Doctors & Hospitals
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7 Ways Caregivers Can Ease Stress
Parents and other caregivers juggle a lot. But by learning to relax and recharge, you’ll be better able to handle what comes your way.
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Balancing Schoolwork and Hospital Stays
When your child has a serious or chronic illness, it's hard to think beyond the next treatment. But with some planning, you can help your child balance schoolwork with hospital stays.
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Birth Defects
Some birth defects are minor and cause no problems. Others can be serious and require lifelong treatment.
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Camps for Kids With Special Needs
There are many camp choices for kids with special needs. From highly specialized camps to regular camps that accommodate kids with special needs, options abound.
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Cardiofaciocutaneous (CFC) Syndrome
Cardiofaciocutaneous (CFC) syndrome is a rare genetic condition. It affects the heart, facial features, and skin.
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Caring for a Seriously Ill Child
Taking care of a chronically ill child is one of the most draining and difficult tasks a parent can face. But support groups, social workers, and family friends often can help.
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Caring for Siblings of Kids With Disabilities
Kids love their siblings. Often, those who have a brother or sister with special needs want to help. Here's how to help them feel loved and secure about their place in the family.
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Caring for Your Child With Cerebral Palsy (CP): Age 6–12
If you have a school-age child with cerebral palsy, there's a lot to know. This checklist makes it easy to find out what programs and services may be available to you.
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Caring for Your Child With Cerebral Palsy (CP): Birth to Age 5
If your child has cerebral palsy, there's a lot to know. This checklist makes it easy to find out what programs and services may be available to you.
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Caring for Your Teen With Cerebral Palsy (CP): Age 13 and Up
If your teen has cerebral palsy, there's a lot to know. This checklist makes it easy to determine what programs and services might be needed as your teen nears adulthood.
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Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy (chemo) is treatment with medicines that stop the growth of cancer cells.
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Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complicated disease. It's a physical condition that also can also affect a person emotionally.
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Chronic Kidney Disease: Caring for Your Child
Parents of kids who have a chronic kidney disease often worry about what might happen next and what treatments are likely to be involved. Find answers here.
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Clinical Trials
Deciding to enroll your child in a clinical study will depend on its potential benefits and risks, as well as your child's particular illness. Learn more.
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Congenital Heart Defects
Heart defects happen when there's a problem with a baby's heart development during pregnancy. Most heart defects can be treated during infancy.
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Costello Syndrome
Costello syndrome is a very rare disorder that affects multiple organ systems. It causes causes problems that affect a child's heart, muscles, bones, skin, brain, and spinal cord.
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Diabetes: When to Call the Doctor
Caring for a child with diabetes includes knowing when to get medical help. Learn more about when to call the doctor.
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Does My Child Need an Antibiotic? (Video)
Antibiotics are powerful medicines that can help kids feel better -- but only when they have certain illnesses. Find out if an antibiotic is right for your child.
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Electronic Health Records
Many health institutions digitally store their patients' health information. Learn about electronic health records (EHRs) and how they can improve health care.
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Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is the use of a machine to do the work that the heart and lungs normally do.
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Financial Planning for Kids With Disabilities
These steps can help take the anxiety and worry out of your child's financial future and make sure that your child will be taken care of even after you're gone.
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Finding Respite Care
Finding that perfect person to care for your child can be a challenge. These resources can help.
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Getting Support When Your Child Has Special Health Care Needs
You might have more on your plate than most parents, but it doesn't mean you have to do it all alone. Here's how to ask for help and avoid caregiver burnout.
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Getting Teens Involved in Their Health Care
Involving teens in their health care can help prepare them for managing it on their own as adults.
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If Your Baby Has a Birth Defect
If your child has a birth defect, you don't have to go it alone - many people and resources are available to help you.
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Is My Child Too Sick to Go to School?
It can be hard to know if kids are well enough to go to school or childcare. Here are some guidelines.
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Legius Syndrome
Legius syndrome is a rare genetic condition. Kids who have it have multiple café-au-lait spots on their skin and might be slower to walk, talk, and reach other milestones than most kids.
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Managing Home Health Care
When kids need intensive health care after they're discharged from the hospital, family and caregivers should learn about the devices, equipment, and support they'll need.
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Neurocutaneous Syndromes
Neurocutaneous syndromes are genetic disorders that lead to tumor growth in various parts of the body. Learn how to maximize the quality of life for children with these diseases.
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Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic condition that causes benign tumors in and under the skin, often with bone, hormone, and other problems. Learn more about how it's diagnosed and treated.
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Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy can help improve kids' cognitive, physical, and motor skills and build their self-esteem and sense of accomplishment.
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Palliative Care
Palliative care provides physical, emotional, and spiritual support to sick children and their families.
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Physical Therapy
Doctors often recommend physical therapy for kids who have been injured or have movement problems from an illness, disease, or disability. Learn more about PT.
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Preventing Caregiver Burnout
Caregiver burnout happens when you try to do it all without having access to the help or rest you need. Learn the signs, how to prevent burnout, and get support.
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Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, irradiation, or X-ray therapy, is one of the most common forms of cancer treatment.
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RASopathies
RASopathies are a group of genetic conditions caused by problems in the RAS pathway, which is one way cells in the body communicate.
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Relaxation Techniques for Kids With Serious Illness
Help ease your child's pain and anxiety with these exercises, complete with step-by-step instructions.
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Sanfilippo Syndrome
Sanfilippo syndrome is a rare condition in which the body can't break down certain carbohydrates (sugars) in the blood, leading to serious problems in the brain and nervous system.
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Speech-Language Therapy
Working with a certified speech-language pathologist can help a child with speech or language difficulties.
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Spina Bifida
Spina bifida is a birth defect that involves the incomplete development of the spinal cord or its coverings. It's usually detected before a baby is born and treated right away.
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When Your Baby's in the NICU
Learn what a NICU visit will be like for your little one, what you can do to help, and how to find support for yourself.
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When Your Child's in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
It can be stressful whenever kids are in the hospital — and even more so when they're admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). A basic understanding of the PICU can help you feel better prepared to help your child recover.
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Words to Know: Transplants
Easy-to-understand definitions of some key transplant terms.
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COVID-19: Kids & Medical Care During the Pandemic
Kids should see their doctors for well-child visits and other care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here's what parents should know.
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Health Screening Tests
Health screening tests are routine tests that check for problems before signs show up. When problems are found early, the care is often simpler and may work better.
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Sports Physicals
Just as professional sports stars need medical care to keep them playing their best, so do student athletes. That's why it's important to make sure that kids and teens get a sports physical.
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Well-Child Visit Schedule
These age-specific guides can help you be prepared for and keep track of your well-child visits.
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Well-Child Visit: 1 Month
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by the first month.
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Well-Child Visit: 1 Year (12 Months)
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by the first birthday.
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Well-Child Visit: 1.5 Years (18 Months)
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your toddler might be doing by 18 months.
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Well-Child Visit: 10 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by age 10.
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Well-Child Visit: 11 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your child is 11.
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Well-Child Visit: 12 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your child is 12.
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Well-Child Visit: 13 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your teen is 13.
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Well-Child Visit: 14 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your teen is 14.
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Well-Child Visit: 15 Months
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your toddler might be doing by 15 months.
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Well-Child Visit: 15 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your teen is 15.
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Well-Child Visit: 16 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your teen is 16.
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Well-Child Visit: 17 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your teen is 17.
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Well-Child Visit: 18 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your teen is 18.
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Well-Child Visit: 19 Years
Find out what the well-child visit will involve when your son or daughter is 19.
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Well-Child Visit: 2 Months
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by the second month.
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Well-Child Visit: 2 Years (24 Months)
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the second year.
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Well-Child Visit: 2.5 Years (30 Months)
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your toddler might be doing at this age.
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Well-Child Visit: 20 Years
Find out about medical visits as your teens moves into adulthood.
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Well-Child Visit: 21 Years
Find out about medical visits as your teens moves into adulthood.
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Well-Child Visit: 3 to 5 Days
Find out what this well-child visit will involve a few days after your baby is born.
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Well-Child Visit: 3 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the third year.
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Well-Child Visit: 4 Months
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by the fourth month.
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Well-Child Visit: 4 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the fourth year.
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Well-Child Visit: 5 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the fifth year.
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Well-Child Visit: 6 Months
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by 6 months.
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Well-Child Visit: 6 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the sixth year.
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Well-Child Visit: 7 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the seventh year.
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Well-Child Visit: 8 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the eighth year.
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Well-Child Visit: 9 Months
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your baby might be doing by 9 months old.
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Well-Child Visit: 9 Years
Find out what this well-child visit will involve and what your child might be doing by the ninth year.
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Well-Child Visit: Newborn
Find out what this well-child visit will involve after your baby arrives.
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What Is the Apgar Score?
The Apgar score is the very first test given to a newborn, done right after birth in the delivery or birthing room.
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When Your Child Outgrows Pediatric Care
Help your teen or young adult make the transition from pediatric health care to adult health care. Get tips on finding a new doctor and getting health insurance.
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Balancing Schoolwork and Hospital Stays
When your child has a serious or chronic illness, it's hard to think beyond the next treatment. But with some planning, you can help your child balance schoolwork with hospital stays.
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Biobanks
A biobank is a special lab that stores samples donated by patients. Scientists use them to study what causes a sickness or disease and to find treatments.
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Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy (chemo) is treatment with medicines that stop the growth of cancer cells.
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Choosing a Pediatrician for Your New Baby
Along with considering baby names and buying a crib, choosing the right health care provider should be on your to-do list when you're expecting.
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COVID-19: Kids & Medical Care During the Pandemic
Kids should see their doctors for well-child visits and other care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Here's what parents should know.
