MBBS, DNB
Dr. Richard Mario Lurshay has around 11 years of experience in the care of children and their well-being. After completing his post-graduation in Pediatrics, he completed his training in Pediatric Nutrition from Boston University School of Medicine (USA).He is an esteemed Life Member of National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS), National Neonatology Forum (NNF) and Indian Academy of Paediatrics (IAP).Dr. Richard Lurshay currently practices in Fortis La Femme Hospital, Richmond Road, Bangalore, as an Attending Consultant.He is known for his kindness to children, patient listening to parents, and judicious use of antibiotics. He is up-to date with the latest guidelines and is ethical in his diagnosis and treatment of children.
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Appendicitis in teens can be presented with abdominal pain that may often begin in the belly button and move toward the right lower quadrant of the abdomen. The appendix is a small, finger-like projection on the intestine at the beginning of the large intestine (colon), and its inflammation is called appendicitis. It is the common cause of emergency abdominal surgery in young people aged 11 to 20. Male teens with a positive family history are more likely to develop appendicitis (1). Removal of the appendix does not impact health since it is a vestigial organ (useless part). However, if left unmanaged, an inflamed appendix can rupture and cause infections and other problems in teens. Read on to know the causes, signs, complications, diagnosis, and treatment for appendicitis in teens. [mj-toc] Signs And Symptoms Of Appendicitis In Teenagers [caption id="attachment_888739" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] The signs and symptoms of appendicitis in teens include (2): Abdominal pain due to appendicitis usually begins...
Many people ponder how to get rid of baby fat on face because it gives a chubby look with a broad face and puffy eyes. Fat on the face can be caused due to different reasons such as obesity or lack of sleep. Finding the cause behind the baby fat on your face can help you tackle the issue. Also, you need to tone your face by following a healthy diet and working out regularly. Reducing fat just from the face (spot reduction) is not possible unless you decide on having surgery. A good and healthy non-surgical facial contouring can be achieved by losing extra weight from the entire body. Read the post to know more about what causes baby fat on the face and effective ways to get rid of it. [mj-toc] Causes Of Facial Bloating [caption id="attachment_889714" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Some of the main reasons for accumulation of fat on the face are: Obesity: Being overweight can...
Dyspepsia or indigestion in children can be a symptom of several underlying conditions. Children of any age can experience this problem, and indigestion can be occasional or regular, depending on its cause. If your child has been experiencing regular indigestion, it is important to seek a doctor’s advice to understand the cause. Read on to know more about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of pediatric dyspepsia. [mj-toc] What Are The Symptoms Of Indigestion In Kids? Indigestion itself is not a disease. In some cases, it can be a symptom of an underlying condition. Duration and the associated symptoms may vary depending on the cause. The following signs and symptoms are common during indigestion (1): Abdominal pain or discomfort Bloating Burping (belching) Gurgling or churning stomach Acid reflux [simple_tooltip text="Heartburn" tooltip="A common discomfort caused due to reflux of stomach contents to the food pipe, marked by a burning sensation in the chest " ]that can be felt as a...
A bald spot while combing your child's hair can make you greatly worried and anxious. It may seem unusual, but baldness may develop in children, a condition known as pediatric alopecia. There are various causes of alopecia in children, with alopecia areata (AA) being the most common form. The following post addresses all the questions regarding alopecia areata in children, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, prevention strategies, and prognosis in children. [mj-toc] What Is Alopecia Areata? [caption id="attachment_896234" align="alignnone" width="720"] Alopecia areata; Australian Journal of General Practice[/caption] Alopecia areata (AA) is a condition that causes hair loss through circular patches of baldness on any part of the body. Alopecia means hair loss, and areata means occurrence in a circular pattern (1). Alopecia areata in children mostly occurs on the scalp where you will see distinct round patches with no hair on it. The extent of hair loss determines the type of alopecia. Types of alopecia There are three types...
