MBChB, MMed, Paeds
Dr. Elna Gibson is a general pediatrician. She did her MBChB and specialization as a pediatrician in South Africa at the University of Pretoria. She obtained MMed Pediatrics (masters) with distinction in 1993.As a young specialist, Dr. Gibson spent some time in the Netherlands, and then settled in the Vaal Triangle where she has practiced for 25 years. She is currently working in Hermanus in the Western Cape.Dr. Gibson has a keen interest in respiratory disorders and allergy and she is also experienced in treating children with developmental problems, learning difficulties and ADHD. She has done a lot of neonatal intensive care work.
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Exercise with a baby is a fun way to bond with your little one. It also gets you on the fitness track after a long pregnancy gap. Being healthy and fit is essential at every stage of life. Working out helps you lose the weight you gained during pregnancy and improves your cardiovascular fitness. In addition, strength training exercise helps revive your muscle strength and promotes overall well-being. We bring you a list of activities you can try with your baby in this post. [mj-toc] Exercises You Can Do With Your Baby Postnatal exercises increase stamina, induce good sleep, and promote weight loss. They also tone your body and strengthen your abdominal muscles. From simple tummy time workouts to outdoor activities, there are many ways to exercise with a baby. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/exercises-to-reduce-tummy-fat-post-pregnancy_003020/" title="Top 12 Exercises To Reduce Belly Fat Post Pregnancy"] 1. Straight curl-up (A): [caption id="attachment_443462" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] Lie on your back with legs and feet flat on...
When your baby crosses months of age, all they try is exploration of the world. This is the time to introduce them to games and activities for 6-month-old babies. These activities can boost their cognitive skills and physical skills. Around this age, your little one begins to eat pureed food for the first time, learns to respond to names, and recognizes their reflection during the mirror play. You can further help them develop these skills by sitting with them and engaging them in the various activities. To help you tackle this development pursuit, here are some of the best ways you can try. Read on to know more. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/babys-6th-month-a-development-guide_00103340/" title="6-Month-Old’s Milestone Chart & Tips To Improve Development"] [mj-toc] 15 Games And Activities For 6-month-old Babies These activities will help in the baby’s physical, mental, and social development. Each activity nurtures a set of specific developmental skills, which we mention at the end. 1. Peek-a-boo with a blanket: [caption id="attachment_449845"...
Activities for a 16-month-old baby can also involve learning how to hold a crayon, scribble, and throw tantrums, apart from giving a warm cuddle. Introducing them to activities is guaranteed to fascinate them and capture their attention. Around this age, toddlers become more active to crawl and rage to discover new things. We list some entertaining learning activities for 16-month-old to strengthen the bond with learning and keep their minds occupied. Sit with them and help them do the activities so your children are encouraged towards learning. 15 Games And Activities For 16-Month-Old Baby The following games and activities stimulate the baby’s physical and mental skills, and they will be able to socialize – all while having fun. 1. Pass the ball [caption id="attachment_430082" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You will need: You, your partner, and the baby How to: Sit equidistant from one another and roll a small ball towards the baby. Once he catches it, ask him to roll...
If your child is 19 months old, you can expect more running around, exploration, destroying things, and curiosity. Since your child is now walking more than crawling, you’ll need to incorporate specific activities and learning games for 19-month-old babies to redirect their energy into learning and educational activities while having fun. Appropriate activities for this age group help to enhance your child’s [simple_tooltip text="cognitive function" tooltip="The ability of the brain that helps one obtain, process, store, and use information." ] and physical development. We have compiled a list of interesting games and activities for your 19-month-old to keep them engaged and entertained. [mj-toc] 13 Learning Activities And Games For19-Month-Old Baby Each activity here nurtures a particular developmental milestone or a set of skills in your baby. 1. Making Wheat Dough Balls [caption id="attachment_430064" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You will need: Kneaded wheat flour dough How to: Place a large bowl of kneaded dough in front of the baby. Take some...
Abdominal pain in teens may occur at some point and is often not a serious problem. The abdominal cavity contains many organs such as the kidney, pancreas, spleen, liver, gallbladder, intestines, appendix, and stomach. Problems with any of these organs can cause abdominal pain leading to gastrointestinal distress. Severe or recurrent pain with other symptoms may require medical care. Some cases of abdominal pain can be a medical emergency, so you may consult the doctor before giving pain medications. Keep reading to know the causes, accompanying symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of abdominal pain in teenagers. [mj-toc] Types Of Abdominal Pain In Teenagers (Boys And Girls) The intensity and location of the abdominal pain indicates the types of abdominal pain (1). Generalized pain: The pain is in more than half of the abdominal area. This type of pain may be associated with indigestion, gas, or a viral infection. Sometimes, generalized pain could become severe, thus indicating blockage or other severe problem...
A baby's skin is different and way more delicate than that of an adult. This makes it more prone to getting affected by external agents that cause rashes, irritation, or dryness. Dry skin in babies usually does not require medications for treatment, as simple home remedies may be sufficient. Read on as we tell you details about dry skin conditions in babies, preventive measures, and ways to treat them. [mj-toc] Newborn Skin Peeling [caption id="attachment_881520" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] Peeling of the skin is completely normal in newborns and requires no treatment (1). At birth, a newborn’s skin is thinner, less hairy, and has fewer sweat glands (2), as it is covered with various fluids such as amniotic fluid and vernix (a cream-cheese-like substance that covers and protects newborn’s skin from right inside the womb) (3). These fluids are wiped off after birth, exposing the baby’s skin to natural elements outside the uterus for the first time. This renders the...
Your little one has just turned 13 months and is entering into the phase of toddlerhood. However, they may begin to display fussiness while eating, leaving you to think about various food ideas for a 13-month-baby that may help introduce them to a variety of nutritious foods. There may be a change in feeding habits in most babies at this age, which could be due to their altered growth patterns. They may refuse to eat the foods they used to love earlier, which could make you feel jittery, thinking they may miss out on the essential vitamins and nutrients required for their optimum growth. Altogether, a 13-month-old toddler requires appropriate nourishment to meet the needs of their constantly developing body and mind. Also, this is the time most babies make a shift to weaning foods from exclusive breast or formula feeding. Therefore, it is extremely important to ensure they have a well-planned, nutritious meal at all times of the day....