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for Teens
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) helps teens learn how to handle intense emotions and improve their relationships.
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Electronic Health Records
Many health institutions digitally store their patients' health information. Learn about electronic health records (EHRs) and how they can improve health care.
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Getting Health Visits in Your Preferred Language
Making sure you and your child’s doctor understand each other is key to a helpful health care visit. If English isn’t your first or preferred language, here's how to do that.
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Getting the Most From a Doctor's Visit
Here are tips on the best ways to communicate with your child's doctor and get the most information during a visit.
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Going to the Emergency Room
Knowing what to expect when you need to take your child to the emergency room can help make it a little less stressful.
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Health Care Providers: Adolescent Medicine Specialists
An adolescent medicine specialist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats physical and emotional health concerns of kids and teens.
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Health Care Providers: Allergists/Immunologists
An allergist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats asthma, allergies, or immune system conditions.
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Health Care Providers: Anesthesiologists
An anesthesiologist is a doctor who oversees the medicine given to patients to prevent pain during medical procedures.
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Health Care Providers: Audiologists
An audiologist is a health care professional who studies and treats hearing and balance problems.
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Health Care Providers: Behavioral Health Specialists
Behavioral health is medical care that helps manage emotions and behaviors. The main health care providers who work in behavioral health are psychologists and psychiatrists.
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Health Care Providers: Cardiologists
A cardiologist is a doctor who a doctor who studies, diagnoses, and treats medical problems that affect the heart and blood vessels.
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Health Care Providers: Cardiothoracic Surgeons
A cardiac (or cardiothoracic) surgeon is a doctor who does surgery to treat problems that affect the heart and chest.
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Health Care Providers: Child Life Specialists
Child Life refers to care that helps kids and their families overcome challenging events and cope with stress during medical experiences, especially kids who are hospitalized.
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Health Care Providers: Dentists
A dentist is a doctor who studies, diagnoses, and treats mouth and teeth conditions, and also helps people maintain good oral care.
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Health Care Providers: Dermatologists
A dermatologist is a doctor who helps people take care of their skin, hair, and nails, and diagnoses and treats problems when they do happen.
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Health Care Providers: Endocrinologists
An endocrinologist is a doctor who studies and treats diseases and conditions that affect growth, development, puberty, and energy levels.
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Health Care Providers: Family Doctors
Family doctors, also called family physicians, care for patients of all ages and genders, from birth to the end of life.
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Health Care Providers: Gastroenterologists
A gastroenterologist is a doctor who studies, diagnoses, and treats diseases and conditions that affect the stomach and intestines.
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Health Care Providers: Geneticists
A geneticist is a doctor who specializes in the study of genetics and family traits.
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Health Care Providers: Hematologists
A hematologist is a doctor who specializes in blood diseases, bleeding disorders, and cancers such as hemophilia, sickle cell disease, leukemia, and lymphoma. They’re trained in hematology and oncology.
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Health Care Providers: Hematologists-Oncologists
A hematologist-oncologist is a doctor who specializes in blood diseases, bleeding disorders, and cancers such as hemophilia, sickle cell disease, leukemia, and lymphoma. They’re trained in hematology and oncology.
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Health Care Providers: Interventional Radiologists
An interventional radiologist is a doctor who’s specially trained to analyze and interpret diagnostic images. They also use special tools to guide minimally invasive surgical procedures.
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Health Care Providers: Midwives
A midwife specializes in female reproductive health care needs such as prenatal care, labor, delivery, postpartum care, and newborn care for low-risk pregnancies.
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Health Care Providers: Neonatologists
A neonatologist is a doctor who cares for newborns who were born prematurely or have complex medical needs.
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Health Care Providers: Nephrologists
A nephrologist is a doctor who cares for people with diseases and conditions that affect the kidneys.
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Health Care Providers: Neurologists
A neurologist is a doctor who studies, diagnoses, and treats diseases and conditions that affect the brain.
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Health Care Providers: Neurosurgeons
A neurosurgeon is a doctor who does procedures to treat and cure diseases and conditions that affect the brain and nervous system.
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Health Care Providers: Nurses
Nurses provide much of the day-to-day care in hospitals, doing vital jobs like giving medicine and educating patients about self-care. Many kinds of nurses provide varying levels of care.
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Health Care Providers: Obstetricians & Gynecologists
Obstetrics & gynecology is the branch of medicine that treats conditions and problems related to female reproductive health.
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Health Care Providers: Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapists (OTs) help patients with injuries, illnesses, or disabilities. They help them develop, regain, and improve skills needed for daily working and living.
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Health Care Providers: Oncologists
An oncologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats different types of cancer.
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Health Care Providers: Ophthalmologists
An ophthalmologist is a doctor who studies, diagnoses, prevents, and treats diseases and conditions that affect the eyes.
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Health Care Providers: Optometrists
An optometrist is a doctor who examines eyes for problems, prescribes contact lenses and glasses and eye exercises, and diagnoses and treats eye diseases. They provide many of the same services as ophthalmologists, but they don't perform surgery.
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Health Care Providers: Orthopedists
An orthopedist, or orthopedic surgeon, studies, diagnoses, and treats conditions that affect muscles, joints, and bones, such as infections, sports injuries, broken bones, and joint problems.
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Health Care Providers: Otolaryngologists
An otolaryngologist, often called an ENT, is a doctor who studies, diagnoses, prevents, and treats diseases and conditions of the ear, nose, and throat.
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Health Care Providers: Pathologists
A pathologist is a doctor who examines and interprets laboratory samples to find the causes of conditions, diseases, and sometimes deaths.
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Health Care Providers: Pediatricians
A pediatrician is a doctor who diagnoses and treats children’s health conditions and concerns, including physical, behavior, developmental, and mental health issues.
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Health Care Providers: Physical Therapists
Physical therapists are movement experts who help people with prescribed exercises, hands-on care, and patient education.
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Health Care Providers: Physician Assistants (PAs)
Physician assistants (PA) work together with doctors to give medical care. They do much of the patient care that doctors do.
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Health Care Providers: Plastic Surgeons
A plastic surgeon is a doctor who does surgery to repair, rebuild, or replace a part of the body to improve how it looks and works. This can involve the skin, musculoskeletal system, craniomaxillofacial (head and face) structures, hand, extremities, breast and trunk, and other areas of the body.
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Health Care Providers: Pulmonologists
A pulmonologist is a doctor who studies, diagnoses, prevents, and treats lung and airway problems. Many are also trained in critical care medicine.
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Health Care Providers: Radiologists
A radiologist is a doctor who views, analyzes, and interprets medical images. They consult with the patient’s primary doctor or specialist doctor about their findings.
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Health Care Providers: Registered Dietitians (RDs)
A registered dietitian works with patients and families to give dietary support, create nutrition plans, talk about healthy lifestyle choices, and manage many conditions.
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Health Care Providers: Rheumatologists
A rheumatologist is a doctor who treats diseases of joints, muscle, bones, and tendons that can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. They also treat autoimmune diseases.
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Health Care Providers: Social Workers
Social workers are mental health providers. They’re trained to evaluate and address each family’s unique emotional and social needs.
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Health Care Providers: Specialist Overviews
There are many different types of health care providers. Check out our overview of who they are and what they do.
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Health Care Providers: Speech Therapists
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) — also called speech therapists — are licensed professionals who diagnose and treat disorders that affect speech and interfere with communication. Speech therapists can work in schools, hospitals, or specialty clinics.
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Health Care Providers: Urologists
A urologist, sometimes called a urologic surgeon, is a doctor who studies, diagnoses, and treats problems that affect the urinary tract, kidneys, and genitourinary system.
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How to Find Affordable Health Care
Your kids could be eligible for health care coverage right now and you might not know it. Here are some options that may be available to your family.
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How to Shop for Health Insurance
The government's healthcare marketplace, or exchange, is the new way to shop for health insurance. But just how do you find the best coverage and sign up? Get answers here.
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Intravenous Line (IV)
An intravenous line (IV) is a soft, flexible tube placed inside a vein, usually in the hand or arm. Doctors use them to give a person medicine or fluids.
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Medical Care and Your 13- to 18-Year-Old
Regular visits help your teen's doctor keep track of changes in physical, mental, and social development. The doctor can also help your teen understand the importance of choosing a healthy lifestyle.
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Medical Care and Your 2- to 3-Year-Old
Regular well-child exams are essential to keeping kids healthy and up-to-date with vaccines against dangerous diseases. Here's what to expect at the doctor's office.
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Medical Care and Your 4- to 5-Year-Old
Regular well-child exams are an important part of keeping kids healthy and up to date on vaccines against serious diseases. Find out what to expect at the doctor's office.
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Medical Care and Your 6- to 12-Year-Old
Regular well-child exams are essential to keep kids healthy and up-to-date with vaccines. Find out what to expect at the doctor's office.
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Preparing Teens With Diabetes for Adult Care
Most teens with diabetes should switch to an adult health care provider when they're between 18 and 21 years old. Here's how parents can help them get ready in the years leading up to the switch.
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Preparing Your Child for Visits to the Doctor
When kids know they're "going to the doctor," they might wonder about the visit. Here's how to prepare them.
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Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, irradiation, or X-ray therapy, is one of the most common forms of cancer treatment.
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School-Based Health Centers
School-based health centers provide a range of services to meet kids' and teens' health care needs. Centers usually are inside a school building or right next door.
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Talking to the Pharmacist
If your child is sick, you'll probably have many questions to ask your doctor. But have you made a list of questions and concerns to share with your pharmacist?
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Telehealth and Your Child
Telehealth is changing health care. Find out how things like video doctor visits can benefit you and your family.
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Viewing Clinical Notes in Your Child’s Electronic Medical Record
If you use a patient portal or smartphone app to access your family’s health care information, you'll see that notes from the health care provider are now available.