Vicks VapoRub is a popular, topical medication commonly used to lessen the symptoms of a common cold or flu. While it is generally used in adults, parents could be unsure about using Vicks VapoRub for children. This [simple_tooltip text="ointment" tooltip="A oily substance applied to the skin to soothe or treat wounds, rashes, burns, and scrapes" ] is effective in relieving inflammation in the [simple_tooltip text="mucous membrane" tooltip="The moist inner lining of organs and body cavities" ] of the throat and nose. Other indications of its use are sore throat, cough, nasal congestion, minor pains, and ache (1). The active components of this medication are menthol, camphor (known for their pain-relieving and cough suppressing actions), and eucalyptus oil (known for controlling cough) (2). Browse through this post to learn about the benefits, precautions, and more about using Vicks VapoRub for kids. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/fever-blisters-in-children_00387527/" title="Cold Sores (Fever Blisters) In Kids: Causes And Treatment"] [mj-toc] Is It Safe To Use Vicks VapoRub For...
Although some lung cancer cases are noticed in young people, primary lung cancer in teens is rare. Smoking is the major risk factor for lung cancer, and the risk may vary depending on the duration of smoking and the number of cigarettes. Some teens may develop [simple_tooltip text="metastatic" tooltip="A progressive stage of cancer leading to the spread of cancerous cells from one place of the body to another" ] or secondary lung cancers followed by other childhood cancers. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide (1). Therefore, it is recommended to seek medical care to identify the cause of persistent respiratory symptoms and cease smoking habits. Read on to know the causes, types, symptoms, tests, prevention, and management of lung cancer in teens. [mj-toc] Symptoms Of Lung Cancer In Teenagers [caption id="attachment_885825" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] Early stages of cancer can be asymptomatic. The following signs and symptoms can be seen in lung cancers, especially in the...
Toddlers throwing things is considered normal if this behavior does not become a pattern. Learning to throw is a developmental milestone that requires developed motor skills and good hand–eye coordination. However, if you notice that your child throws things to gain attention, consider discussing it with a professional to detect any underlying issues. It is important to understand the reason behind a toddler’s behaviors, such as throwing things, to help them rectify them and inculcate better behaviors. Read this post to understand what makes toddlers throw things and how you can help them manage this behavior. [mj-toc] Why Do Toddlers Throw Things? The simple act of throwing things could have several underlying reasons. A toddler may throw things for the following reasons (1) (2). According to Maria Pistorio, LPC, NCC, a therapist specializing in EMDR, CBT therapy, and parent-child interaction therapy, “Toddlers often throw things instead of playing gently for many reasons. Sometimes, emotional dysregulation, which is in short supply...
Hypothermia is characterized by the body’s temperature dropping below the normal range. While it may occur in both adults and children, low temperature in babies can be a cause for concern because infants cannot maintain their body temperature. If prompt treatment is not provided, low body temperature may lead to complications (1). Read this post to learn about the causes, risks, symptoms, and preventive measures for low temperature in babies. [mj-toc] How To Know If Your Baby Has Low Temperature? According to the guidelines released by the Whole Health Organization (WHO), essential care is required during delivery and the initial days after birth as a newborn’s body is not yet developed to regulate the body temperature. The average body temperature of an infant ranges between 35.5℃ and 37.5℃ when measured orally, 36.6℃ and 38℃ when measured rectally, 35.8℃ and 38℃ when measured through the ear, and 36.5℃ and 37.5℃ when measured in the armpit. Your baby is said to be...
Dengue fever in children is pretty common. It is a vector-borne disease caused by the dengue virus (DENV) that spreads through infected mosquitoes and is commonly seen in tropical and subtropical areas. Females of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are responsible for the transmission of dengue among humans. There are four types of dengue virus, so a child can get infections with a different type than before. There is no specific cure, and the disease is managed with symptomatic and supportive treatments. Doctors may recommend home treatment for mild dengue. Severe dengue requires hospitalization due to the increased risk for serious complications (1). Read on to know the cause, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dengue in children. [mj-toc] How Common Is Dengue In Children and How Does It Spread? According to WHO, severe dengue prevalent in some Asian and Latin American countries is one of the leading causes for hospitalization of children and adults alike (1). Also, children under the age...