You may notice a baby shaking their head while interacting with others or playing. Shaking their head from side to side is a common way older infants react to questions or communicate. Though head shaking is common in little ones, it could also indicate neurological or developmental problems. Read this post to learn more about the typical and uncommon reasons babies shake their heads, how to deal with it, and when to consult a doctor. [mj-toc] Normal Causes Of Baby Head-Shaking If you notice your baby is happy and healthy, then head-shaking is nothing to worry about. Here are a few usual reasons why your baby may shake their head. 1. Developing motor skills Once your baby’s neck muscles are developed, they test their ability to hold up and move the head. It is a part of normal development. Usually, by the end of the first month, a baby starts moving their head from side to side. The Centers for...
How tall will my child be? Many parents have questions and concerns about their child’s height as they grow into adults. But, children\'s growth is determined by several factors that may vary from child to child. Although predicting your child’s exact height may not be possible, certain techniques can help you get a rough estimate of their height as an adult. This post will help you know about a child’s growth and the factors affecting their height. [mj-toc] How Tall Could A Child Be? Based on estimates, a child’s height is 80% influenced by genetic factors and the rest by environmental factors (such as nutrition). However, the effect of the genes on height is not completely understood. Children of tall parents are expected to be tall, which applies to short parents too (1). A child’s typical growth rate is found to be about two inches per year from the age of four until puberty for both boys and girls (2)....
Sinus infection in babies, flu, or common cold is mainly the common reason behind the stuffy nose and other similar symptoms, but they may also result from a non-allergic rhinitis (1). In these symptoms, the tissue lining of the nasal cavity and the sinus regions get swollen due to the blood vessels' inflammation that occurs after the infection (2) (3). However, both sinusitis and the common cold are different from each other, and this difference can be pointed out by looking at the symptoms and age of the baby/child. In the case of the common cold, the symptoms usually resolve themselves within seven to ten days, whereas in the case of sinusitis, they might last for about 12 days or longer (4). Read this post to know more about the causes, signs, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of sinus infection in infants. [mj-toc] What Is Sinus Infection? Sinuses are small air spaces in the bones around the nose. Four sets of...
Petechiae in babies can occur due to self-limiting conditions (such as birth trauma) and bleeding disorders that require prompt medical care. They are tiny, flat, red spots up to two millimeters in diameter. You may notice petechiae on the skin and mucous membrane of the baby (1). Petechiae is not a disease, so you may seek a doctor's consultation to find the underlying causes. Read on about the causes, associated symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment for petechiae in babies and ways to prevent them. [mj-toc] Causes Of Petechiae In Babies Newborns may have petechiae on the skin due to birth trauma caused by vaginal delivery. It may be a little bit bigger than petechiae, even a bruise. This usually disappears within a week or two without medications. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/tips-for-having-a-normal-delivery_00384250/" title="20 Tips And 4 Exercises For A Normal Delivery"] Dr. Sharon Wiener, a board-certified pediatrician from Plano, Texas, says, “Physical trauma, such as a hard bout of coughing, breath-holding, vomiting, or crying,...
Loss of appetite in teens isn’t uncommon. A teenager undergoes several physical, psychological, and social changes during adolescence that can cause a teenager to lose interest in food. Temporary loss of appetite is mostly benign and seldom a cause for concern. However, if a teen has chronic appetite problems, you can’t undermine the possibility of an underlying health condition. Improper eating patterns can lead to nutritional deficiencies, which can cause several chronic health issues to emerge over time (1). Keep reading as we tell you more about appetite loss in teenagers, its possible causes, and more. [mj-toc] When Is Loss Of Appetite A Concern In Teens? [caption id="attachment_876045" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] It is not uncommon for teens to lose interest in food momentarily. Dr. Lilian Ablan Roldan, MD, a pediatrician from Brooklyn, New York, says, “Children and teenagers occasionally change their eating habits, which can be concerning for their families. Rapid height growth, high levels of physical activity, and...
Spit-up in babies is common due to swallowing extra air during breastfeeding or formula feeding. This is also called [simple_tooltip text="regurgitation" tooltip="The act of spitting up food or liquids from the stomach" ], and nearly 67% of babies have this gastrointestinal issue once a day (1). In some babies, possetting may be more frequent compared with others. Sometimes the spit-up may come out of the nose since it is connected to the back of our throat (2). Following proper feeding techniques and changing feeding positions may help some babies. Holding in an upright position, especially after feeding, may reduce this problem in some infants. You may seek medical care if your baby has recurrent nasal regurgitation since this may interfere with normal growth and development. Keep reading this post to know the causes and ways to prevent spit-up in newborns. [mj-toc] What Is The Difference Between Spit-up and Vomiting? The American Academy of Pediatrics describes vomiting as the forceful throwing...
Baby’s skin is very delicate, so they are more likely to develop various skin problems. One such condition is skin hives in babies. It can cause rashes all over the body, leaving your baby irritable and itchy. Hives on a baby’s skin can occur due to several factors. Read on to learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatments for skin hives in newborns. [mj-toc] What Are Hives? Hives is a skin reaction characterized by tiny, red bumps localized to a body part or spread across the body. It is also called urticaria or skin hives. Hives can appear and then completely disappear in a few hours. They could also switch places by randomly disappearing on one part of the body and appearing on another (1). It can sometimes be associated with a condition called “angioedema” which is puffiness swelling of the face, eyelids, ears, mouth, hands, feet, or genitals. Several conditions and situations can trigger hives in infants. What Causes...
Celiac disease in teens can cause abdominal pain, constipation, and vomiting. In addition, delayed growth in adolescence and short stature requires diagnosis tests in teens. Celiac disease is also called celiac sprue or gluten-sensitive enteropathy. It causes an immune reaction to the gluten protein found in rye, wheat, and barley and damages the intestinal lining. It can occur at any age in people with a genetic predisposition to this disorder. If left untreated, this may result in malnutrition and anemia with poor growth in children and teens (1). Read on to learn more about signs, symptoms, causes, high-risk groups, and treatment of celiac disease in teens and gluten-free diet, including the best food choices for teens. [mj-toc] Signs And Symptoms Of Celiac Disease In Teens [caption id="attachment_887919" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Symptoms and signs of celiac disease may vary in each person. They may include both intestinal (digestive) and extraintestinal symptoms. Extraintestinal manifestations can be due to malabsorption of essential...
Babies snoring and snorting may not be common, but it is normal and can happen for various reasons. Typically, snoring is heard as a rattling sound while breathing (1). Although most people commonly experience it, hearing a baby snore may raise concerns. Scroll through to learn about snoring and snorting in babies, including its causes and coping strategies to help your little one sleep better. [mj-toc] Is Snoring And Snorting Normal In Babies? Yes, they are normal in most babies, including newborns. One in ten babies snore nearly every night (2). Snoring occurs when the airway in the throat gets obstructed or constricted, making the inhaled air make the throat tissues vibrate. The baby’s muscles, including neck muscles, relax during sleep, thus pressing against the posterior wall (back wall) of the airways causing the baby to snore. However, it may not be this simple. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents to be aware of their baby’s snoring pattern (3),...
