you may remain in the same room for both labor and delivery.

Dental Emergencies

One type of dental emergency is a knocked-out tooth. If it's a permanent tooth, rinse it and place it back in the socket. Then immediately take your child to the dentist.

Dental Health and Children

Detailed information on dental health in children

Dental Health Overview

Generally, dental examinations and cleanings are recommended every six months for children. Encourage good oral hygiene at home by helping your child brush his or her own teeth.

Dental Procedures for Children

Detailed information on the most common dental procedures, including braces, bleaching, bridges, dentures, dental implants, fillings, root canal, sealants, and wisdom teeth extraction

Dermatitis in Children

Detailed information on dermatitis, including the different types of dermatitis such as atopic dermatitis (eczema), contact dermatitis, dermatitis herpetiformis, generalized exfoliative dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, localized scratch dermatitis, nummular dermatitis, perioral dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis

Dermoid Cyst

Detailed information on dermoid cyst, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Describing a Child's Skin Condition

Detailed information on questions a physician may ask you in describing your dermatological condition and its location

Determining Body Mass Index for Teens

Although it is not a perfect measure, BMI gives a fairly accurate assessment of how much of your teen's body is composed of fat.

Developmental Disorders

Detailed information on developmental disorders in children

Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH)

Detailed information on developmental dysplasia of the hip, including causes, symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and cast care

Deviated Septum in Children

Detailed information on deviated septum, including possible complications of nasal surgery

Diabetes and Pregnancy

It's important for a woman with diabetes to keep her blood sugar under tight control while she's pregnant.

Diabetes Index

Detailed information on diabetes, including type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, teens and diabetes, and diet and diabetes

Diabetes Insipidus in Children

Detailed information on diabetes insipidus, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Diagnosing and Evaluating Heart Disease in Children

Detailed information on diagnosing and evaluating heart disease in children

Diagnosing Anemia in Children

In most cases, anemia can be diagnosed with a few simple blood tests. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all infants be given a blood test to look for anemia at 6 months, 9 months, or 12 months of age.

Diagnosing Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases in Children

Detailed information on diagnosing pediatric arthritis and other rheumatic diseases

Diagnosing Cancer

Many tests are necessary to determine whether a child has cancer, or if another condition is mimicking the symptoms of cancer.

Diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis

Detailed information on cystic fibrosis, including diagnosis

Diagnostic Procedures for Allergy in Children

Detailed information on allergy testing, including blood testing (rast testing) and scratch testing

Diagnostic Tests for Neurological Disorders in Children

Detailed information on the most common diagnostic tests for neurological disorders in children

Dialysis

Detailed information on dialysis, including peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis

Diamond Blackfan Anemia

Diamond Blackfan anemia (DBA) is a rare blood disorder that is usually diagnosed in children during their first year of life. Children with DBA do not make enough red blood cells – the cells that carry oxygen to all other cells in the body.

Diaper Dermatitis

Detailed information on diaper dermatitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Diapers/Diaper Rash

You have two choices in diapers—cloth or disposable, and each type has advantages. You must decide which works best for your child and family.

Diaphragmatic Hernia

A diaphragmatic hernia is a birth defect in which an opening is present in the diaphragm. Some of the organs that are normally found in the abdomen move up into the chest cavity through this abnormal opening.

Diarrhea in Children

Diarrhea is defined either as watery stool or increased frequency of stool—or both—when compared with a normal amount. It is a common problem that may last a few days and disappear on its own.

Diet and Diabetes

It is important to learn about proper meal-planning when your child has diabetes. The type and amount of food your child eats affects his/her blood sugar levels.

Digestive and Liver Disorders

Detailed information on digestive and liver disorders during pregnancy

Digestive and Liver Disorders Overview

Digestive Diagnostic Procedures for Children

Detailed information on common diagnostic procedures for digestive disorders in children

Digestive Disorders in Children

Detailed information on the most common digestive disorders in high-risk newborns

Diphtheria in Children

Detailed information on diphtheria, including symptoms, transmission, treatment, and prevention

Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)

Diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus are serious illnesses. A combination vaccine is given to babies and children to provide protection against all three diseases.

Discharge from the Hospital

Even after minor surgery, some children will remain in the hospital overnight for observation and to receive medications to help with pain or to prevent infection.

Discipline

Detailed information on disciplining a child, including information on time-out, temper tantrum, lying, stealing, and television and children

Discomforts and Complications After Surgery

Common discomforts after surgery include nausea and vomiting, soreness in the throat, and restlessness or sleeplessness.

Discussing Death with Children

The ultimate goal in discussing death with a dying child is to optimize his or her comfort and alleviate any fears. If the child is not ready to discuss death, the most helpful step parents can take is to wait until he or she is ready.

Dislocations

A dislocation occurs when extreme force is put on a ligament, allowing the ends of two connected bones to separate. Ligaments are flexible bands of fibrous tissue that connect various bones and cartilage.

Disorders Affecting Calcium Metabolism

Detailed information on disorders affecting calcium metabolism, including juvenile osteoporosis, hyperparathyroidism, hypoparathyroidism, and DiGeorge syndrome

Disorders Affecting the Adrenal Glands

Detailed information on disorders affecting the adrenal glands, including underactive adrenal glands (Addison's disease), overactive adrenal glands (Cushing's syndrome), and pheochromocytoma

Disorders Affecting the Pituitary Gland

Detailed information on disorders affecting the pituitary gland, including posterior anterior disorders and anterior pituitary disorders

Disorders Affecting the Thyroid

Detailed information on disorders affecting the thyroid gland, including hyperthyroidism (Graves disease) and hypothyroidism

Disorders of Sex Development

Detailed information on ambiguous genitalia, including determining gender and treatment

Disorders of the Brain and Nervous System

Detailed information on the most common disorders of the brain and nervous system in high-risk newborns

Doppler Flow Studies

Doppler flow is a type of ultrasound that measures the flow of blood through a blood vessel. Doppler flow studies may be used to assess blood flow in the umbilical blood vein and arteries, fetal brain, and fetal heart.

Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21)

Down syndrome is a genetic disorder that includes a combination of birth defects, including some degree of mental retardation, characteristic facial features and, often, heart defects.

Drug Rashes in Children

Detailed information on different types of drug rashes, including acne, exfoliative dermatitis, fixed drug eruption, hives, morbilliform/maculopapular rash, purpuric eruptions, Stevens-Johnson syndrome

During an Asthma Attack

Your child's breathing will become harder and may hurt. You may hear a wheezing or whistling sound, which is typical of asthma.

Dust Mites

Detailed information on dust mite allergens

Dyskeratosis Congenita

Dyskeratosis congenita is a congenital disease, meaning it is present at birth. It was initially thought to only affect the skin and nails, but today experts understand that dyskeratosis congenita in its most severe form causes bone marrow failure.

Dysmenorrhea in Adolescents

Dysmenorrhea is a menstrual condition marked by severe and frequent menstrual cramps and pain. Dysmenorrhea can be either lifelong or caused by another medical condition.

Dysphagia

Detailed information on dysphagia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Dysthymia in Children

Detailed information on dysthymia, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Ear Disorders

Detailed information on ear disorders in children

Eating Disorders in Children

Detailed information on adolescents and eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, and obesity

Echocardiography

Detailed information on echocardiography, including types and how the procedure is performed

Ectopic Pregnancy

Ectopic pregnancies nearly always occur in the fallopian tube. Rarely, an ectopic pregnancy will be located in an ovary or in the cervix, or even in the abdomen.

Effective Breastfeeding

Think there’s only one way to breast-feed? Think again! Moms can position their babies in several positions during feeding time that can be comfortable for both.

Effective Sucking

It’s important for your baby’s health to be able to effectively remove milk from your breast during nursing. To do this, your baby must learn the proper way to suck. But how do you know if your baby is actually getting the nutrition he/she needs? Here’s a guide to help you.

Egg Allergy Diet for Children

Parents of children with egg sensitivity may not be aware of the variety of food products that contain eggs. That's why it's important to carefully read food labels.

Eisenmenger's Syndrome

Eisenmenger’s syndrome primarily affects adolescents and adults with congenital heart defects that were repaired after their first birthday or that were never repaired.

EKG/ECG

Detailed information on electrocardiogram, including how the EKG/ECG is performed and what happens after the procedure

Electrical Burns

Electrical burns occur when a child comes in contact with electricity, either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC).

Electroencephalogram (EEG) for Children

An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test that measures the electrical activity in the brain. An EEG measures brain waves through small button electrodes that are placed on your child's scalp.

Emergency Contact Information

In an emergency, it is easy to "forget" even the most well-known information. That's why it is crucial to complete the information in this form for each member of your household.

Emergency Treatment of a Burn Injury

Detailed information on emergency treatment of a burn injury

Emotional and Family Issues

A child's emotions can be affected by the way his/her family members cope with the illness, as well as other issues including the stress felt by the family.

Encephalitis in Children

Encephalitis refers to inflammation of the brain. The inflammation causes the brain to swell, which leads to changes in the child's neurological condition, including mental confusion and seizures.

Encopresis

Detailed information on encopresis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

The purpose of endoscopic sinus surgery is to open the passages of the sinuses allowing for proper drainage to the nose.

Epiglottitis

Detailed information on epiglottitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Epilepsy and Pregnancy

Epilepsy and the medications to treat it can have affect the mother, the pregnancy, and the fetus and newborn. Fortunately, most women are able to have a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Evaluating a Child for Birth Defects

Detailed information on evaluating a child for birth defects

Evaluation Procedures for Children

Detailed information on evaluation procedures used to diagnosis orthopaedic disorders in children

Ewing Sarcoma

Detailed information on Ewing sarcoma, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Examples of Nonteratogenic Agents

Detailed information and examples of nonteratogenic agents

Examples of Teratogens

Detailed information on examples of teratogens

Exercise and Adolescents

Teens need at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity on most days for good health and fitness and for healthy weight during growth.

Exercise and Children

Exercise is an important part of keeping children healthy. Encouraging healthy lifestyles in children and teens is important for when they grow older.

Exercise During Pregnancy

If you exercised before pregnancy, you can safely continue exercising. If you were inactive or you have medical complications, talk with your doctor before beginning to exercise.

Exercise EKG/ECG Testing for Children

Detailed information on exercise electrocardiogram, including how the exercise EKG/ECG is performed and what happens after the procedure

Exstrophy of the Bladder and Epispadias

Detailed information on exstrophy of the bladder, including diagnosis and treatment

Eye Care Specialists

An ophthalmologist is either a medical doctor (M.D.) or an osteopathic physician (D.O.). An optometrist is a doctor of optometry (O.D.) but is not a medical doctor. An optician is a technician who fits eyeglasses.

Eye Care/Avoiding Eye Injuries

Children should wear protective eyewear during sports and recreational activities. In the classroom, they should wear eye protection when doing lab experiments.

Eye Disorders in Children

Detailed information on eye disorders in children

Eye Examinations and Visual Screening

At 6 months of age, an infant should have a vision screening during a well-baby visit. In particular, the doctor should check how well the eyes work together.

Eye Prophylaxis/Vitamin K Injection

Eye Safety and First Aid

Detailed information on eye safety and tips to avoid eye injury

Eye Trauma

Detailed information on eye trauma in children

Eyeglasses and Contact Lenses

A child who needs vision correction may wear eyeglasses or contact lenses. Either choice comes in a range of options.

Eyelid Lacerations

Eyelid lacerations are cuts to the eyelid caused by trauma. Your child's doctor will examine the eye closely to make sure no damage has occurred to the eye itself.

Factors Contributing to Congenital Heart Disease

In up to 90 percent of cases of congenital heart defect, the cause is thought to be a combination of genetics and environment.

Facts About Animal Bites

Whether the bite is from a family pet or an animal in the wild, scratches and bites can become infected and cause scarring. Animals can also carry diseases that can be transmitted through a bite.

Facts About Burn Injury

Hot tap water burns cause more deaths and hospitalizations than burns from any other hot liquids.

Facts About Poisons

About 60 percent of poisonings in children involve items other than medicines—plants, cleaning products, cosmetics, pesticides, paints, and solvents.

Failure to Thrive

Failure to thrive means that a child is not growing as he or she should. Psychological, social, or economic problems within the family almost always play a role in this condition.

Falls

Detailed information on falls and preventing injuries and death in children

Falls: Prevention

Make sure playground equipment is age-appropriate. Most equipment manufactured today is made for two age groups: children from 2 to 5 years old, and children from 5 to 12 years old.

Falls--Injury Statistics and Incidence Rates

Infants are more likely to fall from furniture, baby walkers, and stairs. Toddlers tend to fall from windows.

Fanconi Anemia

Fanconi anemia is a blood disorder in which the bone marrow doesn’t make enough blood cells or makes abnormal types of blood cells.

Feeding Guide for the First Year

It's important to feed your baby a variety of healthy foods at the proper time. Solid foods should not be started before 4 months of age.

Feeding Your Child with Cystic Fibrosis

Detailed information on cystic fibrosis, including feeding your child

Female Growth and Development

Detailed information on female physical development

Female Physical Development

Detailed information on female physical development

Femoral Anteversion

Femoral anteversion is an inward twisting of the thigh bone. It is typically detected when a child is 4 to 6 years old.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Fetal alcohol syndrome refers to a group of abnormalities in babies born to mothers who drink during pregnancy. The problems include small head and brain, facial abnormalities, and defects of other organs.

Fetal Blood Sampling

Fetal blood sampling is a procedure to remove a small amount of blood from the fetus during pregnancy. It may be taken to diagnose problems or an infection.

Fetal Circulation

Through the blood vessels in the umbilical cord, the fetus receives all the necessary nutrition, oxygen, and life support from the mother through the placenta.

Fetal Echocardiography

Detailed information on fetal echocardiography, including how the fetal echocardiography is performed and what happens after the procedure

Fetal Monitoring

Detailed information on fetal monitoring, including potential risks and benefits

Fetal Movement Counting

Fetal movement counting, often called kick counting, is a way a mother can help monitor the movements of her unborn baby by counting the number of kicks in a certain time period.

Fever in A Newborn

Detailed information on fevers in children

Fevers

When your child has a fever, the body resets its thermostat at a higher temperature. This helps the body fight off invading microorganisms.

Fibromyalgia in Children

Detailed information fibromyalgia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Fifth Disease

Fifth disease is caused by the human parvovirus. It is most prevalent in the winter and spring and is usually seen in school-aged children.

Fillings

Teeth that have tooth decay must be repaired. Advances in dental materials and techniques provide new, effective ways to restore teeth.

Fire Safety and Burns

Detailed information on fire safety and burns and preventing injuries and death in children

Fire Safety and Burns - Injury Statistics and Incidence Rates

The most common causes of burn injuries among children ages 14 and under are hair curlers, curling irons, room heaters, ovens and ranges, irons, gasoline, and fireworks.

Fire Safety and Burns Overview

Fire Safety and Burns--Identifying High-Risk Situations

Children are at increased risk for serious fire and burn injuries and death because they have thinner skin than adults, resulting in burns at lower temperatures.

Fire Safety and Burns--Prevention

Develop a family escape plan and practice it repeatedly so that your children will have a better chance of escaping a fire unhurt and alive.

Firearm Safety and Adolescents

Detailed information on firearm safety and prevention

Firearms

Detailed information on firearm safety and preventing injuries and death in children

Firearms--Identifying High-Risk Situations

Parents often underestimate their child's ability to gain access to a firearm in the house, or even the child's ability to pull the trigger.