Epsom salt possesses medicinal and [simple_tooltip text="therapeutic" tooltip="Curing a disease or disorder with medications and care." ] properties to help with muscle relaxation, pain relief, and mind and body rejuvenation. However, if you plan to try an Epsom salt bath for babies, you must ensure its safety and know about it for making the right decision. Epsom salt is a water-soluble chemical compound, primarily known as magnesium sulfate. Despite the several claims by experts from alternative medicine, there is still limited research on its benefits. Read on as we have included essential information on Epsom salt, its potential benefits, and precautionary measures to take if you choose to go ahead with the bath. [mj-toc] Is Epsom Salt Bath Safe For Babies? When done appropriately under expert guidance, Epsom salt bath is likely safe for babies. However, like any other substance, improper use or overuse of Epsom salt can have potential adverse effects. Thus, it is crucial to consult a certified...
Hypotension or low blood pressure in children can be due to various reasons. This is when the systolic or top reading pressure goes below 90mmHg, and the diastolic pressure or the bottom reading is below 60mmHg (1). According to most pediatric care guidelines, these blood pressure measures are less than the 5th percentile for children aged ten years or more. However, the normal measurements may vary in younger children. So you may seek pediatricians' help to determine hypotension in children. Read on to know more about the causes, symptoms, and management of low blood pressure in children. [mj-toc] Types Of Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) In Children The threshold of blood pressure in adults is usually static. However, it differs in children based on their age, height, and gender percentile (2). Hypotension can be classified into four categories: Orthostatic hypotension: It happens when a child’s blood pressure falls when they are in a standing posture for a long time. They may...
Gastroenteritis, also known as the stomach flu, is caused due to an infection in the intestines. It may affect babies and toddlers, resulting in serious health problems. Stomach flu in toddlers may have several causative factors, but the common flu virus is not responsible for the infection (1). Read this post as we discuss stomach flu in toddlers, its causes, treatment, and ways to manage the infection with some home remedies. [mj-toc] What Is Stomach Flu In Toddlers? Stomach flu is an infection that affects parts of the gastrointestinal tract (2). Commonly referred to as the ‘stomach bug,’ the infection develops when pathogens attack the gastrointestinal tract and cause widespread inflammation of the digestive system, making it dysfunctional. The infection can affect any part of the digestive system –from the stomach to the large intestine. A slew of bacteria and viruses cause this infection in babies. What Causes Stomach Flu In Toddlers? The following are the most common pathogens to...
Kajal, also called Surma or kohl, has been commonly used as an eye care product or cosmetic since ancient times in India, Pakistan, the Middle East, and some parts of Africa (1). But, while adults use it commonly to adorn their eyes or for health benefits, is it safe to use kajal on a baby’s eyes? The kohl stone (galena) is processed into its ultra-fine form and incorporated with other therapeutically active ingredients to make kajal (2). Some people also make it at home using edible oils. Read this post to understand the safety, uses, possible alternatives, and some methods of preparing chemical-free kajal at home. [mj-toc] Is Kajal Safe For Babies? [caption id="attachment_893317" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Kajal has been in use in several cultures. Although there is no research-based evidence available, people usually make kajal at home or buy the ones manufactured using natural ingredients. However, in the past few years, research has said that kajal is not...
You don’t have to miss out on adventures after your baby arrives. You simply need the right tips for traveling with a baby to gear up and be prepared. A fussy baby may be more difficult to handle while traveling. The heavy suitcases and bags full of souvenirs can make it difficult to look after your baby. In addition, when you are traveling with your little one, you may face different difficulties in the various forms of transport. Amidst all these challenges, you need to keep your baby and yourself safe and comfortable. Keep reading this post, where we have put together some useful tips to make traveling with your baby easy and fun. [mj-toc] Preparing For Air Travel With A Baby Travel by air is highly regulated and requires extensive preparation. Here is what you should know about air travel with a baby. 1. Consider the baby’s age The US Federal Aviation Administration, as well as the American Academy...