[mj-toc] It only takes 12 months for your baby to grow from a newborn to a toddler. Baby's development month by month accelerates, and each subsequent month offers new developments. Understandably, parenting could be a challenging experience and all new parents are often curious about what to expect next from their child and how to tell if their child’s development is on track. There is a huge window for a newborn to achieve each developmental stage, regardless of how quickly they develop. Crawling, babbling, teething, and grabbing are just a few of the milestones your baby will achieve in the first 12 months. It is common for some babies to achieve a milestone sooner, taking more time to achieve another later. Read on to know what to expect each month during your baby’s first year and what developmental traits can be considered normal in babies. Growth Milestones - Baby Development Month By Month 1st Month: [caption id="attachment_379274" align="alignleft" width="350"] Image:...
Frequent sores in the mouth or complaints about difficulty in swallowing food may indicate thrush in children. Also known as oral candidiasis or oral thrush, it is one of the most common fungal infections caused by the yeast Candida Albicans that may affect children. If the child is healthy otherwise, thrush is usually not a cause of concern. Read this post as we tell you about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, complications, home remedies, treatment, and prevention of oral thrush in children. [mj-toc] What is Thrush? Thrush is a fungal infection of the mouth and is caused by the yeast Candida albicans (1). It can affect the tongue, throat, gums, or the lining of the mouth, causing irritation. Thrush is also called oral candidiasis or oral thrush. The yeast Candida is a microorganism naturally present inside the body. It grows at a normal rate in the mouth, throat, or esophagus without causing any symptoms. But if the environment inside the mouth...
Ovarian cancer in teens is rare when compared to older women. Some may develop belly pain, urinary issues, and feeling full earlier while eating. However, most teens may not develop any symptoms, and it can be an accidental diagnosis. In addition, younger women and teens tend to have certain ovarian growths, such as germ cell tumors. Ovarian cancer may evolve in the ovaries or the distal end of fallopian tubes (1). Ovaries are significant organs in the female reproductive system that produce oocytes or eggs and secrete estrogen and progesterone hormones. Cancerous growth in reproductive organs can be concerning, and one might worry about future fertility problems. Read on to know more about the causes, early symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment for ovarian cancer in teens. [mj-toc] Ovarian Cancer Symptoms And Signs In Teenager Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer may not be seen in many teens until the cancer is widespread. However, a few girls can have early cancer symptoms...
Mumps in children is a viral infection affecting the salivary glands. Though children are usually vaccinated against the infection as a part of their mandatory vaccine roster, it is important to take preventive measures against it. Children most commonly pick up the virus from schools and daycare centers. So what to do to ensure your child is protected from it? Read on to know more about the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment for mumps in kids. [mj-toc] What Is Mumps? Mumps is an infection of the salivary glands by the mumps virus. The virus usually affects the largest salivary gland called the parotid gland. There is one parotid gland in front of each ear, under the skin. Since mumps affects the parotid gland, the disease is also called infectious parotitis (1) (2). It can also affect other organs that will be discussed shortly. [caption id="attachment_468830" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] What causes Mumps in children? A child can catch the mumps...
The term umbilical hernia is used to describe a condition where a part of the intestine pushes through a weak spot in the muscles that hold it in. An umbilical hernia in babies may appear as a bulge near the naval area. Umbilical hernias may resolve without treatment. However, it is advisable to discuss with your pediatrician to be fully certain. Read this post to learn what may cause hernia in babies, its diagnosis, and treatment options. [mj-toc] What Is Hernia? When an organ breaks a delicate tissue or enters an opening in the muscles, where it does not belong, it is called a hernia. An abdominal hernia is the extrusion of the loop-like section of the small intestine from the abdominal wall. In other words, a section of the small or large intestine breaches the abdominal wall and slides out to cause a visible external bulge. When the intestine slips out around the waist area, near the navel, it...
Sunburn in babies can cause discomfort and be quite painful for them to endure. Sunburn occurs when your skin is excessively exposed to the ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun (1). Our skin produces a pigment known as melanin to protect itself from sun damage. However, if the intensity of the UV radiation exceeds the melanin’s ability to protect the skin, the person can get sunburn. Thus, the fairer a person’s skin, the more likely they are to land up with a sunburn. The more natural melanin pigment one's skin produces, the lesser the chances of getting a sunburn. And since the damage caused to the skin is just like a burn, it’s referred to as sunburn. In this post, we tell you how to protect your baby’s skin from sunburn and the dos and don’ts if your baby has sunburn. [mj-toc] How Does A Baby Get Sunburn? [caption id="attachment_893384" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] Here are the reasons why sunburns...
During their active sleep, babies make involuntary movements, such as laughing, smiling, or mumbling in their sleep. You may have also noticed your baby sigh during sleep. As there is a general perception that sighing means sadness, your baby's sleep sighs might have made you wonder if your baby is feeling distressed or uncomfortable due to pain in some part of their body. Read this post to know why your baby sighs while sleeping and some facts about your baby's natural sleeping pattern. [mj-toc] Understanding A Baby’s Sleep Sigh [caption id="attachment_891110" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Yes, babies do sigh a lot in their sleep. But a sigh during sleep is nothing to worry about as it indicates that your baby’s body is taking care of itself. In fact, it is a sign of a healthy sleep pattern (1). There has only been limited research on baby sleep sighs and the role they play in the development of babies. These studies,...
Preterm or premature birth occurs when a woman delivers her baby before the 37th week of pregnancy. Various factors can cause preterm birth, but one of the most serious concerns is the babies' low birth weight (LBW). According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), "development is not a race, and babies develop at their own pace" (1). Therefore, even premature babies will gradually reach developmental milestones, including weight gain, if proper conditions are offered. This post discusses premature babies' weight gain and growth and provides a premature baby growth chart. [mj-toc] Understanding The Weight Of Premature Babies [caption id="attachment_875020" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] The average weight of a newborn is seven pounds (3.17 kilograms). But the average weight of a preterm infant is about five pounds (2.26 kilograms) or less. The exact weight depends on how early the baby is delivered, with infants born after 28 weeks of pregnancy weighing 2.3 pounds (one kilogram) (2). There is a difference...