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What Is Interventional Radiology (IR)?
Interventional radiology (IR) is a way for doctors to treat problems like vascular anomalies and tumors.
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What to Expect at a Telehealth Visit
Find out how a video visit works and what you need to do to get ready.
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What's a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine?
You might be surprised to learn that not all physicians have the letters MD after their names. Some have the letters DO (doctor of osteopathy).
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What's a Nurse Practitioner?
What are nurse practitioners, and how do they differ from medical doctors?
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What's a Primary Care Physician (PCP)?
PCPs are health care providers that offer routine checkups, vaccines, and non-emergency medical care. Learn more about PCPs and how to choose a great one.
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When and Where to Get Medical Care
Should you head to the ER when your child is hurt or ill? What about an urgent care center? Different problems need different levels of care, and you have many options.
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When Your Child Outgrows Pediatric Care
Help your teen or young adult make the transition from pediatric health care to adult health care. Get tips on finding a new doctor and getting health insurance.
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When Your Child's in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
It can be stressful whenever kids are in the hospital — and even more so when they're admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). A basic understanding of the PICU can help you feel better prepared to help your child recover.
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Where Should I Have My Baby?
Where you choose to give birth is an important decision. Is a hospital or a birth center right for you? Knowing the facts can help you make your decision.
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Your Child's Diabetes Health Care Team
When you have a child with diabetes, you and your family have a lot to learn, but you don't have to go it alone. Your child's diabetes health care team can help.
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Electronic Health Records
Many health institutions digitally store their patients' health information. Learn about electronic health records (EHRs) and how they can improve health care.
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Financial Planning for Kids With Disabilities
These steps can help take the anxiety and worry out of your child's financial future and make sure that your child will be taken care of even after you're gone.
-
How to Find Affordable Health Care
Your kids could be eligible for health care coverage right now and you might not know it. Here are some options that may be available to your family.
-
How to Shop for Health Insurance
The government's healthcare marketplace, or exchange, is the new way to shop for health insurance. But just how do you find the best coverage and sign up? Get answers here.
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Preventing Caregiver Burnout
Caregiver burnout happens when you try to do it all without having access to the help or rest you need. Learn the signs, how to prevent burnout, and get support.
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School-Based Health Centers
School-based health centers provide a range of services to meet kids' and teens' health care needs. Centers usually are inside a school building or right next door.
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What Is a Medical Record?
A medical record is a history of someone’s health. Most hospitals and doctor’s offices use electronic health records.
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When Your Child's in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
It can be stressful whenever kids are in the hospital — and even more so when they're admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). A basic understanding of the PICU can help you feel better prepared to help your child recover.
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Antegrade Continence Enema (ACE)
An antegrade continence enema, or ACE, is a different way to give an enema. Enemas can help someone poop if they become constipated or have another problem moving their bowels.
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Appendectomy
Learn the basics of an appendectomy so you know what to expect if your child has this surgery.
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Blood Transfusions
A blood transfusion is a safe and relatively simple medical procedure that replaces blood lost during surgery or because of an injury or illness.
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Cardiac Catheterization
Cardiac catheterization helps doctors perform diagnostic tests on the heart and even treat some heart conditions.
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Cardiac Stents
Cardiac stents are very small mesh wire tubes that hold blood vessels open so that blood can flow through the vessels normally. Find out about the procedure to place a stent.
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Casts
Casts keep bones and other tissues in place while they heal. Here's what to expect, and how to care for casts.
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Central Lines (Central Venous Catheters)
A central line, or central venous catheter, is much longer than a regular IV. Doctors use them to give medicine, fluids, blood, or nutrition to patients.
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Cesarean Sections (C-Sections)
Many babies are delivered via cesarean sections. Learn why and how C-sections are done.
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Dialysis
Dialysis is a medical treatment that can take over the job of cleaning the blood when the kidneys can't.
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Embolization
Embolization is a procedure in which plugging material or a plugging object is put into a blood vessel to block it. It's used to help treat many conditions.
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Epilepsy Surgery
Epilepsy surgery is an operation done on the brain to reduce or stop seizures.
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External Fixator: Pin Care
External fixators used for limb lengthening have pins that go through the skin and into the bone. It's important to know how to care for the pins at home to prevent infections.
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Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is the use of a machine to do the work that the heart and lungs normally do.
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Gastrostomy Tube (G-Tube)
Some kids have medical problems that prevent them from being able to take adequate nutrition by mouth. A gastrostomy tube (also called a G-tube) delivers nutrition directly to the stomach.
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Getting a Blood Test
Blood tests help doctors check how the body’s organs are working and see if medical treatments are helpful. Here's how they're done.
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Getting an X-Ray
An X-ray is a safe and painless test that uses a small amount of radiation to make an image of bones, organs, and other parts of the body. Here's how they're done.
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Hemodialysis
Hemodialysis is a medical treatment that uses a machine with a special filter to take waste and extra water out of the blood.
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Implanted Ports
An implanted port is a type of central line that goes up to a vein near the heart or just inside the heart. A child can get medicine, fluids, blood, or nutrition through one.
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Inducing Labor
Find out why doctors may induce labor if you're past your due date, how it may be done, and how it may affect you and your baby.
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Intravenous Line (IV)
An intravenous line (IV) is a soft, flexible tube placed inside a vein, usually in the hand or arm. Doctors use them to give a person medicine or fluids.
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Laryngoscopy
Laryngoscopy, a visual exam of the voicebox and airway, can help discover the causes of voice and breathing problems, throat or ear pain, and other bothersome symptoms.
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Limb Lengthening Surgery: External Fixator
Limb lengthening surgery is done when someone has a leg length discrepancy (one leg is shorter than the other). Sometimes this is treated with an external fixator.
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Limb Lengthening Surgery: Internal Lengthening Device
Limb lengthening surgery is done when someone has a leg length discrepancy (one leg is shorter than the other). Sometimes this is treated with an internal lengthening device (a rod with a magnet).
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Liver Transplant
If your child needs a liver transplant, you're probably feeling lots of emotions. Fortunately, most kids who have liver transplants go on to live normal, healthy lives.
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Meatoplasty
The treatment for meatal stenosis is a simple procedure to make the opening of the meatus bigger called a meatoplasty.
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Nasogastric Tube (NG Tube)
An NG tube goes through the nose, down the throat, and into the stomach to deliver formula or medicine.
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Ostomies
For some digestive system problems, surgeons do a procedure called an ostomy that lets waste leave the body through a small opening in the skin of the belly.
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Pectus Excavatum: The Nuss Procedure
The Nuss procedure is a surgery to correct severe pectus excavatum. It’s considered "minimally invasive" because only a few small cuts are needed.
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Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC Line)
A PICC line is like an IV line, but is much longer and can stay in place for longer periods.
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Peritoneal Dialysis
This medical treatment helps people with kidney failure. It can be done at home, often overnight, to take over the kidneys' job of filtering blood.
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Radioembolization (TARE-Y90) for Liver Tumors
Radioembolization is a procedure used to treat some kinds of liver tumors. A radioactive material works on the tumor, not the healthy tissue around it.
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Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)
Retinopathy of prematurity, which can happen in premature babies, causes abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina. Some children will need surgery to prevent vision loss or blindness.
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Rigo Cheneau Brace
A Rigo Cheneau brace is a type of spine brace for scoliosis. Used with physical therapy, it can improve a child’s posture.
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Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a procedure in which medicine is injected into blood vessels or lymph vessels to make them close. It's used to treat vascular malformations.
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Skull Base Surgery
Skull base surgery is done to remove tumors and other growths that appear at the bottom of the skull.
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Spinal Fusion Surgery
A spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that's done to stabilize or straighten the bones in the back. It can help kids and teens with scoliosis.
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Surgeries and Procedures: Gastrostomy Tube (G-Tube)
Some kids have medical problems that prevent them from being able to take adequate nutrition by mouth. A gastrostomy tube (also called a G-tube) is a tube inserted through the abdomen that delivers nutrition directly to the stomach. Read this article to find out more about the gastrostomy procedure.
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Surgeries and Procedures: Retinopathy of Prematurity
Retinopathy of prematurity, which mostly occurs in premature babies, is a disease that causes abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina. Sometimes surgery is needed to prevent vision loss or blindness.
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Tear-Duct Blockage
Blocked tear ducts are a fairly common problem in infants. The earlier they're discovered, the less likely it is that infection will result or surgery will be necessary.
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The Ravitch Procedure
The Ravitch procedure is a surgery to correct severe pectus carinatum and pectus excavatum.
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Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy is a surgically made opening in the front of the neck that goes directly into the airway. This keeps the pathway open so air can go through a tube, into the airway, and to the lungs.
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Tunneled Central Lines
These surgically placed tubes let kids get blood drawn and receive intravenous (IV) medicines and fluids without repeated needle sticks.
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Tympanoplasty
Tympanoplasty is a surgery to repair a hole in the eardrum that doesn’t close on its own. It can improve hearing and prevent water from getting into the middle ear.
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Ureteral Stent
A ureteral stent is a small plastic tube placed inside the ureter to help pee pass from a kidney into the bladder.
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Vagus Nerve Stimulator Therapy for Epilepsy
Vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) therapy is a treatment for epilepsy. It helps prevent or shorten the length of seizures.
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VP Shunts
A VP shunt is a small plastic tube that helps drain extra cerebrospinal fluid from the brain. Most VP shunts are placed to treat hydrocephalus.
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What Is a Cardiac Catheterization? (Video)
A cardiac catheterization is a procedure that cardiologists (heart doctors) do. They put a catheter (a long, thin tube) into a blood vessel, then guide it the heart. Cardiac catheterizations help doctors diagnose and treat many different heart problems.
