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  • How to Avoid Common — and Painful — Ear Infections

    Ear infections are one of the most common medical conditions among young children. But that doesn’t mean they should be ignored. Whether your child is experiencing their first ear infection or has been suffering from chronic ear infections for years, it’s vital to understand their causes and symptoms. Why? Untreated ear infections not only can lead to greater and prolonged pain, but also potential hearing loss.

  • They Look Alike, So How Can I Tell if It’s Asthma or Allergies?

    Asthma and allergies are two of the leading causes of chronic illness in children, and the number children experiencing those conditions is increasing due to a range of potential factors. Although asthma and allergies can interact, as well as share common symptoms—including coughing and shortness of breath—it’s important to understand the difference between them. Still, asthma and allergies present in different ways in different age groups. So it’s best to consult with your pediatrician or an allergist if symptoms do arise.

  • The Impact of Music Therapy on Our Pediatric Patients

    This blog was written in conjunction with Agnes Hsieh, a board-certified music therapist at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.

  • Preventing Childhood and Adolescent Obesity

    A lot has been written over many decades about the damaging effects of obesity on children and adolescents. In a recent pediatrics study, researchers found that despite nearly three decades of trying to raise awareness, the childhood obesity epidemic in the United States continues to worsen. Overall, the study shows that 1 out of every 5 children nationwide are obese, and the rate increases with age. By the time teens reach 16 to 19 years old, more than 40 percent struggle with obesity. This is a national health crisis because of the effects obesity can have as the child grows into adulthood.

  • Ruby Makes a Difference with the Teen Leadership Council

    Having a chronic disease, with frequent hospital visits, is always challenging. Particularly for teenagers who can feel isolated from their peers during their illness. For Ruby, it was no different. At the age of 16, she came to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children with a diagnosis of gastroparesis and severe dysmotility of the GI tract. In other words, her digestive system didn’t properly move food from the stomach to the small intestine.

  • Tips for Spring Break Safety

    After making it through the bleak winter months, spring break is a much-needed time to relax and enjoy the (hopefully) warm and sunny weather. Despite the excitement this vacation brings, traditional spring break trips and activities also can be dangerous or even deadly. Whether your family is going on vacation, headed to the beach or enjoying the great outdoors from your backyard, here are some tips to keep your children safe during spring break. 

  • Why Children Should Avoid Energy Drinks

    Here is a fact all parents should know: Energy drinks have no health benefits for children.

  • Recognizing and Treating Your Child’s Congenital Heart Defect

    Learning that your baby has a congenital heart defect can be scary, and while health challenges can exist, the outlook for most children is positive. Although congenital heart defects are serious, most types of the disease can be treated, allowing your child to live a productive and fulfilling life.

  • How to Make Sure the Toys You Buy Are Safe

    Although the winter holidays are a major time for buying children’s toys, the truth is, we buy toys year round. We buy for birthdays—whether for our own children, relatives or our children’s friends. We buy gifts to celebrate achievements, like preschool graduation, or to encourage a skill or interest. We even stock up on toys based on the season, such as buying beach toys and sidewalk chalk in the spring.

  • What Parents Should Know About Measles

    This blog was written in conjunction with Federico Laham, MD, medical director of the Infectious Diseases Department at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children.