A conehead baby is born with a cone-shaped head after vaginal birth. During vaginal birth, babies pass through a tight birth canal, where their malleable head bones get squeezed to make their way out. During this time, their head may develop a cone-like shape. For many babies, their heads return to their normal shape within 48 hours after birth. In others, a few days or weeks may be required, but the need for medical intervention is rare. However, consult your pediatrician if your baby has head shape abnormalities that appear severe. Read this post to know more about the causes of a conehead in babies, the concerns it may raise, and when to worry about it. [mj-toc] Why Does A Baby Have A Conehead After A Vaginal Birth? [caption id="attachment_884392" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] A cone-shaped head in babies might result from squeezing through the birth canal during vaginal birth (1). A baby's head circumference is larger than the birth...
One of the body's major organ systems is the heart and circulatory system. To make make learning about it more interesting for children, you could introduce them to some interesting facts about the heart and circulatory system for kids. The circulatory system includes the heart and blood vessels. The blood vessels distribute blood, which delivers oxygen and other nutrients to the cells. It also helps eliminate wastes, such as transport hormones and carbon dioxide, and maintains the body’s fluid balance and temperature (1). Blood comprises blood cells (red and white) and [simple_tooltip text="plasma" tooltip="A yellowish liquid component of the blood that helps transport nutrients and, hormones, waste products throughout the body." ]. The red blood cells (RBCs) aid in oxygen supply, while the white blood cells (WBCs) help prevent infections. Further, the platelets prevent blood loss through blood clotting (2). Read this post to understand how to teach more about the heart and circulatory system to children, which circulatory system...
Although rare, it is possible to see dandruff in toddlers. Dandruff is flaking of the scalp that leads to a formation of yellow or white flakes that are visible on the toddler’s head, hair, and shoulders. The toddlers may also exhibit signs such as scratching their heads and may complain of an itchy scalp (1) (2). Toddler dandruff may also indicate a probability of seborrheic dermatitis. Continue reading this post as we tell you the causes, symptoms, home remedies, and dandruff treatment in toddlers. [mj-toc] Symptoms Of Dandruff In Toddlers The primary symptom is the formation of yellow or white dandruff flakes, which are often visible on the scalp and shoulders. Severe dandruff problems can be due to seborrheic dermatitis, which can display the following symptoms (3). A red rash around the ear, forehead, eyebrow, or the scalp Greasy white or yellow scales of skin that can be accompanied by red patches of skin seen along the hairline, behind the...
Family doctors and physicians frequently encounter cases of wheezing in children. The wheezing sound is mostly caused when air is trying to move through the narrow or constricted airway of the lungs (1). According to a study shared by the American Academy of Family Physicians, wheezing is as prevalent as in 40% of the pediatric population by the age of three, and nearly half of all children will have experienced at least one wheezing episode by the age of six (2) (3). Read this post to learn the types and causes of childhood wheezing and how it can be diagnosed and managed. [mj-toc] Symptoms Of Wheezing In Children Wheezing in children is characterized by (1): High-pitched breathing A purring or whistling sound The wheezing sound is most obvious while your child is exhaling or breathing out. Causes Of Wheezing In Children Several conditions and factors can lead to wheezing in children (2) (3). Children younger than five years often experience...
The clavicle or collarbone is the long S-shaped bone that unites the breastbone to the shoulder blades. There is a collarbone on either side of the shoulder. Clavicle fracture in a child is the most commonly occurring type of fracture because of the superficial location and the thin and long structure of the collarbone (1). According to a study, clavicular fractures account for 10% of all fractures. A clavicle fracture usually happens due to falling onto the shoulder. While most collarbone fractures in children are easily treatable, some severe cases may require surgical interventions (2). Read this post to learn about the common causes, symptoms, and treatment for a broken collarbone in children. [mj-toc] Causes Of A Broken Collarbone In Children Clavicle fractures mostly occur in the middle third of the collarbone (called midshaft fractures); the distal third and proximal third fractures are less common injuries in children (1). The following events may cause a fractured collarbone in children (3)...
Halitosis or bad breath in children is common. It can originate from oral and non-oral sources; 87% of cases arise from an oral source, and 13% from non-oral sources (1). Bad breath is alike in children and adults when they wake up in the morning because of increased bacterial activity in the mouth. However, morning breath is temporary and goes away after brushing the teeth and rinsing the mouth (2). If the child complains of bad odor at other times and when it is a persistent problem, you should bring it to the healthcare professional's notice. Read this post to learn about the causes, treatment, prevention, and home remedies of bad breath in children. [mj-toc] Causes Of Bad Breath In Children The following are some probable causes of bad breath in children (1) (2) (3): 1. Poor oral hygiene Certain areas in the mouth, such as pits and grooves on the surface of teeth, areas between teeth and gums, or on the pores of the tongue, get...
The fifth disease in kids is a viral infection caused by [simple_tooltip text="human parvovirus" tooltip="A type of virus that is present in nasal mucus, spit, or saliva and affects only humans." ] B19. It got its unique name from being the fifth on the list of the most common types of skin rashes in children, with the first four ones being [simple_tooltip text="measles" tooltip="An acute viral respiratory disease characterized by cough, high fever, cold, and conjunctivitis." ] , [simple_tooltip text="rubella" tooltip="An acute, contagious, viral infection that causes a spotty rash." ], [simple_tooltip text="chickenpox" tooltip="A highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever, blisters, and itchy rashes." ], and [simple_tooltip text="roseola" tooltip="A contagious disease caused by humans herpesvirus 6, characterized by cold, high fever, and rashes. " ] (1) (2). The fifth disease rash is also called the "slapped cheek rash" since its first notable manifestation is a bright red rash on the child's cheeks. The illness is most commonly seen in school-going...
Shingles in children is a painful skin rash caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is the same virus responsible for chickenpox infection (1). The rash from shingles can appear anywhere on the body and can be extremely painful (2). Herpes zoster affects more than one million people in the US each year. Around 30% or one in every three people develop shingles. Shingles are not common in children and are seen more commonly in people over 50. Read this post to learn about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of shingles in children (3). [mj-toc] Causes And Risk Factors Of Shingles In Children [caption id="attachment_889686" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Once you have recovered from chickenpox, the virus may lie dormant in the body's sensory nerves. The reactivation of the virus leads to shingles, also known as herpes zoster infection (3). [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/genital-herpes-in-children-symptoms-treatment_00692043/" title="Genital Herpes In Kids: Signs, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment"] The following factors may put a child at...
It is important to identify baby sleep cues to help them sleep better. You will find it difficult to put an overly exhausted baby to sleep, or they might wake up more often in the night. A common mistake most parents make is waiting for the baby to get tired and fussy before putting them to bed, as they think these as the signs that the baby is ready to sleep. However, before hitting crankiness and crying, the babies give subtle cues to show they are sleepy, similar to the cues they show when hungry. So identifying and designing bedtimes based on these cues can make it easy for you to put your baby to sleep. Read on to know. [mj-toc]What Are The Common Baby Sleep Cues? Here are some of the sleep cues a baby shows before they get overtired and fussy. Yawning is one of the first few signs of a sleepy baby (1). The baby rubs their...