Firearms--Injury Statistics and Incidence Rates

Having a firearm in the home increases the risk of unintentional firearm-related death among children, especially if the firearm is loaded and kept unlocked.

Firearms--Prevention

The only sure way to keep your child safe from unintentional firearm-related injury and death in your home is to remove all firearms from the home.

First Aid for Poisonings

Sometimes accidental poisonings can be treated in the home under the direction of a poison control center or your child's doctor. At other times, emergency medical care is necessary.

First Trimester Screening

Screening during the first trimester is a combination of ultrasound and two blood tests. These tests can help determine the risk of certain birth defects.

First-Aid for the Eyes

A child with a foreign object in the eye should not rub the eye. An eye wash may be able to flush the object out of the eye. If that doesn't work, seek medical attention immediately.

First-Aid Kit

Detailed list of recommended items for a household first-aid kit

First-Degree Burns

First-degree burns affect only the epidermis, or outer layer of skin. The burn site is red, painful, and dry, with no blisters. Mild sunburn is an example.

Flat or Inverted Nipples

Detailed information on breastfeeding and flat or inverted nipples

Flossing and Children

Flossing should be started when your child is 2 to 3 years old, under the direction of your child's dentist. Children younger than 2 don't need to floss.

Fluoride and Children

Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay, strengthens tooth enamel, and reduces the harmful effects of plaque.

Food Allergies in Children

Detailed information on food allergy, including cause, symptoms, and treatment

For Parents: Important Decisions to Be Made in the Dying Process

Detailed information on important decisions to be made when a child is dying, including the right to refuse treatment, to die at home versus the hospital, advanced directives, do not resuscitate, autopsy, organ donation, palliative hospice care, and funeral arrangements.

Foreign Bodies in the Ear, Nose, and Airway

Children usually place things in their ears because they are bored, curious, or copying other children. Some objects may cause no symptoms, but other objects, such as food and insects, may cause pain in the ear, redness, or drainage.

Foreign Bodies in the Eye

The foreign object may be in the conjunctiva—the thin membrane that covers the actual eye—or in the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye.

Fractures in Children

Fractures occur when more force is applied to the bone than the bone can absorb. Bones are weakest when they are twisted.

Fractures of the Orbit

The orbit is the bony structure around the eye. A blow to the face can break one or more of these bones and can result in severe eye injury and damage.

Frostbite in Children

Detailed information on frostbite, including symptoms and what to do if frostbite occurs

Fungal Infections

Detailed information on fungal skin infections, including Candidiasis, Tinea Infections, and Tinea Versicolor

Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER)

Hiccups. Belching. Stomachache. Sound like a case of heartburn? It isn’t an adults-only condition. If your baby has some of these symptoms, she may have gastroesophageal reflux. If feeding changes don’t bring relief, your doctor may prescribe medications to help.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)/Heartburn in Children

Detailed information on gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Gastrointestinal Problems

If your baby seems fussy and you’ve fed and changed him, he may have an upset stomach or colic. But don’t worry, there are lots of things you can do to make your little one more comfortable and keep both of you calm.

General Principles of Discipline

Most children need to be given consistent, clear rules and expectations about behavior. Discipline needs to begin as soon as the child is mobile—pulling up and crawling.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Children and Adolescents

Children or teens with generalized anxiety disorder often worry a lot about future events, past behaviors, social acceptance, and school performance.

Genetic Disorders Associated with Congenital Heart Disease

Detailed information on congenital heart disease, including patent ductus arteriosus, atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect, atrioventricular canal, tricuspid atresia, pulmonary atresia, transposition of the great arteries, tetralogy of Fallot, double outlet right ventricle, truncus arteriosus, coarctation of the aorta, aortic stenosis, and hypoplastic left heart syndrome

Genetic Services for Children: When, Where, How

Detailed information on genetic services, including when, where, and how

Genetics

Genetics is the study of the patterns of inheritance - how traits and characteristics are passed from parents to their children.

Germ Cell Tumors

Detailed information on germ cell tumors, including causes, types, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Gestational Assessment

It’s not always easy to tell a newborn’s age by their size. Premature babies are usually small, but full-term and past-term babies can be small, too. That’s when doctors will perform a gestational assessment to determine if a newborn needs special treatment.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a condition in which a pregnant woman has elevated glucose levels and other symptoms of diabetes—but did not have diabetes before she became pregnant.

Gestational Hypertension

Pregnancy-induced hypertension is also called toxemia or preeclampsia. It occurs most often in young women with a first pregnancy.

Getting Ready

About two weeks before you return to work, start pumping or expressing milk for storage to use once you return to work.

Getting Ready at Home

Newborns need just some basic items at first—a warm and safe place to sleep, food, clothing, and diapers.

Getting Started

The first weeks of breastfeeding should be considered a learning period for both you and your baby. Don't expect to work as a coordinated team immediately.

Getting to Know Your New Baby

Getting to know your new baby is part of a fascinating but relatively simple process called bonding, in which you essentially "fall in love" with each other.

Glomerulonephritis in Children

Detailed information on glomerulonephritis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Glossary - Adolescent Medicine

Glossary of terms relating to adolescent medicine

Glossary - Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology

Glossary of terms relating to asthma and allergy

Glossary - Burns

Glossary of terms relating to burns

Glossary - Cardiovascular Disorders

Glossary of terms relating to cardiovascular disorders in children

Glossary - Care of the Terminally Ill Child

Glossary of terms relating to terminal illness in children

Glossary - Child and Adolescent Mental Health

Glossary of terms relating to mental health

Glossary - Common Childhood Injuries and Poisonings

Glossary of terms relating to common poisonings and injuries of children

Glossary - Craniofacial Anomalies

Glossary of terms relating to craniofacial anomalies in children

Glossary - Dental and Oral Health

Glossary of terms relating to oral health

Glossary - Digestive and Liver Disorders

Glossary of terms relating to digestive disorders for patients and consumers

Glossary - Ear, Nose, and Throat

Glossary of terms relating to ear, nose, and throat disorders for patients and consumers

Glossary - Genitourinary and Kidney Disorders

Glossary of terms relating to genitourinary and kidney disorders in children

Glossary - Growth and Development

Glossary of terms relating to growth and development of children

Glossary - Hematology and Blood Disorders in Children

Online medical glossary of terms relating to hematology and blood disorders written for patients and consumers

Glossary - High-Risk Newborn

Glossary of terms relating to high-risk newborns

Glossary - High-Risk Pregnancy

Glossary of terms relating to high-risk pregnancy

Glossary - Medical Genetics

Glossary of terms relating to medical genetics

Glossary - Neurological Disorders

Glossary of terms relating to nervous system

Glossary - Normal Newborn

Glossary of terms relating to newborn care

Glossary - Oncology

Glossary of terms relating to cancer in children

Glossary - Orthopedics

Glossary of terms relating to orthopedics

Glossary - Pediatric Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases

Glossary of terms relating to pediatric arthritis and other rheumatic diseases

Glossary - Pregnancy and Childbirth

Glossary of terms relating to pregnancy and childbirth

Glossary - Safety and Injury Prevention

Glossary of terms relating to safety and injury prevention in children

Glossary - The Child Having Surgery

Glossary of terms relating to surgery in children

Glossary - Transplantation

Glossary of terms relating to transplantation in children

Gonadotropin-Independent Precocious Puberty

Detailed information on gonadotropin-independent precocious puberty, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Grief and Bereavement

The process of grieving is often long and painful for parents, siblings, relatives, friends, peers, teachers, neighbors, and anyone that understands the loss of a child.

Group B Streptococcus

You’ve probably never heard of group B streptococcus. That’s because you didn’t need to before you were pregnant. This bacterium generally doesn’t cause problems for healthy nonpregnant women. But it can cause illness in pregnant women and their babies. Here’s what you need to know.

Growth and Development

Children with congenital heart disease often grow and develop more slowly than other children.

Growth Hormone Deficiency

Detailed information on growth hormone deficiency, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Growth in Children

Detailed information on growth in children, including normal growth, newborn screening tests, growth problems, growth hormone deficiency, and achondroplasia

Growth Problems

Detailed information on growth problems, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Growth-Related Disorders

Detailed information on the most common growth-related disorders in children

Guillain-Barre Syndrome in Children

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a neurological disorder in which a child's immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system. The disorder usually occurs a few days or weeks after the child has had symptoms of a respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infection.

Gynecological and Menstrual Conditions

Detailed information on the most common gynecological and menstrual conditions that affect adolescents

Gynecological Health

Detailed information on gynecological health of a child

Gynecological Infections

Detailed information on gynecological problems in a child

Haemophilus Influenzae Infections

Detailed information on Haemophilus influenzae, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, transmission, treatment, and prevention

Haemophilus Influenzae Type b (Hib)

Haemophilus influenzae type b is a serious bacterial disease that usually strikes children younger than 5. It is spread from person-to-person by coughing and sneezing.

Hand Washing

Use warm water to wet your hands, then apply soap. Rub your hands together for at least 10 seconds. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap.

Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease

Detailed information on hand-foot-mouth disease, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Hand-Held Nebulizer Treatments

Breathing the medication straight into the lungs works better and faster than taking the medication by mouth. Nebulizer treatments take about 15 to 20 minutes.

Head Injury in Children

The more common causes of head injury in children are falls, motor vehicle accidents—in which the child is either a passenger or a pedestrian—or a result of child abuse.

Headaches in Children

Many headaches in children may be caused by tight muscles and dilated blood vessels in the head. Other headaches may be caused by an actual problem, such as a tumor or malformation of the brain, although this is much less common.

Health Maintenance

Detailed information on proper health maintenance for a child

Health Promotion and Common Problems

Detailed information on health promotion and common health problems in children

Healthy Diets Overview

Eating healthy is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and is something that should be taught to children at a young age.

Healthy Eating During Adolescence

Encourage your teen to eat three balanced meals a day, with fruits or vegetables as snacks.

Healthy Lifestyles

Detailed information on healthy lifestyle choices for teenagers

Healthy Sleep Habits

The normal amount of sleep varies depending on the age of your child. A 2-year-old needs 10 to 12 hours a night, plus naps during the day. By age 6, a child usually has dropped naps, but still needs 10 hours at night.

Hearing Aids for Children

Hearing aids can help improve hearing and speech, especially in children with hearing loss in the inner ear caused by damaged hair cells or a damaged hearing nerve.

Hearing Loss in Babies

Hearing loss in babies is rare in this country, but when it does occur, it's important to diagnose it early. Undetected hearing loss can delay speech and language development.

Hearing Loss in Children

Sensorineural hearing loss involves the inner ear or its connection with the brain. Conductive hearing loss involves the middle or outer ear.

Hearing Screening Tests for Newborns

Hearing, Speech, and Language

Detailed information on hearing, speech, and language in children

Heart Defects Causing Obstructions to Blood Flow

Detailed information on heart defects that cause obstructions in blood flow

Heart Defects Causing Too Little Blood Flow Through the Lungs

Detailed information on heart defects that cause too little blood flow through the lungs

Heart Defects Causing Too Much Blood Flow Through the Lungs

Detailed information on heart defects that cause extra blood flow through the lungs

Heart Disease and Pregnancy

In pregnancy, blood volume increases greatly. This extra fluid puts an increased workload on the heart and may cause problems for a woman with heart disease.

Heart Disorders

Detailed information on heart disorders in high-risk newborns

Heart Failure in Children

Detailed information on congestive heart failure, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Heart Murmurs in Children

Your doctor may have told you your child has a heart murmur. While that can sound scary, there are many different kinds of heart murmurs. Some heart murmurs are not even related to heart disease.

Heart Transplantation in Children

Detailed information on heart transplant, including why a heart transplant is recommended, what is involved in heart transplant surgery, and long-term outlook for a child after a heart transplant

Heart-Healthy Eating

Detailed information on heart healthy eating

Heat or Thermal Burns

A heat-induced or thermal burn can occur when the skin comes in contact with any heat source, such as a cooking pan, an iron, a fire, a hot surface, or a hot, scalding liquid.

Heat-Related Illnesses (Heat Cramps, Heat Exhaustion, Heat Stroke)

Children and teens are at greater risk for heat-related illnesses for several reasons. They adjust more slowly to changes in air temperature. They also produce more heat with activity and sweat less.

HELLP Syndrome

HELLP syndrome is a serious complication of severe pregnancy-induced high blood pressure. It usually develops before delivery, but may also occur after delivery.

Hemifacial Microsomia

Detailed information on hemifacial microsomia, including types, causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Hemoglobin C Disease

Most people carry hemoglobin A in their red blood cells. Those who carry hemoglobin C, considered an abnormal variation, may develop hemoglobin C disease. This blood disorder develops because the red blood cells break down earlier than they should, leaving too few in the blood and leading to mild anemia.

Hemoglobin E Trait

Many people with hemoglobin E trait have no symptoms. Those with more severe hemoglobin E-related disorders may experience mild thalassemia, or anemialike symptoms, but even these are rare.

Hemolytic Anemia in Children

Detailed information on aplastic anemia, including cause, symptom, diagnosis, and treatment

Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn

This condition occurs when an incompatibility exists between the blood types of the mother and baby.

Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome in Children

Detailed information on hemolytic uremic syndrome, including cause, progression, treatment, and statistics

Hemophilia

Detailed information on hemophilia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Henoch-Schönlein Purpura (HSP)

Detailed information on Henoch-Schönlein purpura, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Hepatitis B (HBV) in Children

An infant or young child who contracts hepatitis B is at greater risk of staying infected with the virus and of having life-long liver problems, such as scarring of the liver and liver cancer.

Hepatitis in Children

Six main types of the hepatitis virus that have been identified: A, B, C, D, E, and G. Vaccination can protect children from several forms of hepatitis.

Hepatoblastoma

Detailed information on hepatoblastoma, including causes, stages, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Hernia (Umbilical/Inguinal)

A hernia occurs when a section of intestine protrudes through a weakness in the abdominal muscles. In babies, this usually occurs around the navel or in the groin area.

Herpangina

Detailed information on herpangina, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Herpes

It is important that women avoid contracting herpes during pregnancy, because a first episode during pregnancy creates a greater risk of transmission to the newborn.

Herpes Simplex Virus/Cold Sores

Detailed information on cold sores and herpes simplex virus 1

Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

Detailed information on shingles, including symptoms, diagnosis, complications, and treatment

High Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents

Blood pressures vary depending on the age, height, weight, and gender of your child. Generally, blood pressure is low in infancy and rises slowly as children age.

