Having a baby spend time in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is a marathon-type event. It requires stamina, patience, and courage. Really. What happens after the NICU, though? Once you are home with your baby, what can you do to help prepare for the next steps? Many babies who have been discharged from the…
If you have wondered whether your baby or child has autism, a first step is often an evaluation in the pediatrician’s office. Yes, it can be the same pediatrician that checks growth charts and treats ear infections. Many pediatricians do not formally diagnose autism (especially in one visit), but they can get the process started…
If you or your child have ongoing health issues, just scheduling a doctor’s visit is stressful enough. Arriving and trying to explain everything is even harder. How can the appointment be a little less easier? Finding a way to organize and communicate your thoughts can help a lot. One of the best ways to keep track…
It’s after bedtime. Everyone is tucked in and nearly asleep. Then, there’s a wail from a child’s room, “My foot hurts!” Why would a child complain about foot pain at night? There are many possibilities. Today I’ll review a few of the most common reasons a child’s feet may hurt at night. Then, I’ll list…
If someone suffers from migraine headaches, they may look everywhere for a cause . . . and a cure. Migraines are debilitating. They dramatically affect quality of life, daily activities, and overall health. Children and teens miss school due to these severe headaches. In the search for a treatment, some may wonder if an orthodontic…
Your baby is already a year old! This feels huge. With turning one comes a doctor’s appointment. Also called a well child check or a preventive visit, this appointment is a busy one. Many parents ask which lab tests are done at one year-old’s appointments. This post reviews the recommended bloodwork for one year-olds, why…
Maybe you’ve been told your baby has an umbilical hernia. You’re not alone. Umbilical hernias in babies are pretty common. They appear like skin-colored lumps that bulge out at the belly button. Families have many questions, of course. One that comes up a lot involves “tummy time.” Parents often ask if tummy time is okay…
Today, let’s talk about teaching kids how to use a toilet, (also known as potty training). Potty training isn’t exactly a medical issue . . . until it is. If a child struggles with the potty and then refuses to go, it can lead to several unquestionably medical concerns. So, I’d like to prevent such…
During cold, flu, or allergy season, parents look for every possible way to relieve their kids’ discomfort. Especially sore throats! Whether home remedies or something from the pharmacy, options abound. Enter cough drops. They don’t require a prescription. Many adults love cough drops as a quick way to soothe a sore throat. So, can we give…