Night sweats are defined as drenching sweats that require you to change your bedclothes (1). Excessive sweating in babies can affect their sleep. Although it might worry you to see your baby sweating in sleep, it’s not always a sign of a medical condition. Read this post to learn about the causes and treatment for babies sweating at night and know when to consult a doctor. [mj-toc] Is Night Sweat In Babies Normal? A baby sweating at night is not always a cause for concern. Various reasons cause [simple_tooltip text="nocturnal sweating" tooltip="Excessive sweating or perspiration during sleep" ], and not all of them indicate a problem. Consult a pediatrician in the case of sudden onset of heavy sweating that continues for a prolonged period and is accompanied by other symptoms of an illness. Po-Chang Hsu, MD, MS, a Greater Boston-based medical expert, explains, “Night sweats are typically divided into primary (regular sweating that happens during deep sleep or when it’s warm...
You may be curious about when to switch to a toddler bed as your child grows and can climb out without assistance. Toddler beds are safer and significantly comfortable for your child. The toddler may also sleep more soundly in the bed than they have of late in the crib. Some toddlers may remain accustomed to their crib, and the shift to a toddler bed may come across as a challenge. The key concern in parents\' minds is how to make this transition as smooth as possible. Let\'s start with a more fundamental question. [mj-toc] At What Age Can You Switch Your Baby To A Toddler Bed? Ideally, transitioning your toddler from a crib to a bed should happen between 18 months and four years of age (1). The closer they are to three years, the better. Although this is regarded as the ideal age to make the transition to a toddler bed, remember that each child is unique, and...
Urate crystals in newborn diaper may indicate reddish, orange, or pinkish residue in urine, almost similar to brick-red dust or pinkish stain in the diaper. Because of its coloration in diapers, parents often assume it to be bloody urine. Urate is a salt made up of uric acid, a weak organic acid produced in the body as a byproduct of the metabolism of some endogenous chemicals (1). While urate crystals in your baby\'s urine are common in the first few days after birth, their presence over an extended period could be a cause for concern. Read on as we discuss the different causes of urate crystals in babies and ways to prevent them. [mj-toc] What Causes Urate Crystals In An Infant's Diaper? A baby may excrete urate crystals due to the high concentration of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a waste product synthesized in the liver, intestines, and certain cells of the circulatory system when the body...
Jaundice in children causes the skin, whites of the eyes (sclerae), and mucous membranes to turn yellow. The yellowish tint usually starts on the face and moves down the body. It is an indication of a condition called [simple_tooltip text="hyperbilirubinemia" tooltip="A condition in which too much bilirubin accumulates in the blood." ], where a waste product called bilirubin (yellow-orange bile pigment) accumulates in the blood (1) (2). Jaundice may occur in adults, children, and newborn babies; however, the conditions that cause jaundice in children are different from newborns (3). For example, while jaundice in newborns generally indicates a developing liver, it may indicate a liver disease in older children (1). Read on about the types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment for jaundice in children. [mj-toc] Types Of Jaundice In Children Jaundice is categorized into three types (4) (5): Pre-hepatic jaundice, also called non-obstructive or medical jaundice, is when the bilirubin is produced in excess. It results in the inability of...
When transitioning your baby from breast milk to their first solid feeding, you must be cautious about the food you give them. If you are considering introducing them to cereals such as wheat, you should be aware of the symptoms of wheat allergy in babies to detect any reactions and stop feeding it at the earliest. Wheat is a good source of carbohydrates, and its fiber content enables healthy digestion (1 ). It also contains several minerals and is thus a healthy nutritional source for babies (2). Read this post to learn more about the causes of wheat allergy in babies, the most common symptoms, and how to manage wheat allergy in infants. [mj-toc] What Is Wheat Allergy In Babies? Wheat allergy is caused by an immune response. This happens when your baby’s immune system is exposed to any one of the four proteins present in wheat, such as [simple_tooltip text="albumin" tooltip="A protein synthesized in the liver, essential to prevent...
Babies have narrow nasal passages, which may often cause difficulty in breathing. If you are looking for ways to clean your baby's nose, reading this post might help. Initially, newborns follow obligate nasal breathing, so it would be uneasy when they have a stuffy nose. Hence, it is important to ensure you clean their nasal cavity to help them breathe properly and receive sufficient nourishment without any hassles while feeding. Moreover, frequent clearance of nasal cavities could treat infections, if any. Although it is not an easy task to clean a baby's nose, you may read this post to find effective ways to make it easier. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/baby-chest-congestion_00479249/" title="Chest Congestion In Babies: Causes, Symptoms & Home Remedies"] [mj-toc] Different Ways To Clean Your Baby Nose A natural way of cleaning the baby's nasal cavity is by making him sneeze. This expels the blockage and removes the excess mucus build-ups in the nose. If the infant is still uncomfortable by this...
If your child isn’t still losing weight despite trying everything, it is good to know some useful tips on how to help kids lose weight. Helping children lose weight is important as being overweight or obese can expose a child to several long-term health problems. Besides, it can pose a hindrance to their proper growth and development. As per the data from WHO, approximately 38.2 million children under five years were overweight or obese in 2019, and more than 340 million children and teens between 5 and 19 years were overweight or obese in 2016 (1). It reflects the need for parents to take an active role in helping their children lose weight. Read about the common weight loss mistakes and effective ways to help your child lose weight. [mj-toc] Common Weight Loss Mistakes Weight loss isn’t only about eating veggies and fruits or doing exercise. Parents need to understand that weight loss is a continuous process. Identifying your shortcomings...
Hydrocortisone is a topical corticosteroid medication available in the form of lotions, ointments, and creams (1). Hydrocortisone cream for babies is an over-the-counter drug and is usually prescribed to relieve skin-related symptoms such as redness, itchiness, and swelling. However, you should use this cream only when advised by your baby’s pediatrician, as undirected use of this medication could cause side effects in babies. Explore more about the directions of use, recommended dosage, side effects, precautions, and other concerns regarding hydrocortisone creams for babies. [mj-toc] Is Hydrocortisone Cream Safe For Babies? Mild doses of hydrocortisone creams used as per the doctor’s direction are unlikely to cause any side effects. The use of hydrocortisone without a doctor’s supervision may lead to undesired effects. Possible side effects of hydrocortisone cream due to inappropriate use may include (2): Redness of the skin Possible spread of untreated infection from the affected area of skin to unaffected areas The skin may become thin after long-term use...