High Blood Pressure in Teens

Detailed information on high blood pressure, also called hypertension, including symptoms, diagnostic, and treatment information

High-Risk Newborn Blood Disorders

Detailed information on blood disorders that place a newborn at higher risk and require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional

Hirschsprung's Disease

Detailed information on Hirschsprung's disease, including risks, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

HIV Home Care

Detailed information on HIV home care for your child

Hodgkin Lymphoma

Detailed information on Hodgkin's lymphoma, including causes, symptoms, staging, diagnosis, and treatment

Hodgkin Lymphoma

Detailed information on Hodgkin's lymphoma, including causes, stages, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Holter Monitoring

Detailed information on Holter or event monitoring

Home Page - Adolescent Medicine

Detailed information on adolescent medicine, including growth and development, cognitive development, relationship development, health and injury problems, and safety

Home Page - Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology

Detailed information on allergy, asthma, and immunology

Home Page - Burns

Detailed information on burns, including anatomy, classification, treatment, and prevention

Home Page - Cardiovascular Disorders

Detailed information on cardiovascular diseases in children

Home Page - Care of the Terminally Ill Child

Detailed information on care of the terminally ill child

Home Page - Child and Adolescent Mental Health

Detailed information on child and adolescent mental health disorders

Home Page - Common Childhood Injuries and Poisonings

Detailed information on the common poisonings and injuries of children

Home Page - Craniofacial Anomalies

Detailed information on craniofacial anomalies, including Cleft Lip, Cleft Palate, Craniosynostosis, Deformational Plagiocephaly, Hemifacial Microsomia, Vascular Malformations, and Hemangiomas

Home Page - Dental and Oral Health

Detailed information on dental and oral health in children

Home Page - Dermatology and Children

Detailed information on dermatology and children

Home Page - Diabetes and Other Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders

Detailed information on diabetes and other endocrine and metabolic disorders that affect children

Home Page - Digestive and Liver Disorders

Detailed information on digestive disorders in children

Home Page - Ear, Nose, and Throat

Detailed information on ear, nose, and throat disorders in children

Home Page - Eye Care and Children

Detailed information on eye disorders in children

Home Page - Genitourinary and Kidney Disorders

Detailed information on genitourinary and kidney disorders in children

Home Page - Growth and Development

Detailed information on proper health maintenance for a child

Home Page - Hematology and Blood Disorders in Children

Detailed information on blood disorders, including Anemia, Aplastic Anemia, Hemolytic Anemia, Iron Deficiency Anemia, Megaloblastic Anemia, Sickle Cell Anemia, Thalassemia, Alpha Thalassemia, Beta Thalassemia (Cooley's Anemia)

Home Page - High-Risk Newborn

Detailed information on high-risk newborns

Home Page - High-Risk Pregnancy

Detailed information on high-risk pregnancy

Home Page - Infectious Diseases in Children

Detailed information on infectious diseases in children

Home Page - Medical Genetics

Detailed information on medical genetics, including chromosome abnormalities, single gene defects, multifactorial inheritance, teratogens, and non-traditional inheritance

Home Page - Neurological Disorders

Detailed information on neurological disorders in children

Home Page - Normal Newborn

Detailed information on newborn care

Home Page - Oncology

Detailed information on cancer in children

Home Page - Orthopedics

Detailed information on orthopedic disorders in children

Home Page - Pediatric Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases

Detailed information on pediatric arthritis and other rheumatic diseases

Home Page - Pregnancy and Childbirth

Detailed information on pregnancy and childbirth, including information on birth statistics, pregnancy planning, preconception care, prenatal care, pregnancy discomforts, pregnancy tests, pregnancy risks, pregnancy warning signs, labor and delivery, breas

Home Page - Respiratory Disorders in Children

Detailed information on respiratory disorders in children

Home Page - Safety and Injury Prevention

Detailed information on safety and injury prevention of children

Home Page - The Child Having Surgery

Detailed information on surgery in children

Home Page - Transplantation

Detailed information on transplantation in children

Home Wound Care

Your child may come home with unhealed areas that still require dressing changes. You will be instructed on how to change dressings before you leave the hospital.

Hormones During Pregnancy

Many hormone levels are affected in the body during pregnancy, with several hormones playing major roles.

Horseshoe Kidney

Detailed information on horseshoe kidney, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Hospice

The goal of hospice care is to provide the terminally ill child peace, comfort, and dignity.

Household Safety Checklist

Use this list as part of a thorough safety check of your home. It can help prevent accidents and injuries.

How Chromosome Abnormalities Happen: Meiosis, Mitosis, Maternal Age, Environment

Chromosome abnormalities usually happen as a result of an error in cell division.

How Milk Is Made

Detailed information on how breast milk is made for breastfeeding

How the Liver Works

Detailed information on how the liver works, including a full-color, labeled illustration of the digestive system

Human Bites

Detailed information on human bites, including treatment for human bites

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

Most babies with HIV contract the infection from their HIV-infected mother during pregnancy, or during labor and delivery.

Human Parainfluenza Viruses (HPIVs)

Detailed information on human parainfluenza viruses, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Hyaline Membrane Disease/Respiratory Distress Syndrome

This disease is one of the most common problems of premature babies. It can cause babies to need extra oxygen and help in breathing.

Hydrocele

Detailed information on hydrocele, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a condition in which a buildup of fluid in the brain causes the pressure inside of the head to increase and the skull bones to expand to a larger-than-normal appearance.

Hydrops Fetalis

This is a life-threatening problem of severe swelling in the fetus and newborn. It develops when too much fluid leaves the bloodstream and goes into the tissues.

Hyperbilirubinemia and Jaundice

A newborn with this condition has too much bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin causes a yellowing of the baby's skin and tissues. This is called jaundice.

Hyperemesis Gravidarum

Vomiting—especially during the first trimester—is normal for many women during pregnancy. Constantly vomiting is not. Take action to prevent a serious complication.

Hyperparathyroidism in Children

Detailed information on hyperparathyroidism, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Hyperthyroidism (Graves' Disease)

Hyperthyroidism means that the thyroid gland is overactive, producing too much thyroid hormone. The excess hormone leads to an overactive metabolism.

Hyperthyroidism in Pregnancy

Uncontrolled hyperthyroidism has many effects. It may lead to preterm birth and low birthweight. It may also bring on pregnancy-induced high bloo pressure.

Hypocalcemia

A baby with this condition has too little calcium in the blood. Hypocalcemia is more common in premature and low birthweight babies.

Hypoglycemia in Children

Causes of hypoglycemia in children with diabetes may include a missed meal, too much medication, or more exercise than usual.

Hypoglycemia in the Newborn

Babies who are more likely to develop hypoglycemia include those born to women who have diabetes.

Hypoparathyroidism in Children

Detailed information on hypoparathyroidism, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Hypopituitarism in Children

Detailed information on hypopituitarism, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome is a combination of several abnormalities of the heart and great blood vessels.

Hypospadias

Hypospadias is a disorder in newborn boys in which the opening of the urethra is not located at the tip of the penis.

Hypothyroidism and Pregnancy

Signs of an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) may be masked by pregnancy. But the thyroid is important for your baby’s brain development. Learn if you should be screened for hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism in Children

Hypothyroidism is the condition in which the thyroid is underactive—producing too little thyroid hormone.

Identification, Treatment, and Prevention of Birth Defects

Detailed information on the identification, treatment, and prevention of birth defects

Identifying Teratogens

Detailed information on identifying teratogens

If Your Child Has Difficulty Adjusting

Agitated behavior such as crying, sleep disturbances and nightmares, and repeated episodes of sadness are signs that your child may be having difficulty coping with stress.

Illegal Drug Use and Pregnancy

Almost every drug passes from the mother's bloodstream through the placenta to the fetus. Illicit substances that cause drug dependence and addiction in the mother also cause the fetus to become addicted.

Immune (Idiopathic) Thrombocytopenia Purpura

Detailed information on idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Immune Deficiencies

Detailed information on immune deficiency disorders in children, including Severe Combined Immunodeficiency, Common Variable Immunodeficiency, DiGeorge Syndrome, and X-linked Agammaglobulinemia

Immune Disorders

Detailed information on the immune system and immune disorders

Impetigo

Detailed information on impetigo, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Ineffective Latch-on or Sucking

Detailed information on ineffective latch-on or sucking during breastfeeding

Infant

Detailed information on infant health

Infant Feeding Guide

How much, what, and when to feed your baby can seem daunting. But this cheat sheet will give you the information you need to start your baby on the right “nutritional” foot.

Infant Nutrition

Choosing how to feed your baby is an important decision that has life-long effects for your baby and for you.

Infant of Diabetic Mother

A baby born to a diabetic mother may need glucose orally or intravenously. The baby's blood glucose levels will be closely monitored after treatment.

Infant Play

Hang brightly colored objects near your newborn. Sing and talk to your baby. Rock your baby, and take him or her for walks.

Infant Problems of the Teeth and Mouth

Detailed information on infant problems of the teeth and mouth

Infant Sleep

If you know anything about your baby’s sleeping pattern, it’s probably that it doesn’t coincide with yours. But learning more about your baby’s nighttime and daytime sleep needs can help you recognize what’s normal—and what’s not.

Infection in Babies

Newborns are particularly susceptible to infections. One of the best ways to keep your baby infection-free is to wash your hands before and after handling him or her. Other preventive measures may also be necessary.

Infectious Diseases

Detailed information on infectious diseases in children

Infectious Mononucleosis in Adolescents

Infectious mononucleosis is caused by either the Epstein-Barr virus or the cytomegalovirus, both of which are members of the herpes simplex virus family.

Inflammatory and Infectious Digestive Disorders

Detailed information on digestive inflammatory and infectious disorders in children

Inflammatory and Infectious Musculoskeletal Disorders

Detailed information on the most common types of inflammatory and infectious disorders in children

Inflammatory and Infectious Neurological Disorders

Detailed information on the most common inflammatory and infectious disorders in children

Influenza (Flu) in Children

Influenza is a highly contagious infection of the upper respiratory system. It's one of the most severe illnesses of the winter season, affecting up to 20 percent of Americans each year.

Informed Consent

You will be asked to sign an informed consent form which states in detail that you understand the risks and benefits of your child's surgery.

Inguinal and Umbilical Hernia

Detailed information on hernia, including risks, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Inguinal Hernia in Children

Detailed information on inguinal hernia, including causes, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment

Injuries to the Teeth

The injury may be to a primary tooth or a permanent tooth. A tooth can be cracked, chipped, or totally detached from its socket.

Insect Bites and Children

Detailed information on insect bites, including fleas, mites, chiggers, and ticks

Insect Stings

Yellow jackets cause most of the allergic reactions to stings. Fire ants, found in southern states, can sting multiple times—and the sites are more likely to become infected.

Insect Stings and Allergic Reactions

For most children, the reaction to a sting is short-lived, with redness and swelling followed by pain and itching. For others, however, the allergic reaction to an insect sting can be life threatening.

Insects in the Ear

Don't attempt to remove the insect by poking it with a cotton swab. This may push the insect farther into the ear or cause damage to the middle ear and eardrum.

Installing and Using Child Safety Seats and Booster Seats

As part of your preparation for your new baby, you probably got an infant safety seat for the car. But do you know how to make sure it’s installed properly? And when do you switch to a child safety seat? Learn the ins and outs of safe car travel for your little one.

Insufficient or Delayed Milk Production

Detailed information on insufficient or delayed milk production

Intensive Care

Intensive care is needed for children who have had certain types of major surgery: heart operations, organ transplants, or neurosurgery.

Intestinal Malrotation and Volvulus

Detailed information on intestinal malrotation and volvulus, including risk, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Intraoperative Care for Children

Detailed information on intraoperative management

Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)

Newborn babies with this condition often appear thin, pale, and have loose, dry skin. The umbilical cord is often thin and dull-looking rather than shiny and fat.

Intravenous Line and Tubes

Because most babies in the NICU are too small or sick to take milk feedings, medications and fluids are often given through their veins or arteries.

Intraventricular Hemorrhage

If your baby is born prematurely, there are many worries that likely go through your mind. One of the things that can happen is bleeding on the brain. Read on to learn about this and what doctors can do help your baby.

Introducing a Bottle

You’ve been breast-feeding your baby up until now—but it’s time to return to work. You haven’t given her a bottle with breast milk yet. When should you make the change? Here are tips to make a successful transition from breast to bottle.

Intussusception

Detailed information on intussusception, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Iron Deficiency Anemia

Detailed information on aplastic anemia, including cause, symptom, diagnosis, and treatment

Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Children

Detailed information on irritable bowel syndrome, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Juvenile Ankylosing Spondylitis

Detailed information on juvenile ankylosing spondylitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Juvenile Dermatomyositis

Detailed information on juvenile dermatomyositis, including causes, symptoms, phases, diagnosis, and treatment

Juvenile Osteoporosis

Detailed information on juvenile osteoporosis, including cause, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

Detailed information on juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, including cause, symptom, diagnosis, and treatment

Kawasaki Disease

The main threat from Kawasaki disease comes from its effect on the heart and blood vessels.

Keratitis

Keratitis is an inflammation or infection of the cornea of the eye. It is a medical emergency because it can lead to blindness if not treated.

Kidney Transplantation in Children

Detailed information on kidney transplant, including why a kidney transplant is recommended, what is involved in kidney transplant surgery, and long-term outlook for a child after a kidney transplant

Knowing When to Seek Treatment for Your Child

Common symptoms of a potential emotional, behavioral, or developmental problem include poor grades in school, withdrawal from friends and family, and insomnia.

Kyphosis in Children

Detailed information on kyphosis, including cause, symptom, diagnosis, and treatment

Labor and Delivery

Detailed information on labor and delivery

Lacerations With Stitches

Stitches, also called sutures, are special types of thread that hold the edges of a wound together while it heals.

Lacerations Without Stitches

A laceration is tear or opening in the skin caused by an injury. Some lacerations are small and need only minor treatment at home.

Lactose Intolerance in Children

Detailed information on lactose intolerance, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis

Langerhans cell histiocytosis most often strikes young children and causes damage to tissues throughout the body.

Large for Gestational Age (LGA)

The average baby weighs about 7 pounds at birth. About 10 percent of all babies weigh more than 8 pounds, 13 ounces. Rarely do babies weigh over 10 pounds.

Latex Allergy in Children

Some children develop an allergy to latex. Symptoms include watery or itchy eyes, wheezing, skin rash, and itching of the skin.

Lead Poisoning in Children

Lead poisoning is a totally preventable disease. Children ages 1 to 3 who live in low-income housing built before 1978 are especially at risk.

Learning Disorders

Learning disorders are sometimes called learning disabilities. Most children with learning disorders have normal intelligence, but they have difficulty with reading, math, or another academic area.

Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease

This disease is a temporary condition that causes the hip joint to become painful and stiff.

Leukemia

Detailed information on leukemia in childhood, including symptoms, staging, diagnosis, and treatment

Levels of Asthma

Asthma levels are classified in "steps," because each child may step up or step down to different levels at any time.

Lice

Detailed information on lice, including diagnosis and treatment

Listeriosis

You’ve probably been warned not to eat brie cheese or order your steak cooked to anything less than medium. Why do you have to take these precautions? Listeriosis. Learn more about this food-borne illness and how to avoid it.

Liver Disorders

Detailed information on the most common liver disorders in children

Liver Transplantation in Children

Detailed information on liver transplantation in children

Living With Congenital Heart Disease

Detailed information for children living with a congenital heart disease

Lordosis

A spine affected by lordosis has a curve in the vertebrae in the lower back area, giving the child a "swayback" appearance.

Low Birthweight

If your baby’s birthweight was lower than normal due to premature birth or some other factor, don’t worry. With proper medical attention and your loving care, your baby will soon catch up with the other children in the nursery.

Low Milk Production

Detailed information on breastfeeding and low breast milk production

Lower Respiratory Disorders

Detailed information on lower respiratory disorders in children

Lung Transplantation in Children

Detailed information on lung transplant, including why a lung transplant is recommended, what is involved in lung transplant surgery, and long-term outlook for a child after a lung transplant

Lying and Stealing

Lying and stealing are common, but inappropriate, behaviors in school-aged children. Most of the time these behaviors will be outgrown.

Lyme Disease in Children

Lyme disease is the leading cause of all insect-borne illness in the United States. It is a year-round problem, although April through October is considered tick season.