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What Is Indocyanine Green (ICG)?
Indocyanine green (ICG) is a medical dye doctors use to find and help treat problems in certain parts of the body.
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What Is Interventional Radiology (IR)?
Interventional radiology (IR) is a way for doctors to treat problems like vascular anomalies and tumors.
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What's a Double Barrel Ostomy? (Video)
Watch a short video to learn what a double barrel ostomy is and how it works.
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What's a Laryngoscopy? (Video)
Laryngoscopy is when a doctor uses a special camera to look down the throat to see the voice box (larynx) and vocal cords.
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What's a Loop Ostomy? (Video)
Watch a short video to learn what a loop ostomy is and how it works.
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What's an End Ostomy? (Video)
Watch a short video to learn what an end ostomy is and how it works.
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Words to Know: Transplants
Easy-to-understand definitions of some key transplant terms.
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Arthrocentesis (Joint Aspiration)
Arthrocentesis (joint aspiratio) involves withdrawing (aspirating) a sample of fluid from a joint using a needle and syringe.
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Arthrogram
An arthrogram is a test done to look inside a joint for injuries or other problems.
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Aspiration and Biopsy: Bone Marrow
A bone marrow aspiration and biopsy are performed to examine bone marrow, the spongy liquid part of the bone where blood cells are made.
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Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Test
An auditory brainstem response (ABR) test is a safe and painless test that gives health care providers information about possible hearing loss.
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Basic Blood Chemistry Tests
Doctors order basic blood chemistry tests to assess a wide range of conditions and the function of organs.
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Biobanks
A biobank is a special lab that stores samples donated by patients. Scientists use them to study what causes a sickness or disease and to find treatments.
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Biopsies
Doctors order biopsies to examine tissue or cells when they're concerned about a problem such as an infection, inflammation, or cancer.
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Blood Culture
A blood culture is a test that looks for germs (such as bacteria or fungi) in the blood.
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Blood Test: 17-Hydroxyprogesterone
The 17-hydroxyprogesterone test is mainly used to check for the most common form of the genetic disorder congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) in infants and children.
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Blood Test: Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT, or SGPT)
An alanine aminotransferase (ALT) blood test is often part of an initial screening for liver disease.
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Blood Test: Allergen-Specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE)
This blood test can check for some kinds of allergies.
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Blood Test: Amylase
An amylase test may be done if a child has signs of a problem with the pancreas, such as belly pain, nausea, or vomiting.
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Blood Test: Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST, or SGOT)
An aspartate aminotransferase (AST) blood test is often part of an initial screening for liver problems.
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Blood Test: Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)
A basic metabolic panel (BMP), commonly ordered as part of routine medical exam, is a set of blood tests that gives information about sugar (glucose) and calcium levels, kidney function, and electrolyte and fluid balance.
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Blood Test: Bilirubin
Doctors may order bilirubin blood tests for infants or older kids if they see signs of jaundice.
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Blood Test: C-Peptide
A C-peptide test can help doctors tell the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. It also can help find the cause of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).
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Blood Test: C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
A C-reactive protein (CRP) blood test is used to identify inflammation or infection in the body.
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Blood Test: Complete Blood Count
The complete blood count (CBC) is the most common blood test. It analyzes red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
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Blood Test: Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) blood test helps evaluate kidney and liver function, sugar (glucose) and protein levels in the blood, and electrolyte and fluid balance.
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Blood Test: Dehydroepiandrosterone-Sulfate (DHEA-S)
Doctors may order a DHEA-S test if a child shows signs of sexual development earlier than expected. It can rule out certain diseases of the testes or ovaries, or help diagnose damage or disease of the pituitary gland.
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Blood Test: Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR)
An erythrocyte sedimentation rate test (ESR) detects inflammation that may be caused by infection and some autoimmune diseases.
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Blood Test: Estradiol
Estradiol is the most important form of the hormone estrogen. Doctors may order an estradiol test if puberty seems to be starting earlier or later than expected, or to evaluate menstrual problems.
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Blood Test: Factor IX Activity
Doctors order the factor IX activity test to help diagnose or monitor the treatment of hemophilia B.
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Blood Test: Factor VIII Activity
A factor VIII activity blood test enables doctors to evaluate the functioning of a protein that helps blood to clot.
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Blood Test: Ferritin (Iron)
Doctors may order a ferritin test when they suspect kids have too little or too much iron in their bodies.
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Blood Test: Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) plays an important role in sexual development. An FSH test to measure the level of FSH in the bloodstream may be done if puberty seems to be starting earlier or later than expected.
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Blood Test: Gamma-Glutamyl Transpeptidase (GGT)
A GGT blood test helps doctors look for problems with the liver or bile ducts.
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Blood Test: Glucose
The blood glucose test, which measures the amount of sugar in the blood, may be done as part of a routine physical or to help diagnose diabetes.
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Blood Test: Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells. A hemoglobin test can be done as part of a routine checkup to screen for problems and or because a child isn't feeling well.
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Blood Test: Hemoglobin A1c
Doctors use a hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) test to determine if your child's diabetes management plan needs to be adjusted.
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Blood Test: Hemoglobin Electrophoresis
A hemoglobin electrophoresis can help diagnose diseases involving abnormal hemoglobin production, and often is performed as part of newborn screening tests.
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Blood Test: Hepatic (Liver) Function Panel
A hepatic function panel is a blood test that helps doctors check for liver injury, infection, or disease. It also can check for side effects in the liver from some medicines.
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Blood Test: IGF Binding Protein-3 (IGFBP-3)
The main reason doctors order the IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP3) test is to see if a person is producing a normal amount of human growth hormone.
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Blood Test: Immunoglobulin A (IgA)
Checking IgA levels can help doctors diagnose problems with the immune system, intestines, and kidneys. It's also used to check autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and celiac disease.
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Blood Test: Immunoglobulin E (IgE)
The immunoglobulin E (IgE) blood test is often done as part of an initial screen for allergies. High IgE levels also may indicate a parasitic infection.
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Blood Test: Immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM)
Immunoglobulins (antibodies in the blood) can give doctors important information about the immune system, especially relating to infection or autoimmune disease.
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Blood Test: Insulin
This test is often used to evaluate the cause of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or any other conditions related to abnormal insulin production.
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Blood Test: Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)
Lactate dehydrogenase (also called lactic acid dehydrogenase, or LDH) is an enzyme found in almost all body tissues. The LDH test is generally used to screen for tissue damage.
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Blood Test: Lead
In babies and young kids whose brains are still developing, even a small amount of lead can cause learning disabilities and behavioral problems. A lead test can determine the amount of lead in the blood.
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Blood Test: Lipase
A lipase test may be done if a child has signs of a problem with the pancreas, such as belly pain, nausea, or vomiting.
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Blood Test: Lipid Panel
Results from a lipid panel enable your doctor to evaluate the levels of different kinds of fats in the blood.
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Blood Test: Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
A luteinizing hormone (LH) test measures the level of this hormone in the bloodstream. LH plays an important role in sexual development.
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Blood Test: Magnesium
Doctors do this test to assess blood levels of magnesium, which helps the muscles and nerves function, the heart maintain normal rhythm, the bones stay strong, and the body process energy and make proteins.
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Blood Test: Partial Thromboplastin Time (PTT)
A partial thromboplastin time (PTT) test is used to evaluate blood's ability to clot. It may be done as part of an evaluation for a bleeding disorder or to monitor the effects of blood-thinning medicine.
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Blood Test: Phosphorus
Doctors may order a phosphorus blood test to help diagnose or monitor kidney disorders, calcium and bone problems, or other conditions.
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Blood Test: Prolactin
A prolactin test can help diagnose prolactinoma, a usually benign tumor of the pituitary gland, irregular menstrual periods, thyroid or adrenal gland dysfunction, and other problems.
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Blood Test: Prothrombin Time (PT)
Doctors may order a PT test as part of an evaluation for a bleeding disorder or to monitor the effects of blood-thinning medicine.
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Blood Test: Reticulocyte Count
This test measures the rate at which reticulocytes (immature red blood cells) are made in the bone marrow and enter the bloodstream. A reticulocyte count can provide information about a child's anemia.
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Blood Test: Somatomedin C (IGF-1)
A somatomedin C test usually is ordered to check for pituitary gland disorder and problems with growth hormones production.
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Blood Test: T3 Resin Uptake (T3RU)
Doctors may order the T3 resin uptake when a child's symptoms or previous blood tests seem to suggest thyroid dysfunction.
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Blood Test: T3 Total (Triiodothyronine)
The T3 total test is part of an evaluation of thyroid function. It's particularly useful in diagnosing hyperthyroidism, which can cause symptoms such as a fast heart rate, weight loss, trembling and sweating.
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Blood Test: T4 (Thyroxine)
Doctors may order the T4 blood test if a person has symptoms that suggest any kind of thyroid disorder.
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Blood Test: Testosterone
A testosterone blood test may be done if a child seems to be entering puberty earlier or later than expected, or to check for damage or disease of the testes or ovaries, adrenal glands, or pituitary glands.
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Blood Test: Thyroglobulin Antibodies (TgAb)
Doctors do thyroglobulin antibodies tests to help diagnose autoimmune conditions involving the thyroid gland, or when they suspect a thyroid disorder.
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Blood Test: Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies
The thyroid peroxidase antibodies test can help doctors diagnose and monitor autoimmune conditions involving the thyroid gland, including Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves disease.
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Blood Test: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
Doctors may order TSH blood tests to diagnose and monitor treatment of a thyroid disorder or see how the pituitary gland is working.
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Blood Test: Tissue Transglutaminase IgA (tTg-IgA)
The tissue transglutaminase IgA (tTg-IgA) test is usually done to help doctors diagnose celiac disease.