An immature digestive system or poor valve closure (pyloric sphincter) in the upper end of the stomach is responsible for your baby throwing up mucus or milk. While it is normal for babies to spit up occasionally, it may be a cause for concern if it happens quite often. However, many factors can cause it to happen often, and it can be treated based on the underlying cause. Read this post to know why your baby spits up mucus and some management options for this condition. [mj-toc] How Normal Is It For A Baby To Spit Up Mucus? While it is normal for babies to spit up mucus or milk occasionally, you should be concerned if it becomes a repeated occurrence (more than a few times a day). If the mucus contains traces of blood, or you spot signs of distress in your baby, seek medical attention. So, what could be the possible reasons behind babies spitting up mucus? Read...
Body odor in babies is distinctive, and they may often smell of baby products or milk. However, babies who are not bathed on time or wear unclean clothes can have a sour or pungent odor. Most mothers could sense their babies smelling and try to keep them clean. Some babies can even leave a cake or fruity odor. On the other side, some may smell rotten fish or cabbage. You may seek medical care to determine the causes of unusual body smell in babies. Read on to know the causes, treatment, and remedies for various body odors in babies. [mj-toc] Normal Types Of Body Odor In Babies [caption id="attachment_886497" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] The following body odors are very common among babies, and you need not worry about it. 1. Milky odor Babies often smell of milk. The peculiar body odor fades away when your baby's milk intake reduces, and they graduate to a solid diet. 2. Sour odor Sometimes...
Your baby is a quarter away from their first birthday at nine months. A 9-month-old baby can crawl, but they may also stand with assistance. They have a lot of surprises in store for you, like for the first time calling you "mama" and "dada." Babies also go through various crucial changes that indicate their positive growth at this age. This post acquaints you with the nine-month-old baby's developmental milestones pertaining to their physical, mental, social, and emotional growth. [mj-toc] 9-Month-Old Developmental Milestones Chart ACHIEVED DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES EMERGING DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES Crawls for a shorter distance and then sits Will crawl faster and for longer distances Stands with support Will step forward holding a support Says basic words such as “mama” and “dada” Will speak more basic syllable words Understands “no” Can interpret simple words such as “yes”, “come” and “go” Copies simple gestures Will repeat a wider range of actions and gestures Eyes have depth perception Depth perception will improve...
Most healthy babies are born with well-developed ears, but they can’t hear properly at birth. So, when do babies start hearing after birth? Well, babies are born with a certain hearing ability that improves over several months to reach a level where the baby can hear clearly and gauge the range of sounds. During this period, babies reach age-related hearing milestones, which parents should watch for to detect any underlying hearing problems. So, read on to know more about the development of a baby’s hearing ability, hearing screening tests, and possible causes of hearing problems in babies. [mj-toc] When Do Babies Start Hearing After Birth? [caption id="attachment_880339" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), babies begin to react to sounds at the age of three months (1). It is believed that the baby, as a fetus, begins to recognize and react to sounds from as early as the sixth or seventh gestational month (2). But proper...
MiraLAX for kids is not often recommended since the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve its use due to a lack of clinical trials in children. However, some randomized control trials have shown it to be safe and effective for occasional pediatric use, so doctors may prescribe it to treat constipation in children in some countries, depending on the clinical guidelines. Children can have abdominal pain, lack of appetite, and bloating in constipation. Less than three bowel movements in a week for a few weeks is considered chronic constipation (1). Dietary changes and laxatives, such as MiraLAX, could be given to children with constipation. Read on to know the safety and side effects of Miralax for children. [mj-toc] What Is MiraLAX? MiraLAX is the brand name for the generic compound polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG 3350). This substance belongs to the osmotic laxatives category, which helps in softening the stools by retaining water in the colon, thus increasing...
Hair loss in teenage girls is not a common occurrence. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) states that losing about 50 to 100 strands of hair per day is a natural occurrence (1). However, it is not the same for teenagers. The most common causes for hair loss during teenage include genetic factors, underlying medical reasons, or hormonal imbalances. It should be noted that most of the causes of hair loss in teens are temporary and will go away either on their own or with the help of treatment. Read on to know more about the causes, treatment, and prevention of hair loss in teen girls. [mj-toc] Natural Ways To Prevent Hair Loss In Teenage Girls Healthy diet and hair hygiene can help you have healthy hair. The following measures may help prevent excessive hair loss: Eating a well-balanced diet could help keep the hair roots healthy. Foods rich in vitamins, minerals, iron, and protein may help strengthen hair. Be...