Lymphadenopathy

Detailed information on lymphadenopathy, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Lymphatic Malformations

Detailed information on lymphatic malformation, including cause, symptom, diagnosis, and treatment

Lymphatic Masses

Detailed information on lymphatic masses in children

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Children

Detailed information on magnetic resonance imaging, including how the image is performed and what happens following the procedure

Major Depression in Children

Common symptoms of major depression include persistent feelings of sadness, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating.

Male Conditions

Detailed information on the most common male genitourinary conditions

Male Growth and Development

Detailed information on male growth and development

Male Physical Development

Detailed information on male growth and development

Malocclusion

Detailed information on malocclusion, including causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Management and Treatment of Asthma

Your child's asthma can be controlled with prescription medications that may help to prevent or relieve symptoms.

Management of Hearing Loss

A child's hearing loss may be helped with hearing aids or cochlear implants. Training in sign language and lip reading is another option.

Managing Alopecia in Children

Hair loss is a common side effect of most forms of chemotherapy. Younger children may not be bothered by hair loss, but the school-aged child or teenager may be devastated.

Managing Bone Marrow Suppression in Children

Nearly all chemotherapy drugs affect the number of blood cells in the body. When the number drops, the risk for anemia, fatigue, infection, and bleeding increases.

Managing Mucositis in Children

Mucositis can be a very troublesome and painful side effect of chemotherapy. Common symptoms include diarrhea and abdominal cramping or tenderness.

Manic Depression/Bipolar Disorder in Adolescents

Manic depression, also known as bipolar disorder, is a type of affective disorder that goes beyond the day's ordinary ups and downs. It is becoming an important health concern in this country.

Marfan Syndrome

Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder involving the body's connective tissue, including the heart, lungs, and spinal cord.

Mastalgia (Breast Pain)

The most common type of breast pain is associated with the menstrual cycle and is nearly always hormonal.

Mastitis

Detailed information on breastfeeding and mastitis

Mastoiditis

Detailed information on mastoiditis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Maternal and Fetal Infections

In pregnancy, infections are a common complication—but women may not have obvious symptoms, or they may show different symptoms of an infection.

Maternal and Fetal Infections Overview

Maternal and Fetal Testing

Women with high-risk pregnancies often need a close watch for potential problems or complications. Many tests and procedures are available to monitor the health of both mother and baby.

Maternal and Fetal Testing Overview

Maternal Nutrition and Breastfeeding

Women who are breastfeeding should eat a well-balanced, varied diet and drink enough liquids.

Maternity Leave

The length of time given for a paid maternity leave of absence varies among companies. Some women extend their maternity leaves by taking additional weeks of unpaid leave.

Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)

The MMR vaccine is given in two doses—at 12 to 15 months and at 4 to 6 years, or at least one month after the first dose.

Measurements

Measuring a Baby's Temperature

Most physicians recommend taking a baby's temperature rectally, by placing a thermometer in the baby's anus. This method is accurate and gives a quick reading of the baby's internal temperature.

Meckel's Diverticulum

Detailed information on Meckel's diverticulum, including risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Meconium Aspiration

Meconium aspiration occurs when a baby breathes in amniotic fluid containing meconium (the baby's first stools).

Medical Conditions and Pregnancy

With proper medical care, most women can enjoy a healthy pregnancy, despite medical challenges such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

Medical History and Genetic Testing

Detailed information on medical history and genetic testing

Medications and Pregnancy

All medications you take affect the fetus, depending on the stage of development, the type and dosage of the medication being taken, and your drug tolerance.

Megaloblastic (Pernicious) Anemia in Children

Detailed information on megaloblastic (pernicious) anemia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Megaureter

Detailed information on megaureter, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Meningitis in Children

Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and the spinal cord. Bacteria or viruses are the more common causes.

Meningococcal Infections

Detailed information on meningococcal infections, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Menstrual Disorders

Detailed information on the most common menstrual conditions, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder, amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, and menorrhagia

Metatarsus Adductus

Metatarsus adductus is a common foot deformity noted at birth that causes the front half of the foot, or forefoot, to turn inward.

Methods of Surgery for Children

Minimally invasive surgery is often used today. It allows the child to recuperate faster and with less pain.

Microcephaly

An infant with microcephaly has a head that is much smaller than normal for an infant of that age and gender. Most children with microcephaly also have a small brain and mental retardation.

Micropenis

Detailed information on micropenis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Migraine Headache

Many women experience migraine headaches while pregnant. The good news is that you don’t have to give in to the pain when it strikes. Know what pain-relief options are safest for you.

Milk Allergy Diet for Children

The words "non-dairy" on a product label mean that it does not contain butter, cream, or milk—but it could still contain other types of milk products.

Milk Expression

You will have to remove milk from your breasts on a regular basis if you are to provide enough of your milk for your high-risk baby.

Milk Expression Techniques

Most mothers find they get more milk in less time when using a hospital-grade, electric breast pump with a double collection kit when providing milk for high-risk newborns.

Minor Cuts, Scrapes, and Skin Wounds

Detailed information on minor cuts, scrapes, and skin wounds in children

Minor Injuries Overview

Minor Problem vs. a True Emergency

In general, take your child to an emergency room after an injury anytime you think the problem may need urgent attention.

Miscarriage

Ultrasound is usually used to diagnose miscarriage. If the fetus is no longer in the uterus, or there is no longer a fetal heartbeat, miscarriage is diagnosed.

Mismanaged Breastfeeding

Detailed information on mismanaged breastfeeding, including information on breastfeeding positions

Mitochondrial Inheritance: Leber's Optic Atrophy

Detailed information on mitochondrial inheritance and Leber's optic atrophy

Mold

Detailed information on mold allergy, including potential sources of mold inside and outside the home

Molluscum Contagiosum in Children

Detailed information on molluscum contagiosum, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Mood Disorders in Children and Adolescents

Detailed information on the most common types of mood disorders, including major depression, manic depression (bipolar disorder), dysthymia, seasonal affective disorder, and suicide

Mosaic Down Syndrome

Detailed information on mosaic Down syndrome, including the chances for it to happen again in a family

Mosaicism

Detailed information on mosaicism, including a mosaicism diagram

Motor Vehicle Safety - Identifying High-Risk Situations

High-risk situations: improperly installing a child safety seat, allowing a child to ride in the bed of a pickup truck, and leaving a child unattended in a car.

Motor Vehicle Safety Overview

Detailed information on motor vehicle safety, including installing and using child safety seats and booster seats

Motor Vehicle Safety--Injury and Incidence Statistics

Most motor vehicle crashes occur within 25 miles of home and in areas where the speed limit is 40 mph or less.

Mouthguards

Mouthguards are important to help protect your child's mouth and teeth from serious injury.

Moving Toward Breastfeeding

Learning to breastfeed effectively is a process that may take days or weeks for premature and many other high-risk babies. But you and your baby can become a breastfeeding team if you are patient and persistent.

MRSA and Children: What You Should Know

MRSA infections generally begin as skin infections. The germ invades the skin through an open sore or scrape. For children, the most common source of infection is a simple cut.

Multifactorial Inheritance and Birth Defects

Detailed information on multifactorial inheritance, including different multifactorial traits and diseases

Multiple Pregnancy

Detailed information on multiple pregnancies, including care of multiple birth babies

Multiple Sclerosis and Pregnancy

Pregnancy does not appear to speed up the course or worsen the effects of MS. Some studies have found that MS symptoms decrease in pregnancy and increase after delivery.

Mumps

Mumps is a highly contagious viral illness that usually occurs in childhood. It is no longer common in the United States because children are now vaccinated against it.

Muscle and Joint Injuries

Detailed information on muscle and joint injuries, including prevention

Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy causes the muscles in the body to become very weak. The muscles break down and are replaced with fatty deposits over time.

Mushroom Poisoning in Children

Early symptoms of mushroom poisoning include stomach cramps, vomiting, and watery or bloody diarrhea. If your child has any of these symptoms, call your child's doctor immediately.

Myasthenia Gravis and Pregnancy

Pregnant women with MG often have more weakness and fatigue because of the added weight and effort of pregnancy. Preterm labor (labor before 37 weeks of pregnancy) is more likely.

Myasthenia Gravis in Children

Myasthenia gravis is a complex, autoimmune disorder that causes problems with the nerves that communicate with muscles, resulting in weakness of the skeletal muscles.

Myringotomy Tubes

Detailed information on myringotomy tubes, including risks and benefits

Natal Teeth

Natal teeth are teeth that are present when the infant is born. They are usually the infant's primary teeth (or baby teeth) that have come in early.

Neck Abscess

Detailed information on neck abscess, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Neck Masses

Detailed information on the different types of neck masses in children

Necrotizing Enterocolitis

This condition appears to develop when the intestines are weakened by too little oxygen or blood. The weakened tissues can become severely damaged and die, which causes a hole in the intestinal wall.

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome

Neonatal abstinence syndrome is a term for a group of problems a baby experiences when withdrawing from exposure to narcotics.

Nephrotic Syndrome in Children

Detailed information on nephrotic syndrome, including types, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Neuroblastoma

Neuroblastoma is a cancerous tumor that begins in nerve tissue of infants and very young children. The abnormal cells are often found in the nerve tissue that is present in the unborn baby and later develops into a detectable tumor.

Neurocutaneous Syndromes in Children

Neurocutaneous syndrome is a broad term for a group of disorders. These diseases are life-long conditions that can cause tumors to grow inside the brain, spinal cord, organs, skin, and skeletal bones.

Neurogenic Bladder in Children

In children a neurogenic bladder may be secondary to a birth defect such as spina bifida or it may be acquired as the result of a different problem.

Neurological Conditions and Pregnancy

Detailed information on neurologic conditions in pregnancy

Neurological Disorders in the Newborn

Detailed information on the most common neurological disorders in the newborn

Neurological Examination for Children

Is it time for your baby to have a full physical exam? Your pediatrician might want to conduct a “neuro exam.” Don’t worry, this series of tests designed to evaluate your child’s nervous system is painless. Here’s what it entails.

Neuromuscular Disorders

Detailed information on the most common neuromuscular disorders in children

Newborn Appearance

A baby's skin coloring can vary greatly, depending on the baby's age, race or ethnic group, temperature, and whether or not the baby is crying. Skin color in babies often changes with both the environment and health.

Newborn Care

Detailed information on newborn care

Newborn Complications

Detailed information on the most common types of newborn complications

Newborn Health Assessment

Detailed information on newborn health assessments

Newborn Immunizations

Your newborn is fragile and needs protection from the new world. One of the first steps you can take to protect your baby is to get her vaccinated. Learn about the first scheduled immunization—the hepatitis B vaccine—and how it keeps your baby safe from serious illness.

Newborn Multiples

Because many multiples are small and born early, they may be initially cared for in a special care nursery called the neonatal intensive care unit.

Newborn Screening Tests

Newborn Warning Signs

Warning signs that may indicate a possible problem in your newborn include no urine in the first 24 hours at home; a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher; or a rapid breathing rate.

Newborn-Crying

Crying is the way babies communicate. They cry because of hunger, discomfort, frustration, fatigue, and even loneliness.

Newborn-Reflexes

Ever wonder why your baby flings his arms out sideways when startled? This reaction—called the Moro reflex—is one of many natural reflexes your newborn should exhibit. Read on to learn about common newborn reflexes and what they mean.

Newborn-Senses

Babies are born with the ability to focus only at close range—about eight to 10 inches, or the distance between a mother's face to the baby in her arms.

Newborn-Sleep Patterns

You’ve spent nine months doing everything to ensure your baby arrives healthy. Now that your baby is here, you have another important decision to make: Finding pediatrician that is right for you and your baby.

Nightmares and Night Terrors

A night terror is a partial waking from sleep with behaviors such as screaming, kicking, panic, sleep walking, thrashing, or mumbling.

Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Children

Detailed information on non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, including causes, staging, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Noninfectious Skin Conditions

Detailed information on non-infectious skin conditions, including dermatitis, acne, drug rashes, poison ivy/poison oak, and toxic epidermal necrolysis

Nonstress Testing

Detailed information on nonstress testing

Nontraditional Inheritance

Detailed information on nontraditional inheritance, including uniparental disomy and Prader-Willi Syndrome and Angelman Syndrome, trinucleotide repeats and Fragile-X Syndrome, and mitochondrial inheritance and Leber's Optic Atrophy

Normal Breast Development

Breast development occurs in distinct stages, first before birth, and again at puberty and during the childbearing years. Changes also occur to the breasts during menstruation and when a woman reaches menopause.

Normal Growth

A child's growth not only involves the length and weight of his or her body, but also internal growth and development.

Normal Newborn Behaviors and Activities

Detailed information on normal newborn behaviors and activities

Normal Vision

Light enters the eye through the cornea and passes through the pupil. It then hits the lens, which focuses the light rays on the retina. The optic nerve carries the image from the retina to the brain.

Nose and Throat Disorders

Detailed information on nose and throat disorders in children

Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds are fairly common in children, especially in dry climates or during the winter months, when dry heat inside homes and buildings can cause drying, cracking, or crusting inside the nose.

Numerical Abnormalities: Overview of Trisomies and Monosomies

Detailed information on numerical abnormalities, including an overview on trisomies and monosomies

Nursemaid's Elbow

Nursemaid's elbow occurs when the radius—one of the bones in the forearm—slips out of place from where it normally attaches to the elbow joint.

Nursing Bottle Caries

Did you know that babies can get cavities? They can—usually when they go to bed with a bottle filled with milk or juice. Find out how to prevent this type of tooth decay, which is also called nursing bottle caries.

Nutrition and Burns

A child who has been burned needs additional calories and protein to help him or her heal and grow.

Nutrition and Fluids

When your baby is in the neonatal intensive care unit, your main concern is getting her healthy and home. Taking food by the mouth and gaining weight are two important steps toward that goal. Find out what happens to help your baby get there, including the role you play.

Nutrition and Nephrotic Syndrome

Detailed information on nephrotic syndrome, including nutrition and diet

Nutrition and Renal Failure

Detailed information on nutrition and renal failure in children

Nutrition During Pregnancy

Not only is eating nutritious food good for you and your baby, it also can ease some of the discomforts of pregnancy. A balanced diet can help minimize symptoms such as nausea and constipation.

Nutrition Index

Detailed nutrition information for mothers who are breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, and toddlers, preschool-aged children, school-aged children, and adolescents

Nutritional Requirements for a Child With Cancer

Good nutrition is vital for children being treated for cancer, yet these young patients often have poor appetites.

Obesity in Adolescents

Children who are inactive—spending time watching TV or sitting at a computer—are at higher risk for obesity, especially when their diet contains lots of high-calorie foods and beverages.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Children

Rituals and obsessive thoughts are a normal part of a teen's development. An adolescent with OCD has obsessive thoughts that are unwanted and related to fears.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Detailed information on obstructive sleep apnea, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Omphalocele

An infant with an omphalocele has a portion of the abdominal organs protruding through an opening in the muscles near the umbilical cord.