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Blood Test: Uric Acid
Doctors may order this test if they suspect high levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. Some kids with leukemia or other types of cancer can have high levels of uric acid (hyperuricemia).
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Blood Test: Valproic Acid
Doctors may order a blood test for valproic acid, an anticonvulsant drug prescribed mainly to prevent seizures, to see how the liver is processing the medicine.
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Blood Test: von Willebrand Factor (vWF) Activity - Ristocetin Cofactor
A von Willebrand factor (vWF) activity - ristocetin cofactor test lets doctors evaluate the functioning of a protein that helps blood to clot.
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Blood Test: von Willebrand Factor (vWF) Antigen
Doctors order the vWF antigen test to help diagnose or monitor the treatment of von Willebrand disease.
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Collecting a Stool Sample for Testing
Stool tests often require a parent to collect a sample of their child’s poop at home. Here's how to do it.
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COVID-19 Tests: Which One Is Best?
Two kinds of tests can see if someone is infected with COVID-19: molecular tests (such as PCR) and antigen tests. Find out how they differ and which might be best for you or your family.
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COVID-19: Antibody Testing
Antibody testing for COVID-19 involves taking a small blood sample to check for antibodies that the body may have made to fight the virus.
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COVID-19: Getting Tested
As coronavirus spreads in communities, parents might wonder if their family should get tested. Here's how health care providers test for it.
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COVID-19: Viral Testing
People might want to get tested for COVID-19 for different reasons. Here is what viral testing involves.
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CT (CAT) Scan: Abdomen
An abdominal CT scan uses a special X-ray machine to take pictures of the liver, spleen, kidneys, bladder, stomach, intestines, pancreas, and adrenal glands, blood vessels, and lymph nodes.
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CT (CAT) Scan: Chest
A chest CT scan uses a special X-ray machine to take pictures of a patient's lungs, heart, blood vessels, airway passages, ribs, and lymph nodes.
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CT (CAT) Scan: Head
A CT scan of the head uses a special X-ray machine to take pictures of the brain, skull, and sinuses, as well as blood vessels in the head.
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CT (CAT) Scan: Neck
A neck CT scan uses a special X-ray machine to make images of the soft tissues and organs of the neck, including the muscles, throat, tonsils, adenoids, airways, thyroid, and other glands.
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CT (CAT) Scans
A CT scan, also called a CAT scan, is a type of imaging test. It uses computers and a rotating X-ray machine to take cross-sectional pictures of the body.
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Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Chloride Sweat Test
Is your child scheduled to have a sweat test? Find out how this test is performed and how it's used to diagnose cystic fibrosis.
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Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Respiratory Screen: Sputum
Kids with cystic fibrosis (CF) often get lung and airway infections. A sputum CF respiratory screen or culture helps doctors detect, identify, and treat infection-causing bacteria or fungi.
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ECG (Electrocardiogram)
Is your child scheduled to have an ECG? Find out how this test is performed and when you can expect the results.
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Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram (also called an echo or cardiac ultrasound) uses sound waves to create pictures of the heart. It shows the structure of the heart and its parts and how well they’re working.
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EEG (Electroencephalogram)
Is your child scheduled to have an EEG? Find out how this test is done and why.
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EMG (Electromyogram)
Is your child scheduled to have an EMG? Find out how this test is performed and when you can expect the results.
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Fetal Echocardiogram
A fetal echocardiogram (also called a fetal echo) uses sound waves to create pictures of an unborn baby's heart.
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Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (Fetal MRI)
Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (also called a fetal MRI) uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed pictures of an unborn baby.
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Genetic Counseling
Genetic counseling is a way for people to understand how genetic illnesses can affect them and their family.
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Genetic Testing
Advances in genetic testing help doctors diagnose and treat certain illnesses. The type of test done depends on which condition a doctor checks for.
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Getting a Blood Test
Blood tests help doctors check how the body’s organs are working and see if medical treatments are helpful. Here's how they're done.
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Getting a CT (CAT) Scan
CT scans give doctors more detailed images than X-rays can provide. Here's what it's like to get one of these tests.
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Getting a Urine Test
Testing a urine sample can help doctors find out what's going on when someone has an infection or other problem in kidneys, bladder, or other parts of the urinary tract. Here's how urine tests are done.
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Getting an ECG (EKG or Electroencephalogram) (Video)
An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) measures the heart's electrical activity. This can help doctors tell how the heart is working and identify any problems.
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Getting an MRI
An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a safe and painless test that uses magnets and radio waves to make detailed pictures of the body's organs, muscles, soft tissues, and structures. Here's what to expect.
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Getting an Ultrasound
An ultrasound scan is a medical test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create live images from the inside the body. Here's what to know if your child is getting this test.
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Health Screening Tests
Health screening tests are routine tests that check for problems before signs show up. When problems are found early, the care is often simpler and may work better.
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Hearing Tests
Hearing problems can be overcome if they're caught early, so it's important to get your child's hearing screened early and checked regularly.
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Nasopharyngoscopy
A nasopharyngoscopy is an exam doctors do to view the back of the throat.
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Newborn Screening Tests
Newborn screening tests look for health conditions that aren't apparent at birth. Find out which tests are done.
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PET/MRI Scan
A PET/MRI scan is an imaging test that combines PET and MRI in one session. It creates very detailed pictures of the inside of the body.
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Prenatal Test: Amniocentesis
In amniocentesis, doctors take a sample of the amniotic fluid that surrounds a baby to check for signs of problems such as chromosomal disorders, genetic problems, and neural tube defects
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Prenatal Test: Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)
A chorionic villus sampling (CVS) checks cells from the placenta for chromosomal abnormalities. Most women whose pregnancies are not high-risk don't need this test.
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Prenatal Test: Contraction Stress Test
A contraction stress test measures the fetal heart rate to ensure that a baby can handle contractions during labor.
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Prenatal Test: First Trimester Screening
The first trimester screening (or first trimester screen) includes a blood test and an ultrasound exam. It's done to see if a fetus is at risk for a chromosomal abnormality or birth defect.
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Prenatal Test: Glucose Screening
Glucose screenings check for gestational diabetes, a short-term form of diabetes that some women develop during pregnancy.
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Prenatal Test: Multiple Marker Test
The multiple marker test is a blood test done to screen for neural tube defects and chromosomal disorders.
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Prenatal Test: Nonstress Test
This test checks to see if the baby responds normally to stimulation and is getting enough oxygen. It's done to check on the health of the fetus in a high-risk pregnancy or when the due date has passed.
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Prenatal Test: Percutaneous Umbilical Blood Sampling (PUBS)
This quick test examines fetal blood directly from the umbilical cord. It's used to detect disorders in the fetus.
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Prenatal Test: Ultrasound
A prenatal ultrasound is a safe and painless test that shows a baby's shape and position. It can be done in the first, second, or third trimester of pregnancy.
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Prenatal Tests: FAQs
Every parent-to-be hopes for a healthy baby, but it can be hard not to worry. Find out what tests can keep you informed of your health — and your baby's — throughout pregnancy.
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Prenatal Tests: First Trimester
Find out what tests may be offered to you during the first trimester of pregnancy.
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Prenatal Tests: Second Trimester
Find out what tests may be offered to you during weeks 13 through 26 of pregnancy.
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Prenatal Tests: Third Trimester
Find out what tests may be offered to you during weeks 27 through 40 of pregnancy.
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Pulse Oximetry (Pulse Ox)
Pulse oximetry, a simple test that measures the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream, may give the first clue that there is a heart or lung problem.
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Sleep Study (Polysomnogram)
A sleep study (or polysomnogram) helps doctors diagnose sleep problems. It is an overnight test that can record a variety of body functions while a child sleeps.
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Spinal Cord Injuries
A spinal cord injury is when the spinal cord gets cut, bruised, stretched, or poked. It can change the way the body moves, feels, and functions.
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Spinal Tap (Lumbar Puncture)
Find out how and why doctors perform lumbar punctures (spinal taps).
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Spirometry
Spirometry measures how much and how quickly someone breathes in and out. It can help diagnose and monitor diseases that make it hard to breathe.
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Stool Test: Bacteria Culture
A stool culture helps doctors see if there's a bacterial infection in the intestines.
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Stool Test: C. Difficile Toxin
Doctors may order a C. difficile toxin stool test if a child has taken antibiotics in the past month or so and has had diarrhea for several days.
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Stool Test: Fecal Blood
The fecal occult blood test checks for blood in the stool that can’t be seen by the naked eye.
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Stool Test: Giardia
This test may be done if a child has watery diarrhea, belly pain, lots of intestinal gas, appetite loss, and nausea or vomiting.
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Stool Test: H. Pylori Antigen
Doctors may order an H. pylori antigen stool test if a child has symptoms of a peptic ulcer, such as indigestion, belly pain, a full or bloated feeling, nausea, frequent belching, or vomiting.
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Stool Test: Ova and Parasites (O&P)
This exam may be done if your child has diarrhea for an extended period, blood or mucus in the stool, abdominal pain, nausea, headaches, or fever.
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Stool Tests
Doctors may order a stool collection test to check for blood, bacteria, ova, or parasites. Find out how these tests are done and what to expect.
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Strep Test: Rapid
A rapid strep test is done to help quickly determine whether a sore throat is caused by a strep infection vs. other germs (usually viruses) that don't require antibiotic treatment.
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Strep Test: Throat Culture
Is your child having a strep test or a throat culture? Find out how these swab tests are done.
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Surgeries and Procedures: Laryngoscopy
Laryngoscopy, a visual examination below the back of the throat, can help discover the causes of voice and breathing problems, pain in the throat or ear, difficulty in swallowing, narrowing of the throat, blockages in the airway, and vocal cord problems.