It is soothing to watch babies sleeping peacefully. However, you may occasionally notice your baby sleeping with eyes open and wonder why it happens. It is common for some babies to sleep with completely or partially open eyes, which is called lagophthalmos in medical terms. Open-eyed sleeping in infants is [simple_tooltip text="physiological" tooltip="Relating to the normal functions of living humans and their organs." ], and it is not an indication of any medical conditions or sleep problems. However, it is recommended to seek pediatric evaluation if you notice any other symptoms or anything that prevents them from closing their eyelids. Read on to know why babies sleep with their eyes open and what you can do about it. [mj-toc] Is It Normal For A Baby To Sleep With Open Eyes? [caption id="attachment_890885" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You might feel uneasy to see your baby sleeping with their eyes open. However, you need not worry much, as most of the time,...
Acid reflux in teens is common, and it occurs when the stomach contents come back or regurgitate into the esophagus. It is also called acid indigestion or gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and is more prevalent in children and teens between two and 19 years (1). The esophagus lining gets irritated with stomach acid, and it can cause problems later on. Although occasional acid reflux and heartburn are normal, frequent acid reflux can result from health problems requiring medical care. Diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is often made in teens with severe, long-lasting acid reflux. Usually, acid reflux more than two times a week for subsequent weeks could be GERD (1) (2). Read on to know the causes, symptoms, and treatments for acid reflux in teens. [mj-toc] Is It Normal For A Teenager To Have Acid Reflux? GER is commonly observed in children and teens. However, it doesn’t mean they have GERD. Although around 25% of teens experience GERD symptoms, it...
Many parents worry when their baby does not gain weight as expected; however, it is important to understand that the growth rate among babies varies, as does their weight gain pattern. Healthy newborns lose around 5–10% of their weight within a week of birth (1). However, they regain this weight within two weeks. By 12 months, the birth weight of most babies gets tripled (2). These weight changes indicate healthy growth and optimal calorie consumption in babies. If your baby does not gain enough weight, there is often no reason to worry. Several benign causes lead to slow weight gain in babies. Consult a pediatrician to understand the exact cause and take steps to prevent any long-term problems. Read this post to understand the possible reasons a baby does not gain weight, notable signs and symptoms, and the treatment options available. [mj-toc] Reasons For A Baby Not Gaining Weight A baby may be gaining weight slowly or not gaining weight...
Some parents may be concerned about the safety of using mineral oil for babies. Mineral oil, base oil, or lubricant base oil is a colorless and odorless substance obtained as a distillation product of crude petroleum oil. It comes in varying qualities and grades depending on the refining process. Cosmetic-grade mineral oil is used to prepare cosmetic products for adults and babies. In fact, most commercial baby oils are mineral oils with added fragrance. Parents have been using mineral oil-containing baby products for ages now. However, it comes under frequent scrutiny, raising concerns about its safety for babies. This post aims to answer your queries about the safety of mineral oil, its uses and side effects, and precautions to take when using it on babies. Is Mineral Oil Safe For Babies? When used appropriately, mineral oil’s topical application is likely safe for newborns and older babies. Research shows that mineral oil works as a stable [simple_tooltip text="emollient" tooltip="A liquid or...
Fontanelles are gaps between the skull bones of a newborn. A normal fontanelle feels firm and is slightly curved inwards. A sunken fontanelle in babies may feel sunken or soft and is a cause for concern. Fontanelles are formed by two or more cranial bones that appear side by side. There are six fontanelles in a newborn’s skull, which are located on the top, back, and sides of the head and behind the eyes. They make the baby’s skull flexible enough to pass through the birth canal and allow the brain to grow in size with the growing skull. The molding process of the skull continues for several months after birth before these soft spots close. The average time for closure is between 12 to 18 months (1). The fontanelle at the back may close at around one to two months old, while the one in the front, often called the soft spot, is the last to close at around...