Online Resources - Adolescent Medicine

List of online resources to find additional information on adolescent medicine

Online Resources - Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology

List of online resources to find additional information on allergy and asthma

Online Resources - Burns

List of online resources to find additional information on burns

Online Resources - Cardiovascular Disorders

List of online resources to find additional information on cardiovascular disorders in children

Online Resources - Care of the Terminally Ill Child

List of online resources to find additional information on terminal illness in children

Online Resources - Child and Adolescent Mental Health

List of online resources to find additional information on mental health

Online Resources - Common Childhood Injuries and Poisonings

List of online resources to find additional information on common poisonings and injuries of children

Online Resources - Craniofacial Anomalies

List of online resources to find additional information on cardiovascular disorders in children

Online Resources - Dental and Oral Health

List of online resources to find additional information on dental and oral health in children

Online Resources - Dermatology for Children

List of online resources to find additional information on dermatology and common skin conditions

Online Resources - Diabetes and Other Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders

List of online resources to find additional information on diabetes and other endocrine and metabolic disorders

Online Resources - Digestive and Liver Disorders

List of online resources to find additional information on digestive disorders

Online Resources - Ear, Nose, and Throat

List of online resources to find additional information on ear, nose, and throat disorders

Online Resources - Eye Care for Children

List of online resources to find additional information on eye care

Online Resources - Genitourinary and Kidney Disorders

List of online resources to find additional information on genitourinary and kidney disorders in children

Online Resources - Growth and Development

List of online resources to find additional information on growth and development

Online Resources - Hematology and Blood Disorders in Children

List of online resources to find additional information on blood disorders

Online Resources - High-Risk Newborn

List of online resources to find additional information on high-risk newborns

Online Resources - High-Risk Pregnancy

List of online resources to find additional information on high-risk pregnancies

Online Resources - Infectious Diseases in Children

List of online resources to find additional information on infectious diseases

Online Resources - Medical Genetics

List of online resources to find additional information on medical genetics

Online Resources - Neurological Disorders

List of online resources to find additional information on nervous system disorders

Online Resources - Normal Newborn

List of online resources to find additional information on newborn care

Online Resources - Oncology

List of online resources to find additional information on cancer in children

Online Resources - Orthopedics

List of online resources to find additional information on orthopedics

Online Resources - Pediatric Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases

List of online resources to find additional information on pediatric arthritis and other rheumatic diseases

Online Resources - Respiratory Disorders

List of online resources to find additional information on respiratory disorders

Online Resources - Respiratory Disorders in Children

List of online resources to find additional information on respiratory disorders

Online Resources - Safety and Injury Prevention

List of online resources to find additional information on safety and injury prevention in children

Online Resources - The Child Having Surgery

List of online resources to find additional information on surgery

Online Resources - Transplantation

List of online resources to find additional information on transplantation

Oppositional Defiant Disorder

This behavior disorder is characterized by uncooperative, defiant, negativistic, irritable, and annoying behaviors toward parents, peers, teachers, and other authority figures.

Oral Health

Detailed information on oral health problems and teens

Oral Health and Dental Specialists

A general dentist has had three or more years of undergraduate college education plus four years of dental school.

Orthodontics/Braces for Children

Orthodontics is the dental specialty that focuses on the development, prevention, and correction of irregularities of the teeth, bite, and jaws.

Orthopedic Problems

Detailed information on orthopedic problems and teens

Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Osgood-Schlatter disease is an overuse condition or injury of the knee that causes pain and swelling below the knee area over the shin bone.

Osteogenesis Imperfecta in Children

Osteogenesis imperfecta is also known as brittle-bone disease because it is characterized by bones that break easily without a specific cause.

Osteomyelitis in Children

Detailed information on osteomyelitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Osteosarcoma

Detailed information on osteosarcoma, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Osteosarcoma in Children

Detailed information on osteosarcoma, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Other Arrangements: Rings and Inversions

Detailed information on other chromosome arrangements, including rings and inversions

Other Benign Skin Growths in Children

Detailed information on benign skin growths, including dermatofibromas, dermoid cyst, freckles, keloids, lipomas, moles, atypical moles, pyogenic granulomas

Otitis Externa (Swimmer's Ear)

Swimmer's ear is caused by fungi or bacteria that are encouraged to grow because of water that remains trapped in the ear canal after swimming.

Otitis Media (Middle Ear Infection)

Otitis media is inflammation in the middle ear. Otitis media can occur as a result of a cold, sore throat, or respiratory infection.

Overactive Adrenal Glands/Cushing's Syndrome in Children

Detailed information on Cushing's syndrome and overactive adrenal glands, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Over-Active Let-Down

Many nursing mothers worry if their babies aren’t getting enough milk—but what if the opposite were true? Here’s what you can do to make sure your aren’t overwhelming your baby during feeding time.

Overuse Injuries

Detailed information on overuse injuries in children, including jumper's knee, patellar tendonitis, little leaguers' elbow, little leaguers' shoulder, osteochondritis dissecans, Sever's disease, shin splints, Sinding-Larsen-Johansson disease, spondylolisthesis, and spondylolysis

Overview of Adolescent Health Problems

Overview of Adrenal Disorders

Overview of Birth Defects

A "birth defect" is a health problem or physical change that is present in a baby at the time he/she is born.

Overview of Blood and Blood Components

Human blood consists of about 22 percent solids and 78 percent water. The components of blood are plasma, fat globules, chemicals, and gases.

Overview of Chromosome Abnormalities

Detailed information on chromosome abnormalities, including how a chromosome is inherited

Overview of Craniofacial Anomalies

Detailed information on craniofacial anomalies, including cleft lip, cleft palate, craniosynostosis, hemifacial microsomia, vascular malformation, hemangioma, and deformational plagiocephaly

Overview of Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disease that involves the regulation of blood sugar and occurs in two different forms, type 1 and type 2.

Overview of Diagnostic Tests for Nervous System Disorders in Children

Evaluating and diagnosing damage to the nervous system can be complicated. Many of the same symptoms occur in different combinations among the different disorders, and many disorders do not have definitive causes, markers, or tests.

Overview of Genitourinary Disorders

Detailed information on genitourinary disorders in children

Overview of Kidney Disorders in Children

Detailed information on kidney conditions, including kidney function, nephrology, kidney problem causes and 1 labeled, full-color anatomical illustration

Overview of Labor

Labor usually starts two weeks before or after the estimated date of delivery. However, no one knows exactly what triggers the onset of labor.

Overview of Mood Disorders in Children and Adolescents

Mood disorders in teens remain one of the most under-diagnosed mental health problems. These disorders also put teens at risk for other conditions that may persist long after the initial episodes of depression are resolved.

Overview of Multiple Pregnancy

Multiple pregnancy is a pregnancy with two or more fetuses. In the United States, the multiple birth rate is rising.

Overview of Neck Masses

Detailed information on neck masses in children

Overview of Nervous System Disorders in Children

The most common symptoms of nervous system disorders in children include delays in developmental milestones, an increase or lack of growth in head size, and a lack of coordination.

Overview of Newborn Screening for Birth Defects

Every state requires newborn babies to be screened for birth defects that may not be apparent from a physical exam. Generally, the baby’s heel is pricked to draw a blood sample soon after birth. Here is what is done with your baby’s blood.

Overview of Pacemakers and Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators (ICDs) in Children

Detailed information on living with a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator

Overview of Pregnancy Loss

Pregnancy loss occurs in more than half of early pregnancies. Most of these occur so early that the mother does not even know she is pregnant.

Overview of Renal Failure in Children

Detailed information on renal failure, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Overview of Single Gene Defects

Detailed information on single gene defects and patterns of inheritance

Overview of the Male Anatomy

The male reproductive anatomy includes the bladder, epididymis, penis, scrotum, and prostate gland.

Pain Control

If your child has moderate to severe pain, he or she may receive narcotics during and after surgery. If your child is in the ICU after surgery, he or she may receive sedatives along with pain medications.

Pain Management and Children

When a child has cancer, one of his or her greatest fears is pain. Every effort should be made to ease the pain during the treatment process.

Pain Management and Itching

Most children with burns have pain, which can be controlled with medication. They also usually experience itching at some point during the healing process.

Pap Test for Adolescents

A Pap test, along with a pelvic examination, is an important part of a female's routine health care because it may detect abnormalities that can lead to invasive cancer.

Parasitic Skin Infections

Detailed information on parasitic skin infections, including scabies and lice

Parenting in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

In most cases, you can be with your baby in the NICU at any time. The staff of the NICU will give you instructions on special handwashing techniques before entering the area.

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)

PDA is a heart problem in which the connection between the aorta and pulmonary artery remains open after birth, instead of closing as it should.

Peak Flow Meters/Oximeters/Spirometers

These three types of tools are used to measure how well your child's asthma is under control.

Peanut Allergy Diet for Children

Ethnic foods, commercially prepared baked goods, and candy can be cross-contaminated with peanuts, because peanuts are frequently used in these types of foods.

Pedestrian Safety

Children are at higher risk for pedestrian injury and death because they often don't understand traffic rules or the danger that vehicles pose. In addition, parents and caregivers often overestimate a child's traffic skills.

Pediatric Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases Statistics

Statistical information relating to pediatric arthritis and other rheumatic diseases

Pediatric Blood Disorders

Detailed information on blood disorders, including Anemia, Aplastic Anemia, Hemolytic Anemia, Iron Deficiency Anemia, Megaloblastic Anemia, Sickle Cell Anemia, Thalassemia, Alpha Thalassemia, Beta Thalassemia (Cooley's Anemia)

Pediatric Glossary - Dermatology

Glossary of terms relating to dermatology and common skin conditions for patients and consumers

Pediatric Glossary - Eye Care

Glossary of terms relating to eye care

Pediatric Glossary - Infectious Diseases

Glossary of terms relating to infectious diseases

Pediatric Glossary - Respiratory Disorders

Glossary of terms relating to respiratory disorders

Pericarditis in Children

Pericarditis is inflammation or infection of the pericardium, the thin sac that surrounds the heart.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal diseases, also called gum diseases, are serious bacterial infections that destroy the gums and the surrounding tissues of the mouth.

Periventricular Leukomalacia (PVL)

The head is one of the most fragile parts on your baby, especially after birth. Sometimes, damage can occur, particularly if your baby is born prematurely. One type of brain damage is called periventricular leukomalacia. Read on to better understand what this diagnosis means for you and your baby, and what doctors can do to help.

Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension

In this condition, a newborn's circulation changes back to the circulation of a fetus, where much of the blood flow bypasses the lungs.

Pervasive Developmental Disorders

Children with PDD have difficulty with language, communication, socialization, and motor behaviors. Autism is an example of a PDD.

Pets and Infectious Diseases in Children

One way to prevent the spread of disease from your pet: Feed your pet a balanced diet and avoid having your pet eat raw foods or drink out of the toilet.

Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis in Children

Detailed information on pharyngitis and tonsillitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Detailed information on phenytoin (Dilantin) and its role in the development of Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome

Pheochromocytoma

Detailed information on pheochromocytoma, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Phimosis and Paraphimosis

Detailed information on phimosis and paraphimosis, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Phobias in Children and Adolescents

Common phobias include fear of animals, blood, heights, closed spaces, or flying. In teens, the fear must last at least six months to be considered a phobia.

Phosphorus Restriction

Detailed information on controlling phosphorus in your child's diet

Physical Abnormalities

Detailed information on physical abnormalities of high-risk newborns

Physical Examination

Detailed information on childhood physical examinations

Physical Examination of the Newborn

Physical Examination: Adolescent Male

Detailed information on what males can expect during a physical examination

Physical Needs of the Dying Child

A terminally ill child has many of the same needs as any seriously ill child, including a routine for sleep and rest, and for pain management.

Pilomatrixoma

Detailed information on pilomatrixoma, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Pityriasis Rosea in Children

Detailed information on pityriasis rosea, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Planning a Pregnancy

Planning ahead and taking care of yourself before becoming pregnant is the best thing you can do for you and your baby.

Play

Detailed information on the stages of play for all ages

Play Therapy

Play therapy is used to help children understand and cope with illness, surgery, hospitalization, treatments, and procedures.

Plugged Milk Ducts

For mothers who breastfeed, some may be more susceptible to plugged ducts than others. Get some quick tips on how to avoid and manage this concern, so you can keep you and your baby happy and healthy!

Pneumococcus

Pneumococcus bacteria can cause serious illness in children, including pneumonia, infection in the blood, and meningitis.

Pneumonia in Children

Detailed information on pneumonia, including different types, diagnosis, and treatment

Pneumothorax

Pneumothorax is a lung disorder in which air in the lungs leaks out through holes in the lung tissue into the spaces outside the lung airways.

Poison Ivy and Children

Detailed information on poison ivy/poison oak, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Poisons and Children

Detailed information on poisoning, preventing poisoning and how to respond in an emergency

Polio (IPV)

The poliovirus destroys the nervous system, causing paralysis. Today, polio is extremely rare in the United States because of the polio vaccine. It's still common in other countries, though, so children still need to be immunized.

Poliomyelitis (Polio) in Children

Detailed information on poliomyelitis, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Pollen and Children

Detailed information on pollen allergy, also called hay fever, including information on which plants produce the most pollen and allergic rhinitis prevention during pollen season

Polycystic Kidney Disease

Detailed information on the different types of polycystic kidney disease, including autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease, autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease, and acquired cystic kidney disease

Polycythemia

Mild polycythemia may not cause problems, but too many red blood cells can increase the blood volume or thicken the blood, making it harder to circulate through the blood system and to the organs.

Posterior Pituitary Disorders

Detailed information on posterior pituitary disorders

Posterior Urethral Valves

Detailed information on posterior urethral valves, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Postmaturity

The most common symptoms of postmaturity in a baby are dry, peeling skin; overgrown nails; and abundant scalp hair.

Postoperative Care

Detailed information on postoperative management

Postpartum Care

Detailed information on caring for the mother physically and emotionally following childbirth, including information on postpartum depression

Postpartum Hemorrhage

Postpartum hemorrhage is excessive bleeding after the birth of a baby. Most postpartum hemorrhage occurs right after delivery, but it can occur later as well.

Postpartum Thyroiditis

Postpartum thyroiditis is a temporary but fairly common condition that results in either an overactive or underactive thyroid.

Post-Term Pregnancy

A pregnancy that lasts more than 42 weeks is considered post-term. Post-term pregnancy is associated with longer labors and the need for cesarean delivery.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Children

A serious accident such as a car wreck, or a natural disaster such as a flood can cause PTSD in a child. Physical or sexual abuse and neglect can be other causes.

Potassium Restriction

Detailed information on adding potassium to your child's diet

Precocious Puberty (Early Puberty)

Detailed information on precocious puberty, including causes, symptom, diagnosis, and treatment

Preconception Care

Detailed information on preconception care

Pregnancy

Detailed information on pregnancy and childbirth, including information on birth statistics, pregnancy planning, preconception care, prenatal care, pregnancy discomforts, pregnancy tests, pregnancy risks, pregnancy warning signs, labor and delivery, breas

Pregnancy and Medical Conditions

Detailed information on pregnancy and medical conditions

Pregnancy and the Nervous System

Do you know how your nervous system works? This system coordinates all your body’s activities, and chances are it’s functioning normally during your pregnancy. In the rare case that it’s not, here’s what you need to know.

Pregnancy Complications

Detailed information on the most common complications during pregnancy

Pregnancy Loss

Detailed information on pregnancy loss, including types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Pregnancy Over Age 30

Many women today are waiting until later in life to have children. In the United States, birth rates for women in their 30s are at the highest levels in three decades.

Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM)/Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM)

Rupture of the membranes near the end of pregnancy may be caused by a natural weakening of the membranes or from the force of contractions.

Prematurity

Other terms often used for prematurity are preterm and "preemie." Many premature babies also weigh less than 5.5 pounds and may be referred to as low birthweight.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Most females experience some unpleasant or uncomfortable symptoms during their menstrual cycle. The type and intensity of symptoms vary.

