Are you curious about your child’s tummy health? Digestive issues are common among children, affecting their overall well-being and daily life. As a parent or caregiver, it’s essential to recognize these issues early and understand how to address them effectively. Let’s explore five of the most common digestive issues in children: Constipation: A prevalent concern among children, constipation occurs when bowel movements become infrequent or difficult. It can result from factors like diet, dehydration, or underlying medical conditions. Watch for signs like abdominal pain, discomfort, or hard s ..read more

Are you a new parent baffled by your baby’s constant fussiness and discomfort after feeding? If so, your little one might be grappling with infant acid reflux, a common yet challenging condition that affects many newborns and infants. What exactly is infant acid reflux, and how can you navigate through it without losing your sanity? Let’s dive into the world of tiny tummies and explore some effective strategies for managing this troublesome condition. Understanding Infant Acid RefluxInfant acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux (GER), occurs when stomach contents flow backward into ..read more

Are you confused about whether your child has a food intolerance or a food allergy? You’re not alone. Many parents find themselves grappling with this question, trying to decipher their child’s symptoms and determine the best course of action. As a pediatric gastroenterologist, I often encounter families facing this dilemma, and I’m here to shed some light on the distinction between these two conditions. Understanding Food Intolerance Let’s start by unraveling the mystery of food intolerance. Unlike food allergies, which involve the immune system, food intolerances are typically non-immunologi ..read more

As parents, we constantly monitor our children’s health, and it’s not uncommon to notice physical changes in our little ones that may raise questions. One such change you might come across is an umbilical hernia. While it can be concerning to see a bulge near your child’s belly button, umbilical hernias are relatively common and often harmless. In this article, we’ll explore what umbilical hernias are, why they occur, and what parents should know to ensure their child’s well-being. What Is an Umbilical Hernia? An umbilical hernia is a condition where a portion of the child’s intestine or abdom ..read more

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For kids with Celiac disease, maintaining a gluten-free diet is crucial to their health and well-being. However, school can present a unique set of challenges that require careful planning and communication. In this guide, we will discuss valuable tips to make this journey smoother. Educate and Empower: Knowledge is power, and it’s essential to educate both yourself and your child about Celiac disease. Equip them with age-appropriate information so they can understand th ..read more

Parenthood comes with its share of challenges, and one of them is deciphering the mysteries of our children’s health. Pediatric abdominal pain is a topic that often leaves parents with furrowed brows and sleepless nights. In this blog, we’ll embark on a journey to explore the common causes of abdominal pain in children and, more importantly, learn when it’s time to seek help from a pediatric gastroenterologist. The Puzzling World of Pediatric Abdominal Pain Abdominal pain in children is like a riddle waiting to be solved. Sometimes it’s as simple as too many cookies causing a tummy ache, while ..read more

Dealing with digestive issues in children can be a challenging journey for parents. Two common conditions that often cause confusion are Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). As a pediatric gastroenterologist, I’m here to help you understand these disorders, their differences, and how to navigate this complex terrain for your child’s well-being. Understanding IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder, which means it affects the functioning of the digestive system without causing structural damage. It’s characterized by a group o ..read more

The “musical learning watch” is marketed to children as young as three-years-old, for learning “core” skills such as telling time, counting, and “daily activities”.  A compartment in the back contains a button or coin cell battery. These batteries are small, shiny, and very appealing to children.  Button and coin batteries power many electronic devices.  When these batteries meet body fluids, the battery generates a current. The current produces small amounts of sodium hydroxide, a harsh corrosive similar to lye. If the battery gets stuck somewhere in the body, the lye burns a h ..read more

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November is a month known for eating delicious food and a perfect to raise awareness about stomach cancer. In 2023, over 26,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with stomach cancer.  Stomach cancer is the 5th most commonly diagnosed cancer in the world and it is the 4th leading cause of cancer deaths. Risk Factors for Stomach Cancer: Age older than 55 Men are twice as likely to develop stomach cancer as women Bacteria called Helicobacter pylori causes stomach inflammation and ulcers and is one of the main causes of stomach cancer. Testing and treatment for Helicobacter pylor ..read more