Vernix caseosa, often known as vernix, is a white, waxy, creamy, or cheesy material that coats the skin of newborns. Vernix comprises the sebaceous gland and periderm cells (which cover the developing skin cells) that are shed around the 21st week of pregnancy. It protects the fetus during development as well as after birth. Vernix may not be present on the skin of extremely premature newborns or those with very low birth weight. Further, babies born between 32 and 37 weeks of pregnancy may have more vernix than full-term neonates. Read this article to learn about the benefits and risks of leaving vernix caseosa on a baby\'s skin after delivery. [mj-toc] Purpose Of The Vernix Caseosa [caption id="attachment_892337" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Babies can benefit from vernix caseosa beyond pregnancy. Even little vernix caseosa on a baby’s skin can be beneficial during and after delivery. These benefits could include the following (1). Antimicrobial properties of vernix caseosa help the baby...
A widespread abdominal pain may indicate mesenteric lymphadenitis in children. It is the inflammation of the mesenteric lymph nodes, which are clusters of three or more lymph nodes in the right lower mesentery. The peritoneum fold (abdominal cavity membrane) that connects the intestines to the back of the abdominal wall is referred to as the mesentery. While mesenteric lymphadenitis can occur at any age, it is more common in children (1). Therefore, if your child experiences significant abdominal pain, consult your child’s doctor since it could signify a problem that requires medical attention. Read on to learn the various causes, symptoms, risk factors, and complications of mesenteric lymphadenitis and how it can be diagnosed, treated, and prevented in the pediatric population. [mj-toc] Signs And Symptoms Of Mesenteric Lymphadenitis In Children Mesenteric lymphadenitis can be chronic or acute inflammation, depending on the microorganism causing it. Signs and symptoms of mesenteric lymphadenitis may include (2): Abdominal pain on lower right side Fever...
A nebulizer is a device that administers a drug as inhalable mist, letting the medicine reach the lungs better and work faster. Nebulizers for babies may be needed to treat or manage respiratory illnesses, which may not be curable through topical and oral medications. If you intend to use a nebulizer, knowing the right procedure to use the device is essential to ensure the medicine is administered effectively. Read this post to learn about the different types of nebulizers, how they work, how they are different from inhalers, and tips to use a nebulizer carefully to administer medications to babies and toddlers. [mj-toc] What Is A Nebulizer And How Does It Work? [caption id="attachment_886737" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] A nebulizer is a device that converts liquid medicine into a fine mist that is inhaled and delivered across the respiratory system, to the lungs (1). The nebulizer has three basic components: an air compressor, a medicine cup, and a mouthpiece or...
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that promote heart health and are vital for proper growth and development. You can provide enough omega-3 for kids from a well-balanced diet. Omega-3 fatty acids have three types — docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). DHA and EPA are long-chain fatty acids present in marine-based foods, such as oily fish, whereas short-chain omega-3 ALA is present in plant-origin foods, such as flax seeds and chia seeds (1) (2). Regular consumption of omega-3 can avert the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, [simple_tooltip text="arthritis" tooltip="An inflammatory condition affecting people of all ages, characterized by swelling, stiffness, and pain in the joints." ], asthma, stroke, psychological problems, and some types of cancers. Read on to know about the benefits, right dosage, and healthy food sources of omega-3 for children. [mj-toc] Can Children Take Omega-3 Fatty Acids? [caption id="attachment_893282" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Yes, children can take omega-3 fatty acids...
Oral rehydration salts (ORS) is an oral rehydration formula made of dry salts and is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). You may prepare a solution of ORS for babies at home by mixing salt and sugar in the prescribed quantity of clean drinking water. You can also purchase ORS as a powder or as a pre-mixed liquid oral rehydration solution, also called ORS, from a drugstore or pharmacy. Taking ORS by mouth replenishes the water and [simple_tooltip text="electrolytes" tooltip="Electrically charged minerals present in body fluids that regulate the smooth functioning of the nerves, cells, muscles, heart, and brain" ] lost from the body during health conditions such as diarrhea. Hence, ORS is a common component of oral rehydration therapy (ORT). Keep reading this post to learn more about when babies need ORS, its benefits, the right quantities to administer it, and tips to make ORS at home. [mj-toc] When Do Babies Need Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT)? [caption id="attachment_887789"...
Many parents may consider trying Vicks for babies when they develop a common cold. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that infants may have eight to ten bouts of the common cold during the first two years (1). Vicks VapoRub is a product popular among parents since it is a [simple_tooltip text="topical" tooltip="Applied on the surface of the body" ] medication, and other oral over-the-counter medicines are not recommended for babies. But is this popular remedy safe for babies? Read this post to know the safety, effectiveness, correct use, and alternatives to Vicks VapoRub for babies. This post is for informational purposes only and not a promotional piece for the manufacturer. We suggest you talk to a pediatrician before using any OTC medicines for your baby. [mj-toc] Is Vicks VapoRub Safe For A Baby? [caption id="attachment_887703" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Vicks VapoRub should not be used on babies younger than two years (2). Vicks BabyRub is an option manufactured by...
Grunting in babies is characterized by short, guttural noises that indicate strain, especially when they are trying to pass stool. Babies may grunt to relieve tension, express their irritation or frustration, or gain their parents’ attention. Babies may also grunt when they try to adjust to changes in feeding. However, in most cases, grunting is a sign that the baby is adjusting to passing stools (1). Grunting in babies is common, but it may be a sign of an underlying problem in some cases. Read this post to learn more about the causes of grunting in babies, ways to interpret grunting sounds, and ways to manage grunting in babies. [mj-toc] Is Grunting Normal In Babies? Towards the end of the first year, grunting could be used as a means of communication (2). It is informally known as grunting baby syndrome (GBS), which is relatively normal in babies. It could also be an indication of your baby learning to have a...
Bruising in children is caused by skin injuries that result in discoloration of the affected sites. When the skin gets bruised, the blood from the damaged blood cells collects under the skin, which causes the bruise to appear deep red, purple, blue, or black. Whether it is a toddler trying to walk or a child learning to play basketball, children often slip over and hit surfaces, bruising different body parts. Minor bruising caused by slips, falls, or skids is common and rarely a cause of worry. It can be treated and managed at home and often fades away in a few weeks without medical intervention. However, if your child develops bruises with no identifiable cause, it could indicate an underlying medical problem or physical abuse. Read on to learn how normal bruising differs from abnormal bruising, the signs of abnormal bruising, and its possible causes, treatment, and prevention. [mj-toc] What Is Normal Bruising In Children? A bruise often leads to...