Prenatal Counseling

Detailed information on prenatal diagnosis to detect fetal abnormalities in the womb

Prenatal Medical Care

It may seem like you are having a lot of appointments, but regular visits to your doctor are an important part of a healthy pregnancy. You and your growing baby will be carefully monitored, with tests done to assess any potential risks and develop a treatment plan, if needed.

Preoperative Management for Children

Detailed information on preoperative management

Preoperative Visit with the Surgeon

This is the time to ask questions: What are the expected results? What are the possible risks and complications? How long will the surgery take?

Preparing a Child for Surgery

Detailed information on preparing the child having surgery

Preparing for Your New Baby

Detailed information on preparing for your new baby

Preparing Siblings for Surgery

When your child goes to the hospital, brothers and sisters may feel afraid, worried, or confused. They are often afraid simply because they do not know what to expect, and they may imagine the worst.

Preparing the Family

Most families soon find ways to adjust to the changes that take place after a baby is born. But it is helpful to prepare some family members for what is ahead.

Preparing the Infant for Surgery

It's important to keep your baby's routine the same before the day of surgery. Make sure you, your baby, and your family are well rested.

Preparing the Preschooler for Surgery

One of the major fears preschoolers have is fear of the unknown. Tell your child about the surgery several days before the procedure and perhaps even visit the hospital for a tour.

Preparing the School-Aged Child for Surgery

Have your child explain back to you what is going to happen in the hospital. School-aged children sometimes will listen carefully, but not understand all that was said.

Preparing the Teenager for Surgery

Allow your teen to be part of the decision-making process. Encourage him or her to make a list of questions to ask the doctors and nurses.

Preparing the Toddler for Surgery

Read books to your toddler about going to the hospital. Keep any explanations simple and be careful of the words you use.

Preschool (4 to 5 Years)

Detailed information on preschool-aged children, ages 4 to 5 years

Preschool and School-Aged Problems of the Teeth and Mouth

Detailed information on preschool and school-aged problems of the teeth and mouth

Preschool Play

A preschooler needs space in which to run and explore. Take him or her on trips to the playground, park, or beach. Encourage him or her to play with other children.

Preschooler Nutrition

Preschool children are still developing their eating habits and need encouragement to eat healthy meals and snacks.

Preterm Labor

Preterm birth is the greatest problem associated with preterm labor. Although most babies are born after 37 weeks, those born preterm are at increased risks for many complications.

Preventing Burn Injuries

Here are safety tips: Periodically, check electrical plugs and cords for dirt or fraying. When cooking with hot oil, keep your child a safe distance from the stove. Teach your child to stay away from lighters and matches.

Preventing Injuries--How You Can Help Your Child

You can help your child by being prepared and preventing injuries from occurring. It is important to take charge of your child's health and follow a program designed to help you and your family stay healthy and safe.

Preventing Scars and Contractures

Most second- and third-degree burns cause scarring. Physical therapists will work with your child to prevent or reduce scarring.

Prevention of Infectious Disease

Detailed information on prevention of infectious diseases

Prevention of Oral Problems

Detailed information on the prevention of oral diseases and dental problems

Problems Affecting the Coronary Arteries and Blood Vessels

Detailed information on problems affecting the coronary arteries and blood vessels of children

Problems Affecting the Lower Digestive Tract

Detailed information on problems affecting the lower digestive tract of children

Problems Affecting the Upper Digestive Tract

Detailed information on problems affecting the upper digestive tract of children

Problems in Prenatal Development of the Digestive Tract

Detailed information on problems in prenatal development of the digestive tract

Problems in Puberty

Detailed information on problems in puberty, including precocious puberty, gonadotropin-independent precocious puberty, and delayed puberty

Problems Involving Heart Rhythm

Detailed information on problems involving heart rhythm

Problems With Vision

Eye disorders in children are either refractive or non-refractive errors. Refractive errors are those caused by the shape of the eye. Non-refractive errors are caused by disease.

Procedures and Equipment in NICU

NICUs are equipped with complex machines and devices to monitor nearly every system of a baby's body—temperature, heart rate, breathing, oxygen and carbon dioxide levels, and blood pressure.

Protein Restriction

Detailed information on adding protein to your child's diet

Prune Belly Syndrome

Detailed information on prune belly syndrome, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Psoriatic Arthritis in Children

Detailed information on psoriatic arthritis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Psychiatric Treatment Team

Team members may include a child and adolescent psychiatrist, a psychologist, a social worker, and a psychiatric nurse.

Psychological Complications of Chronic Illness

Adolescence is a stressful time of life even for physically healthy teens. Chronic illness further complicates adolescent development.

Psychosocial Needs of the Dying Child

The child with a terminal illness has the same need for love, emotional support, and normal activities as any person facing death.

Puberty: Adolescent Female

Girls experience puberty as a sequence of events, and their pubertal changes usually begin before boys of the same age. The first pubertal change in girls usually is breast development.

Puberty: Adolescent Male

Detailed information on puberty and the adolescent male

Pulmonary Atresia (PA)

PA is a serious heart defect in which the pulmonary valve does not allow blood to flow from the heart to the lungs to pick up oxygen.

Pulmonary Stenosis

Pulmonary stenosis affects the leaflets of the pulmonary valve, making it difficult for blood to flow from the right ventricle to the lungs.

Puncture Wounds

A puncture wound is a deep wound made by a sharp object. This type of wound may become infected easily because dirt and germs are carried deep into the tissues.

Pyloric Stenosis

Pyloric stenosis is a problem that affects babies between 2 and 8 weeks of age and causes forceful vomiting that can lead to dehydration.

Questions to Ask Your Child's Doctor

Parents are entitled to a clear explanation about anything related to their child's condition. Here are some important questions you may consider asking your child's doctor.

Rabies in Children

Rabies occurs mainly in skunks, raccoons, foxes, coyotes, and bats. In some areas, these wild animals infect domestic cats, dogs, and livestock.

Recognizing Urologic or Gynecologic Problems

Vaginal bleeding and discharge are a normal part of a teen girl's menstrual cycle. If your daughter notices anything different or unusual, talk with your teen's health care provider.

Recovery Room/Post-Anesthesia Care Unit

Once surgery has been completed, your child will be brought to the recovery room, also called the post-anesthesia care unit.

Refractive Errors in Children

The most common refractive errors in children are nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

Relationship Development

Adolescent attention often shifts to a more intense focus on social interactions and friendships expanding from same sex friends to same sex groups of friends to heterosexual groups of friends.

Renal Failure

Detailed information on renal failure, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and diet

Respiratory Disorders in the Newborn

Detailed information on respiratory disorders in high-risk newborns

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis—inflammation of the lower airways—and pneumonia in babies.

Retinoblastoma

Detailed information on retinoblastoma, including causes, stages, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Retinopathy of Prematurity

A premature baby comes with many special concerns, and eye health is an important one. Some premature babies develop retinopathy of prematurity, or abnormal blood vessel development in the retina of the eye. Learn about this complication and find out why screenings are so important.

Returning Home After a Burn Injury

Detailed information for helping your child if he/she has difficulty adjusting following a burn injury

Reye Syndrome

Reye syndrome is a rare condition that can affect children between ages 4 and 12. The more common cases occur in conjunction with a previous viral infection, such as the flu or chicken pox.

Rh Disease

Rh disease occurs during pregnancy when there is an incompatibility between the blood types of the mother and baby.

Rhabdomyosarcoma

Detailed information on rhabdomyosarcoma, including causes, stages, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Rheumatic Fever

Detailed information on rheumatic fever, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Rheumatic Heart Disease in Children

Rheumatic heart disease is a condition in which permanent damage to heart valves is caused by rheumatic fever.

Risk Factors

Detailed information on identifying potential risks of a pregnancy as an important part of preconception care

Risks to Pregnancy

Detailed information on the most common risks to pregnancy, including information on alcohol and pregnancy, smoking and pregnancy, drugs and pregnancy, medications during pregnancy, and pre-existing conditions and pregnancy

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Children

This infection is caused by a tick bite. Common symptoms are fever and a non-itchy rash that usually starts on the hands, arms, feet, and legs seven to 10 days after the bite.

Roseola

Detailed information on roseola, including cause, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Rotavirus Infections

Detailed information on rotavirus, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Roundworm Infections in Children

Children are more likely to be infected with roundworms because they are more likely to put their contaminated fingers in their mouths.

Rubella (German Measles) in Children

Detailed information on rubella, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Rubeola (Measles)

Detailed information on measles, including symptoms, complications, prevention, and treatment

Rumination Syndrome

Rumination syndrome is a rare disorder in which the child eats meals normally, but after about an hour or two, undigested food comes back up into his or her mouth.

Safer Sex Guidelines for Adolescents

The only safe sex is no sex, most health care providers say. But certain precautions and safe behaviors can minimize a person's risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease.

Safety and Injury Prevention for Teens

Detailed information on safety and injury prevention for teens

Scabies in Children

Detailed information on scabies, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Scarlet Fever

Detailed information on scarlet fever, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Schizophrenia in Children

Detailed information on schizophrenia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

School Refusal

School phobia can be seen in young children going to school for the first time, in older children who fear a bully or mean teacher, and in children who are anxious about leaving their parents.

School-Age (6 to 12 Years)

Detailed information on the school-aged child, ages 6 to 12 years

School-Aged Child Nutrition

Eating healthy after-school snacks is important at this age, as these snacks may contribute up to one-third of the total calorie intake for the day.

Scleroderma in Children

Detailed information on scleroderma, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Scoliosis in Children

Detailed information on scoliosis, including types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Sealants

Dental sealants are thin, plastic films painted on the chewing surfaces of the molars and premolars. They are highly effective in preventing tooth decay.

Seborrheic Dermatitis (Cradle Cap)

Cradle cap can occur on the scalp, diaper area, face, neck, and trunk. Symptoms include dry or greasy scales.

Second Trimester Prenatal Screening Tests

Screening is usually performed by taking a sample of the mother's blood between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy (16th to 18th is ideal).

Second-Degree Burns

Second-degree burns involve the outer and middle layers of skin. The burn site appears red and blistered, and may be swollen and painful.

Seizures and Epilepsy in Children

A seizure occurs when parts of the brain receive a burst of abnormal electrical signals that temporarily interrupts normal electrical brain function.

Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety usually begins around 6 months of age. Babies may suddenly be afraid of familiar people such as babysitters or grandparents.

Separation Anxiety Disorder

All children and teens experience some anxiety—it's a normal part of growing up. When worries and fears abnormally focus on separation from home or family, the child may have separation anxiety disorder.

Sepsis

Sepsis is a term for severe infection that spreads throughout the body. Sepsis in a newborn is more likely to develop when the mother has had pregnancy complications that increase the likelihood of infection.

Septic (Infectious) Arthritis

Detailed information on infectious arthritis, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in Children

Detailed information on SARS, including symptoms, prevention, and treatment

Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID)

Detailed information on severe combined immunodeficiency, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Sex During Pregnancy

In most cases, sex during pregnancy is safe. In fact, with your doctor's approval, sexual relations can continue until delivery.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Women suffer more frequent and severe symptoms from STDs. Some STDs can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, which can lead to both infertility and ectopic pregnancy.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Adolescents

STDs are among the most common infectious diseases in this country—the United States has the highest rates of STDs in the industrialized world.

Shellfish Allergy Diet for Children

Detailed information on shellfish allergy, a type of food allergy, including how to read a label for an shellfish-free diet

Sickle Cell Disease and Pregnancy

Whether it’s your first or third trimester, you’re likely to face changes to your sleep habits while pregnant. Discover what it takes to feel rested no matter what stage you’re in.

Sickle Cell Disease in Children

Sickle cell disease involves the red blood cells, or hemoglobin, and their ability to carry oxygen.

Signs and Symptoms of Potential Eye Problems

Symptoms of eye problems in children include crossed eyes, redness in the eyes, squinting, and excessive tearing.

Signs of Pregnancy / The Pregnancy Test

The signs of pregnancy vary from woman to woman, but the most obvious sign usually is a missed period.

Signs of Problems in Speech, Language, and Hearing Development:

Detailed information on speech, language, and hearing problems during development

Signs of Respiratory Distress in Children

Detailed information on the signs of respiratory distress

Single Gene Defects

Detailed information on single gene defects and patterns of inheritance

Sinusitis in Children

Detailed information on sinusitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Skin Cancer in Children

Detailed information on skin cancer, including causes, types, risk factors, and prevention

Skin Color Changes

The color of a baby's skin can often help identify possible problems in another area of the body. It is important for you to call your doctor if certain skin color changes occur.

Skin Injury in Children

Detailed information on skin injuries, including blisters, burns, sunburn, and bites

Skin Pigment Disorders

Detailed information on the most common types of skin pigment disorders, including albinism, melasma, vitiligo, and skin pigment loss following sun damage

Skin Tests

Detailed information on the most common types of skin tests, including patch testing, skin biopsy, and skin culture

Sleep

Detailed information on healthy sleep habits of children, including information on nightmares and night terrors

Sleeping During Pregnancy

The best sleeping position for you is on your side, especially the left side, because it allows for maximum blood flow to the fetus and improves your kidney function.

Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis

Detailed information on slipped capital femoral epiphysis, including cause, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Slow or Poor Infant Weight Gain

Are you concerned that your little one has slow or poor weight gain? Unsure? This article will help you sort out your questions and concerns.

Small Cuts and Scrapes

Wash the cut area well with soap and water, but do not scrub the wound. A dirty cut or scrape that is not thoroughly cleaned can cause scarring.

Small for Gestational Age

Although some babies are small because of genetics (their parents are small), most SGA babies are small because of fetal growth problems that occur during pregnancy.

Smoking

Ninety percent of new smokers are children and teenagers. In many cases, they are replacing the smokers who quit or died prematurely from a smoking-related disease.

Smoking and Pregnancy

Don't smoke during your pregnancy and limit how much time you spend in environments where there is secondhand smoke.

Snake Bites and Children

Treat all bites as if they were from a venomous snake and get your child to a hospital emergency room as quickly as possible.

Sodium and Fluid Restriction

Detailed information on controlling sodium and fluid in your child's diet

Sore Nipples

Detailed information on breastfeeding and sore nipples

Soy Allergy Diet for Children

Detailed information on soy allergy, a type of food allergy, including how to read a label for a soy-free diet and other potential sources of soy or soy product

Special Care

Premature babies especially need a supportive environment to help them continue to mature and develop as they would in their mother's womb.

Spider Bites in Children

In the United States, two spiders that can cause serious problems are the black widow and the brown recluse spiders. Both of these spiders are found in warm climates.

Spina Bifida

Spina bifida can occur in the early weeks of pregnancy, before you even know you are expecting. That’s why your baby is depending on you to have healthy habits in place from the start. Learn more about the prevention and treatment of this birth defect.

Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Spinal muscular atrophy is a genetic disease that affects the spinal cord and nerves, resulting in muscle wasting and weakness.

Spinal Tap or Lumbar Puncture

A spinal tap, also called lumbar puncture, is done to measure the amount of pressure in the spinal canal and/or to remove a small amount of cerebral spinal fluid for testing.

Splinters

A splinter is a sharp sliver of wood, glass, or other debris that is lodged underneath the skin. Removal of small, superficial splinters can usually be done at home.