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Tests for Food Allergies
Doctors often use a combination of skin tests and blood tests to test for food allergies. Learn about what to expect if your child gets tested.
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The Schroth Method of Physical Therapy
The Schroth Method is a type of physical therapy. Its exercises help people with scoliosis or kyphosis have better posture.
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Types of Blood Tests
Blood tests help doctors check how the body’s organs — such as the kidneys, liver, and thyroid, and heart — are working, and see if medical treatments are helpful. Here are some that kids might get.
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Ultrasound: Abdomen
Doctors order abdominal ultrasounds when they're concerned about symptoms such as belly pain, repeated vomiting, abnormal liver or kidney function tests, or a swollen belly.
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Ultrasound: Bladder
Doctors order bladder ultrasounds when there's a concern about bladder problems, such as difficulty urinating or daytime wetting.
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Ultrasound: Head
Doctors order head ultrasounds when there's a concern about neurological problems in an infant.
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Ultrasound: Infant Hip
Doctors order a hip ultrasound when they suspect a problem called developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH).
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Ultrasound: Pelvis
A pelvic ultrasound can detect tumors or cysts and help diagnose pelvic pain, some urinary problems, or abnormal menstrual bleeding.
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Ultrasound: Renal (Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder)
A renal ultrasound makes images of your child's kidneys, ureters, and bladder. Doctors may order this test if they suspect kidney damage, cysts, tumors, kidney stones, or complications from urinary tract infections.
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Ultrasound: Scrotum
Doctors order a scrotal ultrasound when they're concerned about symptoms such as scrotal pain or swelling.
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Ultrasound: Transcranial Doppler
A transcranial Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves to evaluate blood flow (blood circulation) in and around the brain. Doctors order this test to check blood vessels when a problem is affecting blood flow to the brain.
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Ultrasounds
An ultrasound scan is a medical test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create live images from the inside the body. Here are some types of ultrasounds often done.
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Urine Test: 24-Hour Analysis for Kidney Stones
This test can show if certain substances are found at high concentrations in the urine, and might be causing kidney stones.
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Urine Test: Automated Dipstick Urinalysis
Automated dipstick urinalysis results may point to a urinary tract infection (UTI) or injury, kidney disease, or diabetes.
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Urine Test: Calcium
A urine calcium test can help monitor or determine the cause of kidney stones and other kidney diseases, or detect overactivity or underactivity in the parathyroid glands.
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Urine Test: Creatinine
Low levels of creatinine in the urine may point to a kidney disease, certain muscular and neuromuscular disorders, or an obstruction of the urinary tract.
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Urine Test: Dipstick
A urine dipstick test is often done as part of an overall urinalysis. The results of this test can help doctors diagnose a urinary tract infection (UTI), kidney disease, diabetes, or a urinary tract injury.
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Urine Test: Microalbumin-to-Creatinine Ratio
The microalbumin-to-creatinine ratio test is most commonly used to screen for kidney problems in teens with diabetes. It may also be used to monitor kidney function in kids and teens who have a kidney disease.
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Urine Test: Microscopic Urinalysis
A microscopic urinalysis can help detect a urinary tract infection (UTI), kidney problems, diabetes, or a urinary tract injury.
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Urine Test: Protein
The urine protein test is most commonly used to screen for kidney disease and also can help monitor kidney function.
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Urine Test: Routine Culture
A urine culture is used to diagnose a urinary tract infection (UTI) and find out what kinds of germs are causing it.
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Urine Tests
Is your child having a urine culture or urinalysis performed? Find out why urine tests are done and what to expect when a doctor orders one.
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Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG)
A VCUG can help evaluate the bladder's size and shape, and look for problems, such as a blockage. It can also show whether pee is moving in the right direction.
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What Is Gene Therapy?
Gene therapy carries the promise of cures for many diseases and for types of medical treatment most of us would not have thought possible.
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What Is Indocyanine Green (ICG)?
Indocyanine green (ICG) is a medical dye doctors use to find and help treat problems in certain parts of the body.
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What Is Informed Consent?
Informed consent is a legal term that means a person is aware of the facts of a situation (such as a surgical procedure) before agreeing to it.
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What Is the Apgar Score?
The Apgar score is the very first test given to a newborn, done right after birth in the delivery or birthing room.
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What's a Nasopharyngoscopy? (Video)
A nasopharyngoscopy is a quick procedure that uses a special camera to help a doctor look at the back of the throat.
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Wound Drainage Culture
Doctors order wound drainage cultures when they suspect wounds are infected.
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X-Ray Exam: Abdomen
An abdominal X-ray can help find the cause of problems such as pain, kidney stones, intestinal blockage, a hole in the intestine, or an abdominal mass such as a tumor.
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X-Ray Exam: Ankle
An ankle X-ray can help find the cause of symptoms such as pain, tenderness, and swelling, or deformity of the ankle joint. It can also detect broken bones or a dislocated joint.
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X-Ray Exam: Bone Age Study
A bone age study can help evaluate how a child's skeleton is maturing, which can help doctors diagnose conditions that delay or accelerate growth.
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X-Ray Exam: Cervical Spine
This X-ray can, among other things, help find the cause of neck, shoulder, upper back, or arm pain. It's commonly done after someone has been in an automobile or other accident.
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X-Ray Exam: Chest
A chest X-ray is a safe and painless test that uses a small amount of radiation to take a picture of a person's chest, including the heart, lungs, diaphragm, lymph nodes, upper spine, ribs, collarbone, and breastbone.
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X-Ray Exam: Elbow
An elbow X-ray can help find the cause of symptoms such as pain, tenderness, swelling, or a deformity. It can also help to detect broken bones or a dislocated joint.
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X-Ray Exam: Finger
Doctors may order a finger X-ray to find the cause of symptoms such as pain, tenderness, or swelling, or to detect broken bones or dislocated joints.
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X-Ray Exam: Foot
A foot X-ray can help doctors find the cause pain, tenderness, swelling, or deformities. It also can detect broken bones or dislocated joints.
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X-Ray Exam: Forearm
A forearm X-ray can help doctors find the causes of pain, tenderness, swelling, or deformity. It can detect broken bones, and after a broken bone has been set, see if it has healed properly.
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X-Ray Exam: Hand
A hand X-ray can help doctors find the cause of pain, tenderness, swelling, and deformity. It also can detect broken bones or dislocated joints.
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X-Ray Exam: Hip
A hip X-ray can help find the cause of symptoms such as limping, pain, tenderness, swelling, or deformity in the hip area. It can detect broken bones or a dislocated joint.
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X-Ray Exam: Knee
A knee X-ray can help find the causes of pain, tenderness, swelling, or deformity of the knee, and detect broken bones or a dislocated joint.
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X-Ray Exam: Leg Length
Some kids may have significant differences in the length of their legs, a condition known as leg length discrepancy. This X-ray exam can help doctors see the exact difference in leg length so they can decide on a treatment.
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X-Ray Exam: Lower Leg (Tibia and Fibula)
An X-ray of the tibia and fibula can help find the cause of pain, tenderness, swelling, or deformity of the lower leg. It can detect broken bones, and after a broken bone has been set, help see if it has healed well.
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X-Ray Exam: Neck
A neck X-ray can help doctors diagnose many conditions, including stridor, croup, hoarseness due to swelling in or near the airways, and problems with tonsils and adenoids.
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X-Ray Exam: Pelvis
A pelvis X-ray can help find the cause pain, swelling, or deformity in the pelvic, hip, or upper leg regions, and can detect broken bones.
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X-Ray Exam: Scoliosis
Kids with scoliosis have a spine that curves, like an S or a C. If scoliosis is suspected, a doctor may order X-rays to measure the curvature of the spine.
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X-Ray Exam: Upper Arm (Humerus)
An upper arm X-ray can help find the cause of symptoms such as pain, tenderness, swelling, or deformity of the upper arm. It can detect a broken bone, and after the bone has been set, show if it has healed well.
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X-Ray Exam: Upper Gastrointestinal Tract (Upper GI)
An upper GI X-ray can help find the cause of swallowing problems, unexplained vomiting, abdominal discomfort, severe indigestion, ulcers, reflux, hiatal hernia, or blockages.
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X-Ray Exam: Upper Leg (Femur)
A femur X-ray can help find the cause of symptoms such as pain, limp, tenderness, swelling, or deformity of the upper leg. It can detect a broken bone, and after a broken bone has been set, it can help determine whether the bone is in alignment.
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X-Ray Exam: Wrist
A wrist X-ray is a safe and painless test that can help find the cause of pain, tenderness, swelling, or show deformities of the wrist joint. It can also detect broken bones or dislocated joints.
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X-Ray Exams
An X-ray is a safe and painless test that uses a small amount of radiation to make an image of bones, organs, and other parts of the body.
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Your Daughter's First Gynecology Visit
The idea of going to the gynecologist may make your daughter feel nervous. Here's how to make her feel more comfortable about a well-woman visit.
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Acupuncture
Acupuncture is the practice of putting tiny needles into specific spots of the body for medical therapy. Scientific evidence shows that it works for some kinds of medical conditions by stimulating the body to release natural pain killers and other chemicals.
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ADHD Medicines
Medicine doesn’t cure ADHD. But it does help boost a child's ability to pay attention, slow down, and have more self-control. This article for parents has details on how ADHD medicines help.
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Allergy Shots
Many kids battle allergies year-round, and some can't control their symptoms with medications. For them, allergy shots (or allergen immunotherapy) can help.
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Anesthesia
Knowing the basics of anesthesia may help answer your questions and ease some concerns — both yours and your child's.
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Anesthesia: What to Expect
Here's a quick look at what may happen before, during, and after your child gets anesthesia.