Many parents would consider an alternative for refined sugars for their child as it lacks nutrients and is high in calorific value. Maple syrup for babies has been increasingly used as an alternative, natural sweetener. It is a derivative of sugar maple trees with a unique and sweet flavor (1). Pure maple syrup is a good source of antioxidants and micronutrients that could benefit a baby\'s health. However, due to its high sugar content, you may be doubtful about giving maple syrup to your babies. This post explains the right age to add maple syrup to your baby\'s diet. Also, learn more about the safety, benefits, and possible risks of maple syrup in babies. [mj-toc] Is Maple Syrup Safe For Babies? [caption id="attachment_891261" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] When compared to honey, maple syrup is safer. Maple syrup directly comes from the sap inside the maple tree, making it free of [simple_tooltip text="botulinum" tooltip="A bacteria that can produce toxins and lead...
Six-year-olds can read books independently, speak entire phrases, comprehend numbers, and draw various geometric forms. So it\'s the right time to start laying the foundation for learning by enrolling them in different activities for 6-year-olds. You don\'t have to always force children to participate in educational activities. There are various other fascinating methods to have fun while learning new things. Continue reading this post to learn about numerous activities your child would like. [mj-toc]30 Activities For Six-Year-Olds Fun Activities One of the most important activities that your child should do is play. But as parents, you may want them to learn something while playing. We have some fun learning activities that your kid can enjoy while also reaping benefits. 1. Tongue twisters Tongue twisters are a combination of unusual sounds and are often difficult to pronounce. They are a good way for children to improve their vocabulary and pronunciation. Your six-year-old can have a fun time by repeating the funny...
There may be several causes for vomiting in babies, ranging from indigestion and excessive crying to gastrointestinal tract anomalies. Although occasional vomiting in babies is not a cause for concern, persistent, severe vomiting requires immediate medical attention. This is important to detect and treat the underlying cause and avoid dehydration in babies. Read on to learn more about the possible causes and home remedies treatment options for vomiting in babies and when to contact a pediatrician. [mj-toc]Common Causes Of Vomiting In Babies Babies may vomit due to various reasons. These include (1): 1. Reflux A baby’s [simple_tooltip text="esophagus" tooltip="Muscular tube that passes food and liquid from mouth to stomach." ] (food pipe) is not yet matured, so milk may back up into the food pipe after feeding. This may cause milk to come out from the baby\'s mouth or nose. The process of bringing up or gastroesophageal reflux after breastfeeding or bottle feeding is called spitting up, or [simple_tooltip text="posseting"...
Medical cannabis or medical marijuana for children is used as a treatment option for certain ailments, as suggested by the child’s doctor. Cannabis is a derivative of the cannabis plant, which contains cannabinoids. These chemical compounds bind to the innate cannabinoid receptors of the brain, leading to the induction of some therapeutic reactions. However, you may be curious to know the effects of these reactions in children and whether these effects outweigh the possible risk of complications. Read on to address your concerns and explore the medicinal aspects of marijuana, its recommended usage, and potential side effects in children. [mj-toc]Health Conditions Where Marijuana Is Used As Medicine Medicinal marijuana contains over a hundred unique compounds called phytocannabinoids. The ones with the maximum significance are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabinoid (CBD) (1). Quite often, the compounds are extracted from the plant and provided to the child as an oral liquid or lozenges. THC and CBD may provide potential relief from some medical...
The risk of smallpox in children is no longer a major concern since it is now considered a disease of the past. However, it was a highly contagious and serious infection in its time. The last known outbreak was in 1949, with its last natural spread occurring in 1977. The disease was eradicated in 1980 (1). Since the disease no longer exists, smallpox vaccines are no longer administered to the general public. However, since the risk of countries using the causative agent of smallpox (variola virus) as a biological weapon exists, vaccines and readiness programs for smallpox are available in case of a crisis (2). If a case is reported today, it would be a severe health emergency. Therefore in this post, we help you understand smallpox, including its causes, symptoms, treatments, and preventive measures. [mj-toc]Causes Of Smallpox In Children Smallpox was caused by the variola virus (VARV), which belongs to the genus orthopoxvirus. Variola virus occurred in the following...
Infantile scoliosis or infantile idiopathic scoliosis refers to an abnormal, side-to-side curving of the spine in children younger than three years. The spine curvature is considered abnormal when its angle is greater than 10 degrees. This painless condition develops during the intrauterine period or after birth. Infantile scoliosis is different from congenital scoliosis. Most cases of infantile scoliosis cause mild curvature, requiring minimal to no treatment. However, in moderate to severe curvature cases, medical intervention is needed to eliminate or minimize complications. This post tells about the symptoms, possible causes, diagnosis, and treatment of infantile scoliosis. [mj-toc]Signs And Symptoms Of Infantile Scoliosis [caption id="attachment_881227" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] The symptoms and their intensity could vary depending on the extent of curvature. Mild infantile scoliosis may not be easily discernible. Moderate to severe infantile scoliosis could cause the following signs and symptoms (1). Abnormal changes in the posture Tilted, uneven position of the shoulders, where one shoulder blade bulges out more...
Babies with a roundish appearance look adorable. Besides, these so-called “fat babies” are generally considered healthier than lean and thin babies. However, though the fat gain in babies reflects healthy growth and development, excess fat is not desirable. So how much fat gain in babies is considered excessive? Knowing this is vital as not all babies who look bulky are overweight or obese. Rather, it is normal for most babies to be slightly heavy and plump. Read on to learn about excess fat in babies, when heavier babies are considered healthy and when they are not, and how parents can prevent their babies from gaining excessive weight. [mj-toc]Are “Fat Babies” Healthy? According to Richard I. Shader, MD, “most adequately nourished newborns have fat rolls on their legs and arms and noticeably short to absent necks (1).” At birth, about 15 percent of the baby’s weight is fat, which is higher than many mammals. Therefore, babies naturally tend to have a...
Baby poop color and texture can help parents and caregivers know if the baby is doing well. Newborn’s poop has a broad color range and is completely different in color and texture from adult poop. During the first few months after birth, you will notice many changes in your infant’s poop color and texture. These changes can be due to diet and the baby’s overall health. But, then, sometimes these changes may be due to unidentifiable causes and may not mean anything necessarily. In most cases, poop color changes aren’t a cause of worry. However, some changes in baby poop color or texture may indicate an underlying health problem in some cases. Therefore, it is good to be watchful of changes in the baby’s poop color and texture so that you can talk to the pediatrician and clarify your doubts, if any. Read on to know about the various colors and textures of baby poop, helping you differentiate between normal...