Baby lip blisters are common and usually resolve on their own. They are characterized by minute fluid-filled bumps on the baby’s lips and may not be visible when the lips are closed. Although baby lip blisters do not pose a threat, they are usually subtle signs of latching problems. Identifying the underlying reason behind the baby’s lip blisters might help your doctor treat them and prevent them from recurring. Read this post to know more about what these blisters look like and their causes and management. [mj-toc] How Do Baby Lip Blisters Look Like? Baby lip blisters look like small bubbles on the skin of your baby’s lips and may not be visible when the lips are closed. They generally appear as tiny bubbles on the cupid’s bow or as a big band stretched across the lips. They are usually filled with a clear fluid. In some rare cases, they may also be filled with pus. [caption id="attachment_714871" align="alignnone" width="720"]...
Babies are powerhouses of energy. Most parents wonder how to channelize the energies of their little ones. You may plan some outdoor activities for babies or take them on walks in nature. These short outings could help babies spend their energies so they do not become cranky and irritable. You may step out with your baby in pleasant weather and fit in some simple activities in your schedule to have good times together. Reading this post could help you figure out some outdoor activities and ideas for babies. Including them in your child\'s day-to-day routine may be a great way to allow exposure to nature. You may also educate them about the significance of the conservation of nature. [mj-toc]20 Baby Outdoor Play Activities 1. Take a walk [caption id="attachment_710085" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Buckle up your baby in their pram and walk around your block. The simple activity is stimulating for the parent and the baby. You can walk for...
Bronchiolitis in babies is a lung infection that might appear as a common cold at first, but the symptoms gradually indicate that it is more serious than a cold or viral fever. It causes a persistent cough, nasal congestion (blocked nose), and rhinorrhea (runny nose) in babies and may also cause the baby harder to breathe. While it might be difficult to tell the difference between bronchiolitis and common cold or viral fever, the symptoms of bronchiolitis are unique and easy to identify. Read on to know the causes, risk factors, symptoms, and consequences of bronchiolitis in infants and toddlers, as well as how to treat and prevent it. [mj-toc]What Is Bronchiolitis? [caption id="attachment_450158" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] Bronchiolitis is a viral infection that leads to the swelling of bronchioles, which are tiny air tubes or passages inside the lungs (1). The air passages develop inflammation due to excessive formation of sticky mucus, which clogs the airways and makes it...
Arthritis in teens can cause swollen, painful, and stiff joints with loss of motion for more than six weeks in sequence. Doctors may diagnose juvenile idiopathic arthritis or juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in most teens with swollen and stiff joints with limited movement. These are autoimmune inflammatory conditions of the joints. In the US, around 300,000 children under 18 years are diagnosed with different types of juvenile arthritis (1). If left untreated, arthritis can lead to permanent joint damages and reduced quality of life. However, effective management with early medical care and exercise may help teens cope with arthritis. Read on to learn about types, causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of arthritis in teens. [mj-toc]Types Of Rheumatoid Or Juvenile Arthritis In Teens [caption id="attachment_848950" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Juvenile arthritis is of six types, each with its respective causative factors, symptoms, and prognosis (1) (2) (3). Oligoarticular: This arthritis type affects less than five joints, usually a knee or ankle in...
Sickle cell diseases in babies can be present from birth, and it is caused when a child inherits sickle cell genes from both parents. This inherited blood disorder makes the red blood cells (RBC or erythrocytes) crescent, sickle-shaped, or C-shaped. In addition, sickle cells can be stickier and harder than normal oval-shaped RBCs, and they may fail to move freely in the bloodstream. The abnormal shape of the red blood cells also reduces their oxygen-carrying capacity, and tissues and organs may not get enough oxygen. This may cause pale skin, swelling on extremities, and fast breathing in most babies. Preventive measures to reduce the risk of complications could improve these issues in some cases (1). Read on to know the risk factors, causes, signs, symptoms, complications, and ways to manage sickle cell disease (SCD) in babies. [mj-toc]Causes Of SCD In Babies Sickle cell disease is a group of red blood cell disorders inherited by children from their parents. This is...