Sports Injuries and Children

Detailed information on sports injuries in children, including overuse injuries, sprains, strains, and heat-related illnesses

Sports Injuries Statistics

Detailed information on sports safety

Sports Injury Prevention

Detailed information on sports safety, including safety gear and equipment

Sports Injury Statistics

Detailed information on sports injuries in children

Sports Safety - Injury Statistics and Incidence Rates

Almost one-third of all injuries incurred in childhood are sports-related injuries. By far, the most common injuries are sprains and strains.

Sports Safety for Children

Because they are still growing, children are more susceptible to sports injuries. Half of those injuries could be prevented with proper safety gear, safer playing environments, and established safety rules.

Sports Safety for Teens

Detailed information on sports safety

Sports Safety--Identifying High-Risk Situations

High-risk situations include faulty or ill-fitting safety gear and equipment, lack of adult supervision, and an unsafe playing environment.

Sports Safety--Prevention

Safety gear should be sport-specific and may include such items as goggles, mouthguards, shin-elbow-knee pads, and helmets. The safety gear worn by a child should fit properly.

Sprains and Strains in Children

Strains, sprains, and bruises make up the majority of sports injuries. Treatment for a strain or sprain depends on the child's age and the extent of the injury.

Stages of Play

Children go through distinct stages of play as they grow. Each stage is critically important to the development of the next.

Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome

Detailed information on staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Stillbirth

Stillbirth is a common term for death of a baby while still in the uterus. Common causes are high blood pressure or infection in the mother, or placental or cord problems.

Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers (Peptic Ulcers) in Children

Detailed information on ulcers, including causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Storing Your Breast Milk

Glass or hard plastic containers are the best storage containers for human milk, especially if it is to be frozen and stored for weeks or months.

Stridor

Detailed information on stridor, including causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Stroke in Children

Stroke is much more common in adults than children, but children get strokes, too. The good news is that a child has a better ability to recover from stoke than an adult because a child's brain is still developing.

Structural Abnormalities: Deletions (Cri du Chat) and Duplications (Pallister Killian)

Detailed information on structural abnormalities, including chromosome deletions and duplications

Studies for Single Gene Defects: DNA (Direct and Indirect)

Detailed information on studies for single gene defects, including DNA direct and indirect studies

Stuttering

Stuttering may occur in a child with normal developmental speech problems who is pressured to speak better. The child's struggle to improve speech actually makes the problem worse.

Stye (Hordeolum)

A stye is caused by an infection in the oil-producing or sweat glands in the eyelid. The infection is usually caused by bacteria called Staphylococcus aureus.

Substance Abuse/Chemical Dependence in Adolescents

Substances frequently abused by adolescents include alcohol, marijuana, and amphetamines. Some teens are at higher risk of developing substance-related disorders.

Substance Exposure

Detailed information on substance exposure of newborns

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

SIDS stands for sudden infant death syndrome. It is a leading cause of infant death in the U.S. The causes of SIDS are unknown, but researchers have learned more about factors that can put your baby at risk. Learn which ones parents can prevent.

Sunburn and Children

Protect your child from the sun. Up to 80 percent of total lifetime sun exposure occurs in the first 18 years of life.

Superficial Injuries Overview

Superficial Injuries to the Face and Head

Children are more likely to end up with a cut or scrape on the head or face. One reason is that children's sense of balance isn't completely adjusted.

Support Groups

Detailed information on finding a support group for parents affected by a birth defect

Supportive/Palliative Care

Supportive, or palliative, care is care aimed at comfort of the child versus cure and treatment.

Surgery and the Breastfeeding Infant

If your baby requires surgery, you may feel helpless. But there’s something you can do to make the experience a little less traumatic: breastfeed. Not only is it comforting for your baby, but nursing will provide the most nutritious and easily digestible food for a healing body.

Surgical Overview

Detailed information on surgery in children

Symptomatic Conditions of Allergy in Children

Detailed information on symptomatic conditions of allergy, including asthma, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, rhinitis, and urticaria

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Multiple Pregnancy

Every pregnant woman feels like she’s getting big, but if you’re pregnant with two or more babies, you’ll really be growing fast. Be prepared by learning the signs of a multiple birth.

Symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis

Detailed information on cystic fibrosis, including symptom

Syncope

Detailed information on syncope, also called fainting, including causes, symptoms, diagnostic, and treatment information

Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion (SIADH)

Detailed information on syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Syrup of Ipecac

Syrup of ipecac is a substance that causes vomiting. It is no longer recommended as a first aid for poisoning because it may not be effective and can even interfere with other remedies.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE or Lupus) in Children

Lupus is a disease characterized by periodic episodes of inflammation of and damage to the joints, tendons, other connective tissues, and organs.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE, or Lupus) and Pregnancy

Lupus can affect pregnancy at any stage. It is not clear whether the severity of the disease or the type of medication causes problems.

Taking Care of Your Breast Pump and Collection Kit

Moms who bottle feed their babies are always worried about keeping the bottles and nipples clean and sterilized at all times. Likewise, if you’re a breastfeeding mom you have to be concerned with keeping your breast pump and all its parts clean to keep your baby safe from breast milk contamination.

Taking Your Baby Home

Your baby is finally ready to come home. Turn your nervous energy into positive action. Make a checklist for what you and she needs before leaving the hospital so that you can create a safe home environment. Here’s a list of items to get you started.

Teen Suicide

Suicide is the third leading cause of death in 15- to 24-year-olds. The strongest risk factors for attempted suicide in youth are depression, substance abuse, and aggressive or disruptive behaviors.

Teenage Drivers

Detailed information on teen driving, including safety tips

Teens and Diabetes

During adolescence, blood sugar levels become harder to control, resulting in levels that swing from too low to too high.

Teething

A baby's first tooth usually appears between 5 and 7 months of age. Often, the two middle bottom teeth come through the gums first, followed by the middle four upper teeth.

Television and Children

Detailed information on television and children, including suggestions for helping set good television viewing habits

Temper Tantrums

These fits of rage—the stomping, screaming, and falling on the floor—are a normal part of childhood development. Temper tantrums often occur only with a parent. They are a way for the child to communicate his or her feelings.

Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is a repetitive stress injury of the elbow that occurs when the muscles and tendons in the elbow area are torn or damaged.

Teratogens

Detailed information on teratogens and non-teratogenic agents

Teratogens Overview

Testicular Torsion

Detailed information on testicular torsion, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Testing and Lab Procedures for the Newborn in Intensive Care

It’s important that babies in intensive care undergo regular testing so they get the important care they need. Here are common seven lab tests used in the newborn intensive care unit. Make sure to ask your baby’s doctor about them.

Testing for Birth Defects

Detailed information on testing for birth defects

Tetanus in Children

Tetanus is an acute, sometimes fatal, disease of the central nervous system, caused by the toxin of the tetanus bacterium, which usually enters the body through an open wound.

Tetralogy of Fallot

Tetralogy of Fallot is a complex condition of several congenital heart defects.

Thalassemia

Detailed information on thalassemias, including alpha thalassemia, beta thalassemia (Cooley's anemia)

Thawing Breast Milk

Use the oldest milk first, and thaw it by placing the collection container in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.

The Benefits of Mother's Own Milk

Premature babies who receive their own mothers' milk develop better eye function. They, and other high-risk babies fed mothers' milk, usually perform better on different kinds of intelligence tests as they grow older.

The Craniofacial Team

Detailed information on craniofacial anomalies and the craniofacial anomaly treatment team

The Day of Surgery

Before coming to the hospital, remove any watches, necklaces, or earrings that your child wears and leave them at home so they are not misplaced.

The Difference Between a Chromosome Abnormality and a Single Gene Defect

A person can have normal chromosomes in number and structure, but still have a disease or condition caused by a mutation in one or more of the genes on the chromosomes.

The Digestive System: An Overview

Detailed information on how the digestive system works, including a full-color, labeled illustration of the digestive system

The Dying Process

Understanding the physical and mental changes the body goes through as death occurs, may help alleviate some fears and misconceptions about death.

The First Trimester

A healthy first trimester is crucial to the normal development of your baby. You may not be showing much on the outside, but inside, all the major body organs and systems of the fetus are forming.

The Genetics of Cystic Fibrosis

Detailed information on cystic fibrosis, including genetics

The Growing Child

Detailed information on the growth and development of a child

The Growing Child: 1 to 3 Months

At this stage of growth, your baby will gain 1-1/2 to 2 pounds in weight and more than an inch in height each month.

The Growing Child: 10 to 12 Months

Your child can now says da-da and ma-ma, and possibly two other words, as well. He or she can also make a simple gesture such as shaking the head.

The Growing Child: 1-Year-Olds

Your child is a toddler now and very active! He or she can climb stairs while holding on and play with push and pull toys.

The Growing Child: 2-Year-Olds

Speech at this age is becoming clearer. Your child has a vocabulary of 200 to 300 words and can tell his or her age and name.

The Growing Child: 3-Year-Olds

Most 3-year-olds have lost the rounded tummy of a toddler. Your child can use a spoon well and can wash and dry his or her hands.

The Growing Child: 4 to 6 Months

This age is very social, and babies begin moving in much more purposeful ways.

The Growing Child: 7 to 9 Months

A baby of this age rolls over easily from front to back and back to front, and bounces when supported to stand.

The Growing Child: Adolescent (13 to 18 Years)

Adolescence is a time for growth spurts and puberty changes. Sexual maturation may occur gradually or several signs may become visible at the same time.

The Growing Child: Newborn

In the first month of life, babies usually catch up and surpass their birthweight, then steadily continue to gain weight.

The Growing Child: Preschool (4 to 5 Years)

Children at this age begin to understand concepts and can compare abstract ideas.

The Growing Child: School-Age (6 to 12 Years)

Although friendships become more important at this age, children are still fond of their parents and like being part of a family.

The Heart

Detailed information on the anatomy of the heart and heart transplantation in children

The Hospital Setting

Many surgeries performed on children are done as an outpatient. With minor surgeries, your child will return to the outpatient surgery center after spending the required time in the recovery room.

The Human Genome Project

Detailed information on the Human Genome Project how it relates to the identification and treatment of cancer

The Kidneys

Detailed anatomical description of the kidneys

The Liver

Detailed anatomical description of the liver and liver transplantation in children

The Lungs

Detailed anatomical description of the lungs and lung transplantation in children

The Lungs in Pregnancy

Detailed anatomical information on the respiratory system in pregnancy

The Lymphatic System

Detailed anatomical information on the lymphatic system

The Menstrual Cycle: An Overview

A woman is generally most fertile (able to become pregnant) a few days before, during, and after ovulation.

The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

NICUs provide specialized care for the tiniest patients. NICUs may also have intermediate or continuing care areas for babies who are not as sick but do need specialized nursing care.

The New Mother - Taking Care of Yourself After Birth

You will need plenty of rest, good nutrition, and help during the first few weeks after your baby is born.

The Operating Room

Your child will need to know that people in the operating room will be wearing surgical clothes to help prevent germs from infecting the surgical incision.

The Pediatrics Orthopedic Team

Detailed information on each member of the pediatric orthopedic treatment team

The Pregnant Mother

Detailed information for the pregnant mother, including information on hormones during pregnancy, weight gain during pregnancy, nutrition during pregnancy, exercise during pregnancy, work and pregnancy, sex during pregnancy, and sleeping positions during

The Respiratory System in Babies

By about 35 weeks gestation, most babies have developed adequate amounts of surfactant, a substance normally released into the lung tissues to lower surface tension in the airways. This helps keep the air sacs in the lung open.

The Second Trimester

During this trimester, the weight of your growing baby will multiply more than seven times—and you will start showing more.

The Surgical Team for Children

Most surgical teams include a surgeon, an anesthesiologist, a nurse anesthetist, and an operating room nurse. The number of team members differs depending on the type of surgery performed.

The Third Trimester

The third trimester marks the home stretch for your pregnancy. You may feel more uncomfortable now as you continue to gain weight. You also may have false labor contractions (called Braxton-Hicks contractions).

Thermal Injuries

Detailed information on thermal injuries in children

Third-Degree Burns

This type of burn destroys the top two layers of skin. Treatment for third-degree burns depends on the amount of body surface area affected.

Thrombocytopenia

Thrombocytopenia is a condition in which a baby has too few platelets—the blood cells needed for clotting.

Thrush

Thrush is a yeast infection in the mouth and throat of babies. Babies usually contract the organism from the mother's body during delivery and may develop thrush as early as 2 weeks old.

Thrush or Candidiasis

Candidiasis is an infection caused by yeast on the skin and mucous membranes. When the infection occurs in the mouth, it is called thrush.

Thumb Sucking

Thumb sucking is normal in infants and young children. It shouldn't cause any permanent problems if your child stops by age 5.

Thyroglossal Duct Cyst

Detailed information on thyroglossal duct cyst, including cause, symptom, diagnosis, and treatment

Thyroid Conditions

Detailed information on thyroid conditions and pregnancy

Tibial Torsion

Tibial torsion causes a child's feet to turn inward, or to have what is also known as a "pigeon-toed" appearance.

Tick Bite Diseases

Ticks feed on human blood. Most tick bites are harmless, but some species can cause serious diseases.

Tick Bites

Ticks attach themselves to the scalp, behind the ear, in the armpit and groin, and also between fingers and toes. Tick bites often occur at night and are more common in the spring and summer months.

Tilt Table Evaluation

Detailed information on tilt table testing, also called upright tilt testing, including reasons for the procedure, risks of the procedure, what to expect, and discharge instructions

Time-Out

Detailed information on child discipline and time-out

Tinea Infections (Ringworm) in Children

Detailed information on the most common types of ringworm, including diagnosis and treatment

Tinea Versicolor in Children

Detailed information on tinea versicolor, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Toddler

Detailed information on toddler health

Toddler Nutrition

Mealtime with a toddler can be challenging, because children at this age are striving for independence and control. It's best to provide structure and set limits.

Toddler Play

Ideas for toddler toys: a rocking horse, a shovel and a bucket, and toys that can be pushed or pulled.

Toddler Problems of the Teeth and Mouth

Detailed information on toddler problems of the teeth and mouth

Toilet-Training

Detailed information on toilet-training your child

Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy

Symptoms of tonsillitis vary greatly depending on the cause of the infection, and can occur either suddenly or gradually.

Tooth Decay (Caries or Cavities) in Children

Tooth decay first appears as white spots on the teeth. The cavity then turns a light brown color and progressively becomes darker.