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Antibiotics
Antibiotics are medicines that treat infections and other problems caused by bacteria. Here are the basics on what they can help with.
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Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy (chemo) is treatment with medicines that stop the growth of cancer cells.
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Common Questions About Vaccines
Vaccines protect kids from potentially deadly diseases. Learn about what they are, how they work, and what they do.
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Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Complementary and alternative medicine are types of medicine and healing that differ from conventional medicine. They include things like mind–body therapies, nutritional therapies, body-based therapies, and whole medicine systems.
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Does My Child Need an Antibiotic? (Video)
Antibiotics are powerful medicines that can help kids feel better -- but only when they have certain illnesses. Find out if an antibiotic is right for your child.
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Epidurals
Epidurals can make giving birth more calm, controlled, and comfortable. Find out more.
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Giving Opioid Prescription Pain Medicine: What Parents Need to Know
If your child’s health care provider prescribed a prescription pain medicine that contains an opioid, you probably have many questions about how to use it safely. Get answers here.
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Glucagon and Diabetes
Sometimes, if someone with diabetes has very low blood sugar, they need a dose of glucagon to get their blood sugar back to a healthy range.
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Helping Kids Take Medicine
Try these tips to get kids to take "yucky" medicines.
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How Can I Help My Child Use a Nebulizer?
Nebulizers are often used with young children because they require little effort on the child's part. But kids do need to stay in one place and cooperate. If you're having trouble giving treatments, this article is for you!
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How to Safely Give Acetaminophen
What kind? How much? How often? Find out how to give this pain and fever medicine.
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How to Safely Give Ibuprofen
What kind? How much? How often? Find out how to give this pain medicine.
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How to Safely Store and Dispose of Medicines
Part of using medicines safely is knowing how to store them and how to get rid of them after they expire or are no longer needed.
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Hydroxyurea for People With Sickle Cell Disease
Hydroxyurea is a medicine that can help kids and teens who have sickle cell disease. Find out how it works.
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Insulin Injections
Before giving an insulin injection, know the basics so you can set up and do it safely and with confidence.
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Medicines for Diabetes
Whether your child is taking insulin or pills (or both) to control diabetes, it's important to learn how diabetes medicines work.
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Medicines: Using Them Safely
Giving kids medicine safely can be complicated. Here's how you can help treat your child's illness while you prevent dangerous reactions.
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MIBG Treatment for Neuroblastoma
MIBG is a molecule that doctors combine with low-dose radioactive iodine to look for neuroblastoma. Given with higher-dose radioactive iodine, it can treat this cancer.
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Penicillin Allergy
Some people have allergic reactions to penicillin or other antibiotics in the penicillin family. Someone who is allergic to penicillin must avoid all antibiotics in the penicillin family.
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Pharmacogenetics: How Genetic Testing Can Guide Medicine Decisions
Pharmacogenetics, also called pharmacogenomics, is the study of how our genes affect our response to some, but not all, medicines.
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Precision Medicine
Precision medicine is a new way to treat and prevent illnesses. It uses the differences in a person's genes, environment, and lifestyle to customize care.
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PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis)
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is when someone takes medicines every day to lower his or her chances of getting HIV.
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Reye Syndrome
Reye syndrome is an extremely rare but serious illness. Cases have dropped greatly since the finding of a link between the illness and aspirin use in kids and teens.
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Taking Insulin for Diabetes
Some people with diabetes need to take insulin to help keep their blood sugars in a healthy range.
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Talking to the Pharmacist
If your child is sick, you'll probably have many questions to ask your doctor. But have you made a list of questions and concerns to share with your pharmacist?
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Teaching Your Child How to Swallow Pills
Swallowing a pill is something that many of us take for granted. But just like any skill, learning to swallow a pill takes practice.
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The Danger of Antibiotic Overuse
Taking antibiotics too often or for the wrong reason has led to a dangerous rise in bacteria that no longer respond to medicine. Find out what you can do to prevent antibiotic overuse.
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Treating Appendicitis: Comparing Surgery With Antibiotic Treatment
For some kids, treating appendicitis can mean surgery or antibiotics. Find out about the differences.
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Vaccines & Antibiotics: A Safe Combo?
For most kids, taking antibiotics for a mild illness shouldn't keep them from getting their vaccines on schedule.
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Weight Loss Medicines
Doctors may recommend weight loss medicines for some kids and teens who can't lose weight through diet and exercise. Learn more.
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What Are Nebulizers and Inhalers?
Find out how these asthma tools help kids take their medicines.
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What Is an Insulin Pump?
An insulin pump is a wearable device that some people with diabetes use to get insulin, instead of getting it from an injection.
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What Should I Do if I Can’t Find Cold & Flu Medicines for My Child?
Many stores and pharmacies are struggling to keep children’s cold and flu medicines in stock. Here are some ways parents can handle the current shortage.
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22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome (DiGeorge Syndrome)
22q11.2 deletion syndrome (also called DiGeorge Syndrome) is a genetic condition that can cause a variety of physical and behavioral problems.
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Adenoids and Adenoidectomy
Adenoids trap germs, so sometimes they swell while fighting an infection. If they get infected, tonsils and adenoids might be removed in a surgery at the same time.
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Anotia
Anotia is when a baby’s ear doesn’t form normally, so the baby is born with the outer part of their ear missing.
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Antegrade Continence Enema (ACE)
An antegrade continence enema, or ACE, is a different way to give an enema. Enemas can help someone poop if they become constipated or have another problem moving their bowels.
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Astrocytomas
An astrocytoma is a kind of tumor that forms in the brain or spinal cord. Learn about the signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and care team members.
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Atrioventricular Canal Defect
An atrioventricular canal defect (AV canal) is a heart problem in which the center of a baby's heart does not form normally before birth.
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Aural Atresia
Aural atresia is a condition that happens before birth in which a baby’s ear canal doesn’t form. It causes hearing loss, but treatments can help most children hear better.
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Basilar Invagination
Basilar invagination is when the top of the spine pushes up into the base of the skull. It causes pinching and pressing on the brain stem.
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Circumcision
You have a decision to make before you take your newborn son home: whether to circumcise him. Before deciding, talk to your doctor and consider the issues.
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Cleft Lip
A cleft lip is when a baby's lip doesn't form properly during pregnancy. Most kids can have surgery to repair one early in life.
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Cleft Palate
A cleft palate is when a baby is born with a cleft (gap) in the roof of the mouth. Most kids can have surgery to repair them early in life.
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Cleft Palate With Cleft Lip
A cleft palate with a cleft lip is when a baby's lip and palate (roof of mouth) don't form properly during pregnancy. Most kids with cleft lip and palate are treated successfully with no lasting problems.
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Cochlear Implants
Cochlear implants can help many kids with severe hearing loss. Find out how they work and who can get them.
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Congestive Heart Failure
Heart failure is when the heart can’t pump blood the way it should. Congestive heart failure (CHF) is when blood backs up in the heart.
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Ear Tube Surgery
Many kids get middle ear infections (otitis media). Doctors may suggest ear tube surgery for those with multiple infections or a hearing loss or speech delay.
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Ependymomas
An ependymoma is a kind of tumor that forms in the brain or spinal cord. Learn about the signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and care team members.
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Epigastric Hernias
An epigastric hernia is when a little piece of fat from inside the belly pushes through the abdominal muscles between the belly button and the chest. Many are small, cause no symptoms, and don't need treatment.
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Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) in Kids and Teens
When symptoms of heartburn or acid indigestion happen a lot, it could be gastroesophageal reflux (GER). And it can be a problem for kids.
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Halo-Gravity Traction
Halo-gravity traction is a way to pull the head and spine upward. Doctors use it to treat curvature of the spine and to prepare kids for spinal fusion surgery.
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Heart Transplant
If your child needs a heart transplant, you're probably feeling lots of emotions. Fortunately, many kids who undergo heart transplants go on to live normal, healthy lives.
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Hernias
Hernias are fairly common in kids, and hernia repair is one of the most common pediatric surgeries.
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Inguinal Hernias
An inguinal hernia happens when part of the intestines pushes through an opening in the lower part of the abdomen. Doctors fix these hernias with surgery.
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Intussusception
Intussusception is the most common cause of bowel blockages in very young children. Quick treatment can help them recover without lasting problems.
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Levo-Transposition of the Great Arteries
Levo-transposition of the great arteries (L-TGA) is when the positions of the heart's ventricles are reversed. Some people with the condition never need treatment. Others are treated with medicines and surgery.
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Microtia
Microtia is when the outside part of the ear smaller than normal and, sometimes, misshapen. Children with microtia usually have normal hearing. If needed, treatments can reshape the ear.
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Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery is a type of procedure done with smaller incisions (cuts).
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Myocarditis
The muscle that makes up the heart is called the myocardium. Myocarditis is when this muscle gets inflamed (swollen).
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Omphalocele
A baby born with an omphalocele has an opening where the umbilical cord goes into the belly. Some openings close on their own, but many need treatment, including surgery.
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Orofacial Clefts
A cleft is when tissues of the mouth or lip don't form properly when a baby is developing in the womb. The good news is that orofacial clefts are treatable.
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Short Bowel Syndrome
Short bowel syndrome happens when the small intestine is too short to fully absorb nutrients as it should. Kids with the condition often need to get nutrition through a special IV into a vein.
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Sinonasal Tumors
A sinonasal tumor is a growth in the nose, the space behind the nose, or in the sinuses. The tumors can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer).
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Splenic Sequestration
Splenic sequestration is when too many blood cells get stuck in the spleen. This medical emergency can happen to people, usually kids, who have sickle cell disease.
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Stem Cell Transplants
Stem cells help rebuild a weakened immune system. Stem cell transplants are effective treatments for a wide range of diseases, including cancer.