Hydronephrosis in babies is a condition where urine gets trapped in the kidney and drains slower than it should into the bladder. It is a common congenital condition and may affect one in 500 babies (1). However, it may also develop later in life for some babies. Further, it is more common in boys than girls (2). Hydronephrosis can be diagnosed before birth (prenatal) or after birth (postnatal). It is treatable, and mild cases resolve without intervention (2). Read this post to learn about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of hydronephrosis in babies. [mj-toc]What Is Hydronephrosis In Newborns? Hydronephrosis is defined as the enlargement or dilation of either one or both kidneys due to urine build-up (3). The condition is also known as urinary tract dilation (UTD). It usually occurs when the urine cannot drain out from the kidney to the bladder due to an obstruction or blockage. The blockage could occur anywhere in the urinary tract — the...
Genital herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Although it is more frequent in adults, it is also possible to find cases of genital herpes in children. During an outbreak, the infection can produce painful and itchy sores in the genital area. After the initial infection, the herpes virus remains dormant in the nerve cells and reactivates in favorable conditions. Genital herpes does not have a complete cure, but medication may assist in controlling the severity of the infection. Read on to know the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of genital herpes in children. [mj-toc]Symptoms Of Genital Herpes Flu-like symptoms are common during a herpes outbreak. You may seek medical care in the initial days since antivirals may reduce the severity of the infection. The following symptoms and signs are usually seen (1). Pain and itching in the genital area Headache [caption id="attachment_892749" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Fever Bumps or blisters in the genital...
Skin abscess in children is a condition where a pocket of pus develops under the skin, causing a red, tender, and swollen boil. Abscesses form when the immune system tries to flush infection-causing germs, such as bacteria, from the body. Children are susceptible to developing an abscess where the skin is cut or broken. In most cases, abscesses burst on their own, draining the pus out and then eventually drying out. However, if an abscess becomes hard or stiff and is painful or if the child develops additional symptoms such as fever or chills, consult your pediatrician or a healthcare provider. Read this post to know more about the causes, symptoms, treatment, and management of abscesses in children. [mj-toc]Causes Of Skin Abscesses In Children When your child’s skin gets injured or broken, bacteria, or fungus present on the surface might enter the body. The body’s immune system recognizes the threat and sends white blood cells to fight the infection-causing microorganisms....
[mj-toc] Jaundice turns your baby yellow. His eyes, skin, and urine turn yellow, leaving you disturbed. Jaundice happens due to the surplus of the body compound called bilirubin. The condition has several biochemical origins and occurs in babies even a few days old. Treatment is essential and is quite readily available. In this MomJunction post, we will tell you why jaundice is caused in babies, what could its possible complications be, and how your baby can come out of it. What Is Jaundice In Babies? Jaundice is the condition where the body produces more bilirubin than the liver can process. Bilirubin is a byproduct of natural red blood cell (RBCs) destruction process. The liver processes bilirubin for the formation of bile that aids in digestion. The excess bilirubin flows into the bloodstream and enters body cells. Since bilirubin has a natural yellow color, it turns the cells and thereby the skin and eyes yellow. Jaundice in infants is known as...
[mj-toc] Deep breathing, also known as belly breathing, abdominal breathing, or diaphragmatic breathing, may help promote respiratory health and reduce stress in children. It may also help strengthen the muscles involved in the respiration process (1). Seek medical advice to choose an appropriate breathing exercise if your child has any chronic illness. In this MomJunction post, we bring you a few fun breathing techniques for kids. Fun Breathing Exercises To Calm Kids Fun activities requiring deep breaths can be the best way to engage your child, as they may not like to sit down and do deep breathing meditation or yoga. The following fun activities help your child take deep breaths: 1. Bubble blowing Bubble blowing is an excellent way to make children take deep breaths. They should blow gently and slowly to create air bubbles from a soap solution. This activity can help reduce stress and improve their respiratory health. You can prepare this solution at home using water,...