Does my child have strep throat? A scratchy throat doesn’t always mean strep. There are many reasons kids experience throat discomfort, including the flu, COVID-19, seasonal allergies or the common cold. “Assuming you know what the cause of the sore throat is can delay treatment and cause unnecessary worry,” said Patrick K. Hynes, M.D., pediatrician…
Your child has flu symptoms: a dry cough, runny nose and a sore throat. The pediatrician does a flu test, but it’s negative. What do you do when someone has flu symptoms but a negative flu test? “It’s hard watching our kids not feel good,” said Patrick K. Hynes, M.D., pediatrician with Norton Children’s Medical…
When most parents hear “RSV,” they usually think of sick infants and babies. While respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is most serious for infants (children ages 12 months and under), many families are surprised to learn that RSV in children — including toddlers and preschoolers — sometimes can cause more severe symptoms than expected. “Parents often…
If your child is diagnosed with sickle cell disease, they may require additional support at school. Symptoms of sickle cell disease can cause fatigue, pain episodes and frequent classroom absences. That’s why it’s important to notify the school of your child’s diagnosis: to advocate for their health, safety, academic progress, and support in their school…
Many parents fear the worst when they hear “sickle cell,” wondering whether their child will face lifelong health concerns. However, understanding the difference between sickle cell trait versus sickle cell disease is an important distinction when it comes to managing your child’s health. “Parents should know that sickle cell trait is not the same thing…
Your child is now old enough for “the talk.” You’re probably wondering, where do you start? What do you say? How do you discuss details without making it weird? For many parents, talking to teens about sex and relationships can feel awkward or overwhelming. These conversations, however, are among the most important ones you’ll have…
Parenting a teenager comes with plenty of challenges, but when your teen seems more withdrawn, irritable or overwhelmed than usual, it’s natural to wonder: Is this normal adolescent behavior, or are they showing real symptoms of anxiety and depression in teens? You’re not alone in asking that question. Today’s teens are under a lot of…
Your kid is complaining about headaches, so you probably reach for the ibuprofen — but have you considered trying magnesium for migraine in children? Certain dietary supplements, or nutraceuticals, and other alternative therapies may help reduce the frequency and severity of migraine in children. “If your child experiences headaches, exploring safe alternative and complementary therapies…
Vaccines are a safe and essential part of keeping children healthy. They protect against serious illnesses like measles, whooping cough and polio — and help prevent the spread of disease to others, including babies and people with weakened immune systems. It’s normal for parents to have questions. Here is a guide to clear up common…
If your child has school anxiety — maybe they seem stressed about homework and tests, or they’ve recently told you they don’t feel like going to school — you’re not alone. Sometimes, elementary and middle school students face social or academic pressures that can cause negative feelings toward their school environment. “As kids get older,…
If your newborn is fussy and seems uncomfortable, especially after feeding, you might wonder whether they’re sick or just gassy. If it is normal gas, then what’s the best gas relief for babies? “Newborns cry for many reasons, and gas is often one of them,” said Heather M. Felton, M.D., pediatrician with Norton Children’s Medical…
When your baby starts to feel warm, it can be anxiety-inducing for parents. Is it “normal” or is it time to visit the emergency room? The truth is: Fever in a newborn is considered a medical emergency. “For babies under 3 months old, a fever isn’t just a sign of illness — it can signal…