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Submucous Cleft Palate
In a submucous cleft palate, the muscles of the palate don't form properly, but the tissue that lines the roof of the mouth does. This makes these clefts harder to see.
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Surgery for Tear Duct Blockage
Blocked tear ducts are a fairly common problem in infants. Sometimes surgery is done to treat them.
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The Lymphatic System & Lymphatic Conditions
The body's lymphatic system keeps fluid levels in balance and defends against infections. But problems can happen. Learn about lymphatic conditions and how they're treated.
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Tonsillectomy
A tonsillectomy is surgery to remove the tonsils. It's one of the most common surgeries kids and teens get. Find out more.
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Treating Indirect Inguinal Hernia (Video)
An inguinal hernia happens when part of the intestines slips into the groin (where the belly meets the upper leg) instead of staying in the belly as it should. Doctors fix inguinal (IN-gwuh-nul) hernias with surgery.
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Umbilical Hernias
An umbilical hernia shows up as a bump under the belly button. If a hernia doesn't go away by age 4 or 5 or causes problems, doctors may recommend surgery.
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Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism)
Shortly before birth, a boy's testicles usually descend into the scrotum. When a testicle doesn't make the move, this is called cryptorchidism, or undescended testicles.
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Ventricular Assist Device
A ventricular assist device is a mechanical pump that takes over for the heart and pumps blood. This can give a weak or injured heart time to heal or support someone as they wait for a heart transplant.
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Booster Shots
The immune protection from a vaccine can fade over time. Booster shots and additional doses can help. Here's how.
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Can Kids Get a COVID-19 Vaccine, Flu Vaccine, and RSV Shot at the Same Time?
It's safe for kids to get a COVID-19 vaccine along with any other routine vaccine, including the flu vaccine and RSC shot.
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COVID-19 Vaccines for Children Ages 6 Months to 5 Years
Children 6 months old to 5 years old now can get vaccinated against COVID-19. Here's what parents should know.
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COVID-19: Questions & Answers About Vaccines
Here are answers to some questions many parents have about COVID-19 vaccines.
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COVID-19: Understanding COVID-19 Vaccines
Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is the best way to prevent the spread of the virus and protect families from serious illness. Watch this video to learn about how the vaccines work.
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Do Kids Need Vaccines Before Traveling?
If you plan to travel abroad or internationally it's possible that your kids — and you — will need to get certain vaccines.
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How Can I Comfort My Baby During Shots?
Try these things to make the shots less painful and stressful for your baby.
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How Do I Know Which Vaccines My Kids Need?
Vaccines are given on a schedule. Kids get each vaccine when they're at highest risk for getting sick from that disease.
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How Many Doses of Flu Vaccine Does My Child Need?
Knowing the doctor-recommended flu vaccination schedule can be confusing. Use this tool to help you understand how many doses your child needs.
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How Vaccines Help (Video)
Vaccines help keep kids healthy, but many parents still have questions about them. Get answers here.
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Vaccine Schedule
Which vaccines does your child need and when? Use this schedule as a handy reference.
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Vaccines & Antibiotics: A Safe Combo?
For most kids, taking antibiotics for a mild illness shouldn't keep them from getting their vaccines on schedule.
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Vaccines and Cochlear Implants
Children with cochlear implants have a higher risk than other kids of getting some types of bacterial meningitis. Vaccines can help protect them.
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Your Child's Vaccines
Vaccines protect kids from many dangerous diseases. Find out what vaccines your child needs to grow up healthy.
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Your Child's Vaccines: Chickenpox Vaccine
Find out when and why your child needs to get this vaccine.
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Your Child's Vaccines: Diphtheria, Tetanus & Pertussis Vaccine (DTaP, Tdap)
Find out when and why your child needs to get this vaccine.
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Your Child's Vaccines: Hepatitis A Vaccine (HepA)
Find out when and why your child needs to get this vaccine.
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Your Child's Vaccines: Hepatitis B Vaccine (HepB)
Find out when and why your child needs this vaccine.
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Your Child's Vaccines: Hib Vaccine
Find out when and why your child needs to get this vaccine.
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Your Child's Vaccines: Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine
Find out when and why your child needs to get this vaccine.
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Your Child's Vaccines: Influenza (Flu) Vaccine
Find out when and why kids need to get the flu vaccine.
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Your Child's Vaccines: Measles, Mumps & Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
Find out when and why your child needs to get this vaccine.
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Your Child's Vaccines: Meningococcal Vaccines
Find out when and why your child needs to get this vaccine.
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Your Child's Vaccines: Pneumococcal Vaccines (PCV, PPSV)
Find out when and why your child needs to get these vaccines.
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Your Child's Vaccines: Polio Vaccines (IPV, OPV)
Find out when and why your child needs to get this vaccine.
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Your Child's Vaccines: Rotavirus Vaccine (RV)
Find out when and why your child needs to get this vaccine.
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Anesthesia
Knowing the basics of anesthesia may help answer your questions and ease some concerns — both yours and your child's.
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Anesthesia: What to Expect
Here's a quick look at what may happen before, during, and after your child gets anesthesia.
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Can Anesthesia Hurt Brain Development?
Find out what the experts say.
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Elective Surgery
Elective surgery means you and the doctor decide when the it will happen. Many elective surgeries are important, potentially life-changing operations. Here's how to plan for them.
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Epilepsy Surgery
Epilepsy surgery is an operation done on the brain to reduce or stop seizures.
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Gastrostomy Tube (G-Tube)
Some kids have medical problems that prevent them from being able to take adequate nutrition by mouth. A gastrostomy tube (also called a G-tube) delivers nutrition directly to the stomach.
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Giving Opioid Prescription Pain Medicine: What Parents Need to Know
If your child’s health care provider prescribed a prescription pain medicine that contains an opioid, you probably have many questions about how to use it safely. Get answers here.
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Heart Transplant
If your child needs a heart transplant, you're probably feeling lots of emotions. Fortunately, many kids who undergo heart transplants go on to live normal, healthy lives.
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Helping Kids Get Ready for Surgery
Kids who will be having surgery may feel stressed about it. Here's how parents can help them.
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Laryngoscopy
Laryngoscopy, a visual exam of the voicebox and airway, can help discover the causes of voice and breathing problems, throat or ear pain, and other bothersome symptoms.
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Liver Transplant
If your child needs a liver transplant, you're probably feeling lots of emotions. Fortunately, most kids who have liver transplants go on to live normal, healthy lives.
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Meatoplasty
The treatment for meatal stenosis is a simple procedure to make the opening of the meatus bigger called a meatoplasty.
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Minimally Invasive Surgery
Minimally invasive surgery is a type of procedure done with smaller incisions (cuts).
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Preventing Infections When Your Child Has Surgery (Video)
Learn how to prevent surgical site infections both before and after your child's surgery.
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Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP)
Retinopathy of prematurity, which can happen in premature babies, causes abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina. Some children will need surgery to prevent vision loss or blindness.
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Sedation
Sedation is the use of medicines to help someone relax and not feel pain during a medical procedure.
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Spinal Fusion Surgery
A spinal fusion is a surgical procedure that's done to stabilize or straighten the bones in the back. It can help kids and teens with scoliosis.
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Splenectomies
A splenectomy is surgery to remove an injured spleen.
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Treating Appendicitis: Comparing Surgery With Antibiotic Treatment
For some kids, treating appendicitis can mean surgery or antibiotics. Find out about the differences.
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Treating Gastroschisis - Gastroschisis Silo (Video)
Gastroschisis is when a baby is born with the intestines, and sometimes other organs, sticking out through a hole in the belly wall near the umbilical cord. A gastroschisis silo allow the intestines to slowly move into the belly.
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Treating Indirect Inguinal Hernia (Video)
An inguinal hernia happens when part of the intestines slips into the groin (where the belly meets the upper leg) instead of staying in the belly as it should. Doctors fix inguinal (IN-gwuh-nul) hernias with surgery.
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What Is Indocyanine Green (ICG)?
Indocyanine green (ICG) is a medical dye doctors use to find and help treat problems in certain parts of the body.
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What Is Informed Consent?
Informed consent is a legal term that means a person is aware of the facts of a situation (such as a surgical procedure) before agreeing to it.
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What's a Cochlear Implant? (Video)
A cochlear implant is a surgically placed device that helps a person with severe hearing loss hear sounds. Doctors consider cochlear implants for children under 12 months of age with profound hearing loss in both ears. Older children with serious hearing loss also may get cochlear implants.
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What's a Laparoscopic Appendectomy? (Video)
An appendectomy is surgery to remove the appendix. Surgeons remove the appendix when it gets blocked and becomes infected. A laparoscopic appendectomy lets surgeons remove the appendix with the help of a tiny video camera called a laparoscope.
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What's a Laryngoscopy? (Video)
Laryngoscopy is when a doctor uses a special camera to look down the throat to see the voice box (larynx) and vocal cords.
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What's Ear Tube Surgery (Myringotomy)? (Video)
A doctor might suggest ear tube surgery if a child gets many ear infections that don't clear up easily or the ear infections seem to be causing hearing loss or speech delay. Ear tube surgery can drain fluid from the middle ear, prevent future infections, and help the child hear properly again.
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What's Tear Duct Massage (Treating Tear-Duct Blockage)? (Video)
Blocked tear ducts are a fairly common problem in infants. If your child has a blocked tear duct, your doctor may show you how to massage the eye several times a day at home for a few months. Massaging can help open the blockage.
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When Your Child's in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
It can be stressful whenever kids are in the hospital — and even more so when they're admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). A basic understanding of the PICU can help you feel better prepared to help your child recover.
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Wound Healing and Care
How well a wound heals depends on where it is on the body and what caused it. Good home care is an important part of healing.