Warts are skin growths that develop on different body parts and are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They are harmless but are contagious and spread easily. Warts on kids usually occur on hands, feet, and fingers and spread out to other bodily parts. However, they can also occur in adults. Learn about the several causes, symptoms, and treatment options and how to avoid spreading warts on kids. [mj-toc]What Causes Warts In Children? Children get warts on their skin when they are infected by HPV. Different types of papillomaviruses cause different types of warts. Children could get warts when they come in contact with the virus in the following ways (1) (2). Touching an infected person Using objects that have been touched by an HPV-infected person Touching surfaces or floors that have the virus from another infected person Staying barefoot in public places, such as locker rooms [mj_protip type="Point to consider" title="Point to consider"]Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) makes the skin damp,...
Pink eye (conjunctivitis) in kids is a common eye infection among those younger than five years (1). This condition causes inflammation of the membrane covering the eyeball and the inside of the eyelid (conjunctiva). Viral or bacterial infections and allergic reactions can cause pink eyes in children. Infectious conjunctivitis is highly contagious, and there can be large outbreaks in schools or daycare centers (2). Teaching hand hygiene and not rubbing eyes with unwashed hands may help to reduce the incidence of conjunctivitis. Read on to know the causes, symptoms, treatment, home remedies, and preventive measures for pink eye (conjunctivitis) in kids. [mj-toc]What Does Pink Eye Look Like? [caption id="attachment_670557" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] The sclera or the white of the eye may look red or pink with an absence of any eye injury. It may appear irritated, and the child may have a watery eye. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/watery-eyes-in-children-causes-and-symptoms_00329709/" title="Watery Eyes (Epiphora) In Children: Causes, Treatment, And Remedies"] [caption id="attachment_670558" align="alignnone" width="720"]...
Folliculitis in children is when a child’s hair follicles get inflamed due to an infection. The infected follicles usually have an acne-like appearance and may cause slight pain and redness. Folliculitis is most commonly caused by bacteria and may resolve spontaneously within seven to ten days. However, the infection could sustain for longer in some children, causing boils to rise. In such cases, the child may require medications (a course of antibiotics) to manage the condition (1). The common areas where the infection occurs are on the scalp, legs, arms, and buttocks. Keep browsing as we tell you about the possible causes, diagnoses, and treatment options for folliculitis in children. [mj-toc]Symptoms Of Folliculitis In Children Folliculitis infection looks like red bumps and could be mistaken for acne. These red bumps would resolve or gradually turn into pus-filled boils known as furuncles. When a group of hair follicles gets infected and forms large painful swellings with multiple pus-discharging boils known as carbuncles,...
If you frequently discover your baby sleeping on the floor or if your baby enjoys spending time on the floor, you may wonder if sleeping on the floor is safe for your baby and if there are any potential benefits. Sleeping on the floor is a centuries-old custom still practiced in many cultures. However, you must take some measures if you want to let your baby sleep on the floor. This post discusses the answers to various concerns that you may have about your infant sleeping on the floor and provides some safety measures. [mj-toc]Is Sleeping On The Floor Safe For Babies? According to the Canadian Government safety standards, children under one year of age need to sleep on their backs on a firm surface (1). As the floor is a firm surface, you can make your baby sleep on the floor as long as you take all the necessary measures. However, talk to your pediatrician and take their opinion...
What is the thyroid gland and why is it important? What is hypothyroidism? What are the types of hypothyroidism? Why is hypothyroidism caused? What are the signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism? How is hypothyroidism diagnosed? How is hypothyroidism treated in children? What are the foods to eat and foods to avoid in hypothyroidism What are the possible complications of hypothyroidism? Childhood is the time to grow, learn, and be robust. But in some cases, it doesn’t happen as certain health issues like hypothyroidism mitigate the development of a child. Slow growth rate, low metabolism, and increasing fatigue are the signs of hypothyroidism in children. MomJunction tells you about the importance of the thyroid gland, the causes, and symptoms of hypothyroidism and the ways to control it. Let’s begin with knowing about the thyroid gland. What Is The Thyroid Gland And Why Is It Important? The thyroid gland is an endocrine gland, shaped like a butterfly and located down in the front...
What is Tylenol? Tylenol/ acetaminophen dosage for kids Effects of an acetaminophen overdose What to do in the case of Tylenol overdose in kids? What are the side effects of Tylenol/ acetaminophen? Precautions To Take While Giving Acetaminophen To Children Whenever our kids have a fever or aches, we give them the ‘harmless’ acetaminophen. And it provides relief from the pain almost immediately. But after a few hours, the fever/ pain comes back, and we give one more dose. We are happy that the child’s suffering has come down but what if we unknowingly overdose them? We tell you about the right doses of acetaminophen (Tylenol) for kids, the side-effects of an overdose and more about the drug. What Is Tylenol/Panado Or Acetaminophen? Tylenol is the trade name for the generic drug ingredient acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol. Acetaminophen works as an analgesic or pain reliever, and antipyretic or fever reducer (1). It is manufactured under several brand names Tylenol,...
What is melatonin? What is melatonin used for? Is it safe for children? Melatonin dosage for children Side-effects of melatonin Natural sources of melatonin Too much melatonin? Our bodies are apparently so much in sync with nature that when the natural world goes to rest, our body also prepares to sleep. At the end of the day, when it gets dark, a particular hormone signals the body that it is time to rest and helps you sleep. That hormone is called melatonin. Also referred to as the sleep hormone, melatonin helps regulate the body’s clock so that we can sleep long enough and wake up refreshed. But, when the body is unable to produce enough amount of melatonin, intake of melatonin supplement may become necessary. In this article, MomJunction tells you about melatonin for kids, its uses, dosages, and side-effects. What Is Melatonin? Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the pineal gland, which is located right above the middle...
Jump to: Uses Of Ibuprofen Ibuprofen Dosage Side Effects of Ibuprofen Precautions For Taking Ibuprofen Kids usually have an active lifestyle – they play, jump, ride bikes, and run around. A few adventurous ones also climb trees and go hiking with friends or family. It’s fun while it lasts. But at the end of the day, when it is time for bed, the aches and sprains in the body start to show up. When I have body aches or a headache, I pop in an ibuprofen. But how about an ibuprofen for children? Yes, ibuprofen can be given to children and babies aged six months or more, for treating a variety of symptoms including fever and pains in the body. However, the quantity given to children varies from that of adults. MomJunction tells you everything about the anti-inflammatory drug called ibuprofen and about the right dosages for kids. Read: Viral Fever In Children ] Is Ibuprofen Safe For Kids? Yes....