The cost of insulin keeps rising, making it difficult for diabetes patients to afford their lifesaving medication. Today, one vial of insulin, which manages a diabetic’s blood sugar, can cost hundreds of dollars, forcing many people with diabetes to pay exorbitant prices or even resort to rationing their doses in an attempt to manage their…
The commonly-known “goal” for healthy blood pressure in adults is 120/80, but this guideline does not apply to many children. “What is considered a healthy reading for adults could indicate an unhealthy blood pressure for some children,” said Jyothi M. Matta, M.D., pediatric cardiologist with Norton Children’s Heart Institute. How does blood pressure work? Blood…
Thirty-nine years ago, Diane Burnett, APRN, wasn’t sure she was cut out to care for kids with cancer and blood disorders. Give it a year, she figured. “I didn’t know if I would be a good fit for that,” Diane said. As it turned out, she was, and Diane’s job became a passion. One year…
With Kentucky still outpacing the nation in instances of child abuse, state officials and Norton Children’s announced $6 million from the Kentucky General Assembly aimed at reducing the number of child deaths and injuries related to abuse. An additional $2 million has been committed to the initiative by the Norton Children’s Hospital Foundation thanks to…
A seizure that lasts more than five minutes, or at least two seizures without full recovery in between, can cause brain damage or worse in children and newborns. Call 911 and get emergency treatment immediately. Prolonged seizures, known as status epilepticus, are very serious and life-threatening, according to Jeetendra P. Sah, M.D., child neurologist at…
As child abuse rates in Kentucky remain higher than the national average, keeping children healthy and safe is every person’s priority. If you’re raising kids, are a caregiver for kids, or spend time around kids — make a plan on how to deal with challenging times that are bound to happen. Here’s what you can…
Laura B. Cornwell, M.D., hadn’t set her sights on a career in medicine until midway through high school. The Louisville native traveled to Chicago, Illinois, to visit her older sister, who was then in her first year of training after medical school. From that moment on, the then-teenager knew she wanted to be a doctor….
When a patient is newly diagnosed with diabetes, learning how to effectively manage their condition is a top priority at the Wendy Novak Diabetes Institute, part of Norton Children’s Endocrinology. A support staff of dietitians, social workers, child life specialists, doctors and nurses provide a host of diabetes resources to help kids and their families…
Pediatric orthopedists in Louisville are seeing more children who are injured from falls on skateboards, hoverboards and other ride-on toys. “Some parents may wonder if skateboards or hoverboards are safe for children, and if families choose to buy them, they need to take precautions to help minimize the risk for injuries,” said Laura K. Jacks,…
Some recreational activities can cause permanent damage to a child’s hearing. Noise-induced hearing loss could be caused by prolonged or sudden exposure to excessive noises, such as concerts, sporting events, fireworks, loud toys or video games, and excessive volume via earbuds or headphones. Does my child have hearing loss? According to Shelley R. Moats, Au.D.,…
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, it can be overwhelming for the patient and their entire family. Parents likely will have many questions, especially in the beginning, and providers encourage them to be inquisitive during appointments. “Our patients’ families should feel empowered to ask us questions,” said Ashok B. Raj, M.D., pediatric hematologist/oncologist with…
The added benefits of exercise for survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) can include psychological well-being, improved quality of life and lower risk of long-term effects — like broken bones or chronic diseases — from their treatment. Decreased anxiety and help with social integration are also benefits of exercise for ALL survivors, in addition to…