Toothache (Pulpitis)

Detailed information on toothache, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Topic Index - Adolescent Medicine

Detailed information on adolescent medicine, including growth and development, cognitive development, relationship development, health and injury problems, and safety

Topic Index - Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology

Detailed information on allergy, asthma, and immunology

Topic Index - Burns

Detailed information on burns, including anatomy, classification, treatment, and prevention

Topic Index - Cardiovascular Disorders

Detailed information on cardiovascular diseases in children

Topic Index - Care of the Terminally Ill Child

Detailed information on care of the terminally ill child

Topic Index - Child and Adolescent Mental Health

Detailed information on child and adolescent mental health disorders

Topic Index - Common Childhood Injuries and Poisonings

Detailed information on the common poisonings and injuries of children

Topic Index - Craniofacial Anomalies

Detailed information on craniofacial anomalies, including Cleft Lip, Cleft Palate, Craniosynostosis, Deformational Plagiocephaly, Hemifacial Microsomia, Vascular Malformations, and Hemangiomas

Topic Index - Dental and Oral Health

Detailed information on dental and oral health in children

Topic Index - Dermatology for Children

Detailed information on dermatology and children

Topic Index - Diabetes and Other Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders

Detailed information on diabetes and other endocrine and metabolic disorders that affect children

Topic Index - Digestive and Liver Disorders

Detailed information on digestive disorders in children

Topic Index - Ear, Nose, and Throat

Detailed information on ear, nose, and throat disorders in children

Topic Index - Eye Care for Children

Detailed information on eye disorders in children

Topic Index - Genitourinary and Kidney Disorders

Detailed information on genitourinary and kidney disorders in children

Topic Index - Growth and Development

Detailed information on proper health maintenance for a child

Topic Index - Hematology and Blood Disorders in Children

Detailed information on blood disorders, including Anemia, Aplastic Anemia, Hemolytic Anemia, Iron Deficiency Anemia, Megaloblastic Anemia, Sickle Cell Anemia, Thalassemia, Alpha Thalassemia, Beta Thalassemia (Cooley's Anemia)

Topic Index - High-Risk Newborn

Detailed information on high-risk newborns

Topic Index - High-Risk Pregnancy

Detailed information on high-risk pregnancy

Topic Index - Infectious Diseases in Children

Detailed information on infectious diseases in children

Topic Index - Medical Genetics

Detailed information on medical genetics, including chromosome abnormalities, single gene defects, multifactorial inheritance, teratogens, and non-traditional inheritance

Topic Index - Neurological Disorders

Detailed information on neurological disorders in children

Topic Index - Normal Newborn

Detailed information on newborn care

Topic Index - Oncology

Detailed information on cancer in children

Topic Index - Orthopedics

Detailed information on orthopaedic disorders in children

Topic Index - Pediatric Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases

Detailed information on pediatric arthritis and other rheumatic diseases

Topic Index - Pregnancy and Childbirth

Detailed information on pregnancy and childbirth, including information on birth statistics, pregnancy planning, preconception care, prenatal care, pregnancy discomforts, pregnancy tests, pregnancy risks, pregnancy warning signs, labor and delivery, breas

Topic Index - Respiratory Disorders in Children

Detailed information on the most common types of respiratory disorders, including symptoms, prevention, diagnostic, and treatment information

Topic Index - Safety and Injury Prevention

Detailed information on safety and injury prevention of children

Topic Index - The Child Having Surgery

Detailed information on surgery in children

Topic Index - Transplantation

Detailed information on transplantation in children

Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return

In this condition, the four pulmonary veins are connected somewhere besides the left atrium.

Tourette's Disorder

A person with Tourette's disorder develops multiple repeated tics. The tics are abrupt, purposeless, and involuntary vocal sounds or muscular jerks.

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis in Children

Detailed information on toxic epidermal necrolysis, including symptoms and treatment

Toxic Shock Syndrome

Detailed information on toxic shock syndrome, including symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Toxoplasmosis

Toxoplasmosis is not only harmful to moms-to-be, but also to their unborn babies. If you haven’t heard of toxoplasmosis, you’ll definitely want to brush up on this new word.

Toy Safety

Detailed information on toy safety and injury prevention in children

Toy Safety--Identifying High-Risk Situations

Small toys or toys with small removal parts are not appropriate for children ages 3 and younger.

Toy Safety--Injury Statistics and Incidence Rates

Almost half of all toy-related injuries occur to the head and face area. Most riding toy-related injuries occur when a child falls from a toy.

Toy Safety--Prevention

To make sure a toy is appropriate for your young child, check the label. In general, most toys on the market today are safe.

Tracheoesophageal Fistula and Esophageal Atresia

Detailed information on tracheoesophageal fistula and esophageal atresia, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Transesophageal Echocardiography

Detailed information on transesophageal echocardiography, also called TEE or heart scan with endoscopy, including reasons for the procedure, risks of the procedure, what to expect, and discharge instructions

Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn

Transient tachypnea of the newborn is a term for a mild respiratory problem of babies that begins after birth and lasts about three days.

Translocation Down Syndrome

Detailed information on translocation Down syndrome

Translocations

Detailed information on chromosome translocations, including reciprocal translation and Robertsonian translocation

Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA)

Because of abnormal development of the fetal heart, the large vessels that take blood away from the heart to the lungs, or to the body, are improperly connected.

Trauma

Detailed information on neurological trauma in children

Treatment for a Child's Allergy

Detailed information on avoidance of allergens and treatment for allergy, including immunotherapy (allergy shots) and medication

Treatment for Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Diseases in Children

Detailed information on treatment for arthritis and other rheumatic diseases

Treatment for Cancer

The specific treatment for your child's cancer will be determined by your child's doctor, based on a variety of factors, including the type of cancer and the extent of the disease.

Treatment for Cystic Fibrosis

Detailed information on cystic fibrosis, including treatment

Treatment for Dog and Cat Bites and Scratches

For a superficial bite from a healthy household pet, wash the wound with soap and water under pressure from a faucet for at least five minutes.

Treatment for Skin Cancer in Children

Detailed information on treatment for skin cancer

Tree Nut Allergy Diet for Children

Detailed information on tree nut allergy, a type of food allergy, including how to read a label for a tree nut-free diet

Trichomoniasis in Teens

Most people who have a trichomoniasis infection don’t have symptoms. If symptoms occur, they may begin anywhere from a few days to months after infection.

Tricuspid Atresia (TA)

In tricuspid atresia, the tricuspid valve, normally located between the right atrium and the right ventricle, does not develop properly.

Trinucleotide Repeats: Fragile X Syndrome

Detailed information on trinucleotide repeats, including fragile X syndrome

Trisomy 18 and 13

Trisomy 18 and trisomy 13 are genetic disorders that present a combination of birth defects including severe mental retardation, as well as health problems involving nearly every organ system in the body.

Truncus Arteriosus

Truncus arteriosus occurs when the aorta and the pulmonary artery fail to separate completely during fetal development.

Tuberculosis (TB) in Children

Detailed information on tuberculosis, including risks, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Turner Syndrome

Turner syndrome is a genetic disorder seen in girls that causes them to be shorter than others and to not mature sexually as they grow into adulthood.

Type 1 Diabetes in Children

Type 1 diabetes usually develops in children or young adults, but can start at any age.

Type 2 Diabetes in Children

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder resulting from the body's inability to produce enough, or to properly use, insulin.

Types of Allergens

Detailed information on allergy triggers and symptom control

Types of Anesthesia

During surgery, your child will be given some form of anesthesia—medication given to relieve pain and sensation.

Types of Chromosome Abnormalities

Detailed information on the different types of chromosome abnormality

Types of Genetic Diseases

Genetic diseases are classified by type: chromosomal abnormalities, single gene defects, problems caused by exposure to certain substances, or a combination of these.

Types of Hearing Tests for Infants and Children

One type of hearing screening test for newborns uses a tiny, flexible plug that is inserted into the baby's ear. The other type of test uses electrodes attached with adhesive to the baby's scalp.

Types of Surgery for Children

Surgery can be classified as major or minor, depending on the seriousness of the illness, the parts of the body affected, the complexity of the operation, and the expected recovery time.

Types of Visual Screening Tests for Infants and Children

Many types of vision tests can be used to check your child's ability to see. Some of them can be used at any age, and some are used based on your child's age and understanding.

Ulcerative Colitis in Children

Detailed information on ulcerative colitis, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Ultrafast/Electron Beam CT Scan

Detailed information on ultrafast computed tomography (CT) scan, including reasons for the procedure, risks of the procedure, what to expect, and discharge instructions

Ultrasound in Pregnancy

Detailed information on ultrasound and the potential risks and benefits

Umbilical Cord Care

In a few weeks, your baby will have the cutest little belly button. But right now the healing remains of his umbilical cord need special care. Here’s how to make sure it stays infection-free.

Underactive Adrenal Glands/Addison's Disease in Children

Detailed information on Addison's disease, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Undescended Testes (Cryptorchidism)

Detailed information on undescended testes, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Uniparental Disomy: Prader-Willi Syndrome, Angelman Syndrome

Detailed information on uniparental disomy

Upper Respiratory Disorders

Detailed information on the most common types of upper respiratory infections, including common cold, influenza, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and sinusitis

Upper Respiratory Infection (URI or Common Cold)

The common cold is one of the most common illnesses, leading to more doctor visits and absences from school each year than any other illness.

Ureterocele and Ureteral Duplication

Detailed information on ureterocele and ureteral duplication, including causes, diagnosis, and treatment

Urinary Incontinence

Enuresis is the medical term for bedwetting, or accidental urination in children who should be able to control their bladder. Girls usually have bladder control before boys do. The diagnosis of enuresis is for girls older than 5 and for boys older than 6.

Urinary Tract and Kidney Infections

During pregnancy, the kidney enlarges and the bladder is compressed by the growing uterus. These and other factors make it more likely for a woman to develop a urinary tract infection.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

Detailed information on urinary tract infections, including causes, symptom, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Urticaria/Hives in Children

Detailed information on urticaria, also called hives, including what food and medicines commonly cause hives

Uses of Genetic Testing

Detailed information on the uses of genetic testing

Using a Breast Pump

A breast pump is an important piece of equipment for the breastfeeding mom who wants to increase her supply or store pumped breast milk. While it seems like a simple thing to sit down and pump out milk, there are things you can do to make pumping more effective.

Vaginitis

Vaginitis is a common problem for women of all ages. Bacteria, yeast, viruses, and chemicals in creams or sprays can cause it.

Varicella (Chickenpox)

Chickenpox is a very common childhood disease. It is usually mild, but can be serious, especially in young infants and adults.

Varicella and Pregnancy

Did you have chickenpox as a child? Then you’ve got nothing to worry about from varicella. But if you didn’t, you may not be immune to this infectious disease that can cause complications for a pregnant woman and her baby. Read more to find out why and how to protect yourself.

Vasculitis

Detailed information on the most common types of vasculitis, including Kawasaki Disease and Henoch-Schönlein Purpura

Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

A ventricular septal defect is an opening in the dividing wall between the two lower chambers of the heart known as the right and left ventricles.

Very Low Birthweight

Very low birthweight is a term used to describe babies who are born weighing less than 3 pounds, 4 ounces. Only a few babies are born this tiny.

Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR)

Detailed information on vesicoureteral reflux, including cause, symptom, diagnosis, and treatment

Viral Exanthems (Rashes)

Detailed information on viral exanthems (rashes)

Viral Skin Infections

Detailed information on viral skin infections, including Herpes Zoster (Shingles), Pityriasis Rosea, Warts, and Molluscum Contagiosum

Viruses, Bacteria, and Parasites in the Digestive Tract

Detailed information on viruses, bacteria, and parasites in the digestive tract

Vision

Detailed information on children with vision problems

Vision and Hearing

Detailed information on vision and hearing in newborns

Vision Overview

Visual Screening and Eye Examinations

Detailed information on visual screening tests in children

Visual Screening Overview

Vitamin K Deficiency Bleeding (Hemorrhagic Disease of the Newborn)

Hemorrhagic disease of the newborn is a bleeding problem that occurs during the first few days of life.

Vitamin, Gene, and Enzyme Replacement Therapy

Detailed information on vitamin, gene, and enzyme replacement therapy

Von Willebrand Disease

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is an inherited disorder that affects the blood’s ability to clot. People with VWD may experience heavy bleeding after an injury, leading to physical damage or even death.

Vulvitis

Vulvitis is an inflammation of the vulva, the soft folds of skin outside the vagina. It is a symptom of a host of diseases, infections, injuries, and allergies.

Walking Pneumonia in Children

is extremely common in school-aged children. It's the most common cause of pneumonia in this age group.

Warmth and Temperature Regulation

Premature and low birthweight babies may be too immature to regulate their own temperature, even in a warm environment. Even full-term and healthy newborns may not be able to maintain their body temperature if the environment is too cold.

Warning Signs During Pregnancy

Call your health care provider immediately if you have bleeding from the vagina, blurry vision, severe headaches, or other specific symptoms.

Warts in Children

Detailed information on the most common types of warts, including foot warts, flat warts, genital warts, and filiform warts

Water Safety - Prevention

If your children are around bodies of water on a regular basis, learn CPR. CPR can save lives, reduce the severity of injury, and improve the chance of survival.

Water Safety and Teens

Encourage your adolescent to take swimming, diving, and water safety or rescue classes to give him/her the skills needed to swim and dive safely.

Water Safety for Children

Preventive steps parents can take to protect their children from drowning.

Water Safety--Identifying High-Risk Situations

Water hazards in and around the home include buckets, diaper pails, toilets, ponds, and fountains.

Water Safety--Injury Statistics and Incidence Rates

More than half of childhood drownings in pools occur in the child's home pool. Most of the victims are between ages 1 and 4.

Weight Gain During Pregnancy

Average weight gain for women is between 25 and 35 pounds, although slight deviations from this may also be considered normal.

Weight Management and Adolescents

For overweight children 7 and older, the initial goal is to keep them from gaining more weight. Changes in eating habits and exercise are gradually introduced to trim pounds.

West Nile Virus in Children

Detailed information on West Nile virus, including symptoms, prevention, and treatment

What Are Platelets?

If one of your blood vessels gets damaged, it sends out signals that are picked up by platelets. The platelets then rush to the site of damage and form a plug, or clot, to repair the damage.

What Are Red Blood Cells?

Red blood cells play an important role in your health by carrying fresh oxygen throughout the body. The oxygen gives your blood its bright red color.

What Are Stem Cells?

Stem cells are special human cells that have the ability to develop into many different cell types, from muscle cells to brain cells. In some cases, they also have the ability to repair damaged tissues.

What Are White Blood Cells?

Think of white blood cells as your immunity cells. In a sense, they are continually at war. They flow through your bloodstream to battle viruses, bacteria, and other foreign invaders that threaten your health.

What Is Plasma?

White blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets are essential to body function, but plasma also plays a crucial, and mostly unrecognized, job, carrying these blood components throughout the body as the fluid in which they travel.

Wheat Allergy Diet for Children

Detailed information on wheat allergy, a type of food allergy, including how to read a label for a wheat-free diet

When a Baby Has Difficulty After Birth

Babies who may have difficulty at birth are those born prematurely, those who experienced a difficult delivery, maternal illness, or those with birth defects.

When to Call Your Child's Physician

These are reasons to call your child's doctor: signs of infection, uncontrollable itching, a scar that cracks open or splits.

When to Call Your Physician

Detailed information on when to call your baby's physician

When to Seek Genetic Counseling

A family history of certain diseases or disorders or certain factors affecting the pregnancy itself may be reasons to visit a genetic counselor.

Whooping Cough (Pertussis)

Whooping cough, or pertussis, mainly affects infants and young children. It is characterized by intense coughing spells that end with a characteristic whoop as air is inhaled.

Why Children Bite

A young child may bite out of frustration or when under stress. Biting may also be an attempt to gain power—or just a way of exploring the world.

Wilms Tumor

Detailed information on Wilms tumor, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Children

Detailed information on a wisdom teeth extraction procedure

Work and Pregnancy

Most women are able to work safely, in some cases, until the day of delivery, depending on the type of work performed and their condition.

X-linked Agammaglobulinemia

Detailed information on X-linked agammaglobulinemia, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

X-linked Dominant: Incontinentia Pigmenti

Detailed information on x-linked dominant inheritance

X-linked Recessive: Red-Green Color Blindness, Hemophilia A

Detailed information on x-linked recessive inheritance

Your Workplace

Discuss your plan to continue to breastfeed, and your need to pump/express breast milk during the workday, with your employer when you are pregnant or before you return to work.