Sometimes you’ll know right away if your child needs quick medical care. Other times, it’s hard to be sure. And if you do, should you go to the ER, call your doctor, or visit an urgent care center? These guidelines can help. When to Call 911 For a serious emergency, call 911. Some situations are …
Parents might worry when a child’s temperature rises, but a fever itself causes no harm and can actually be a good thing — often, it’s the body’s way of fighting infections. What Are the Signs & Symptoms of a Fever? A child who has a fever might be: fussy uncomfortable warm to the touch flushed sweaty What …
When your child feels warm or seems out of sorts, knowing if a fever might be the cause can be helpful. Here’s how to take your child’s temperature, safely and accurately. What Type of Thermometer Should I Use? Digital thermometers give the quickest, most accurate readings, and are the only kind that doctors currently recommend. …
What Is a Stress Fracture? A stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone. What Causes Stress Fractures? Stress fractures usually happen from repeating the same movement over and over (such as when someone trains for a sport). They also can happen from everyday activities in people whose bones are weak due to poor nutrition or …
What Is a Splint? A splint is a support device made of hard material that keeps an injured area from moving. What Are Splints Made of? A splint can be plastic, metal, plaster, or fiberglass. The material may come pre-made in a particular size or it may be moldable into a custom shape. Splints can …
What Is Physical Therapy? Doctors often recommend physical therapy for kids and teens who have been injured or who have movement problems from an illness, disease, or disability. After an injury, physical therapists (PTs) work to decrease pain, improve movement, and help kids return to daily activities. They teach kids exercises designed to help them regain strength …
What Is Osgood-Schlatter Disease? Osgood-Schlatter disease (OSD) is swelling and irritation of the growth plate at the top of the shinbone. A growth plate is a layer of cartilage near the end of a bone where most of the bone’s growth happens. It is weaker and more at risk for injury than the rest of the bone. OSD goes away when …
What Is Occupational Therapy? Occupational therapy (OT) is a branch of health care that helps people of all ages who have physical, sensory, or cognitive problems. OT can help them regain independence in all areas of their lives. Occupational therapists help with barriers that affect a person’s emotional, social, and physical needs. To do this, …
What Are Migraines? A migraine is a type of headache that recurs (keeps coming back). The pain is often throbbing and can happen on one or both sides of the head. Migraines also cause other symptoms. People with migraines can feel dizzy or sick to their stomachs. They may be sensitive to light, noise, or …
What Is Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common intestinal problem that affects the colon (the large intestine). It can cause cramps, gas, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. It’s sometimes called a “nervous stomach” or “spastic colon.” IBS can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, but it doesn’t cause serious health problems. Doctors can help kids and …
