Diseases & Conditions

Articles In This Section

• Heart Health

  Are you heart smart? Learn about this amazing muscle, including how to care for kids with heart conditions.

• Food Allergies and Food Sensitivities

  Find more than 30 articles in English and Spanish about all aspects of food allergies in children.

• Allergies

  Explore more than 20 articles in English and Spanish about all aspects of allergies in children.

• Cancer Center

  From treatments and prevention to coping with the emotional aspects of cancer, the Cancer Center provides comprehensive information that parents need.

• Diabetes Center

  Does your child have type 1 or type 2 diabetes? Learn how to manage the disease and keep your child healthy.

• Asthma Center

  Asthma keeps more kids home from school than any other chronic illness. Learn how to help your child manage the condition, stay healthy, and stay in school.

• Five Ways to Prepare for an Allergy Emergency

  Being prepared for an allergy emergency will help you, your child, and other caregivers respond in the event of a serious reaction.

• Heart and Circulatory System

  The heart and circulatory system are our body's lifeline, delivering blood to the body's tissues. Brush up on your ticker with this body basics article.

• A Cold or Allergies: Which Is It?

  Is it a cold or allergies? Find out what the experts have to say.

• Body Basics: The Heart (Slideshow)

  Learn how this amazing muscle pumps blood throughout the body.

• Words to Know (Heart Glossary)

  A guide to medical terms about the heart and circulatory system. In an easy A-Z format, find definitions on heart defects, heart conditions, treatments, and more.

• De corazón: nuestras historias (video)

  En este video, verá a cuatro niños hablar de sus vidas y la manera en la que conviven, y viven plenamente, con sus afecciones del corazón.

• De corazón: los padres hablan (video)

  En este video podrá ver hablar a los padres de los niños o adolescentes que tienen afecciones del corazón.

• Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR)

  This problem with the urinary tract causes urine to flow backward from the bladder to the kidneys. Most cases can be treated effectively, and many kids outgrow the condition.

• Renal Tubular Acidosis

  This kidney problem causes acid levels in the blood to become too high, causing fatigue, muscle weakness, and other kidney problems. The condition is usually treatable.

• Nephrotic Syndrome

  Nephrotic syndrome happens when tiny filtering units in the kidneys stop working properly. This can cause weight gain and other symptoms. Most kids eventually outgrow it.

• Kidney Stones

  Kidney stones mostly happen to adults, but sometimes kids and teens can get them. Find out what kidney stones are, how to treat them, and ways to help prevent them.

• Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)

  If your child has blood in the urine, don't panic. Most of the time it's not serious. Find out what causes it and what to do about it.

• Glomerulonephritis

  Glomerulonephritis happens when tiny filtering units in the kidneys stop working properly. Most cases get better on their own or with treatment.

• What Is Epigenetics?

  Epigenetics - the idea that environmental factors can change the health not only of the people who are exposed to them, but also the health of their descendants - is something we'll be hearing more about.

• From the Heart: Our Stories (Video)

  In this video, hear from four kids and teens who are living — and thriving — with heart conditions.

• From the Heart: Parents Talk (Video)

  Hear what's worked well for these families, who have kids who are living with heart conditions.

• Klinefelter Syndrome

  Boys with this condition have an extra "X" chromosome that prevents them from developing normally during puberty. But hormone treatments, counseling, and other therapies can help boys develop more masculine traits and build their self-esteem.

• Video: A Boy Named Finn – Cancer in Young Children

  "A Boy Named Finn" is a 12-minute show that explains cancer treatment to young children. Find the video and other cancer treatment resources here.

• Sickle Cell Disease: Theresa’s Story (Video)

  Find out what works for this teen when it comes to living with - and managing - her disease.

• Sickle Cell Disease: Mike’s Story (Video)

  Learn how this teen helps manage his disease and stay on top of his game.

• Scoliosis: Teens Talk (Video)

  Two teens talk about what it's like to have scoliosis, and how treatment has helped them look and feel better.

• Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Steven’s Story (Video)

  A teen athlete talks about why he won't let his condition take him out of the game.

• Going to School With Food Allergies

  With preparation and education, a child with a food allergy can stay safe at school.

• What Is Oral Allergy Syndrome?

  Oral allergy syndrome can cause an itchy mouth and throat. Find out more.

• What’s the Difference Between a Food Allergy and a Food Intolerance?

  Food allergies and food intolerances, like lactose intolerance, are not the same. Find out more.

• If My Child Has Food Allergies, What Should I Look for When Reading Food Labels?

  Food labels can help you spot allergens your child must avoid. Find out more.

• Fibromyalgia

  The chronic condition fibromyalgia causes widespread pain in the muscles, joints, and other areas of the body. Lifestyle changes and other strategies can help kids who have it feel better.

• Cardiac Catheterization

  This minimally invasive procedure helps doctors perform diagnostic tests on the heart and even treat some heart conditions.

• Insect Sting Allergy

  Insect sting allergies can cause serious reactions. Find out how to keep kids safe.

• Fish Allergy

  Fish allergy can cause a serious reaction. Find out how to keep kids safe.

• Shellfish Allergy

  Shellfish allergy can cause serious reactions. Find out common symptoms of allergic reactions and how to respond.

• Milk Allergy

  Milk allergy can cause serious reactions. Find out how to keep kids safe.

• Wheat Allergy

  Wheat allergy can cause serious reactions. Find out how to help kids with an allergy stay safe.

• Soy Allergy

  Soy is found in many foods and it's a common food allegy. Find out how to help kids with an allergy stay safe.

• When Your Child Needs a Kidney Transplant

  If your child needs a kidney transplant, you're probably feeling lots of emotions. Fortunately, many kids who undergo kidney transplants go on to live normal, healthy lives.

• Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

  Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) makes it difficult for a child to move around, walk, or breathe. Although there is no cure, therapy and other treatments help improve a child's skills.

• Peritonsillar Abscess

  Older kids and teens with tonsilitis sometimes develop this painful abscess, a pus-filled tissue at the back of the mouth.

• What Is Skin Testing for Allergies?

  A scratch or skin prick test is a common way doctors find out more about a person's allergies.

• When Your Child Needs a Liver Transplant

  If your child needs a liver transplant, you're probably feeling lots of emotions. Fortunately, many kids who undergo liver transplants go on to live normal, healthy lives.

• Acanthosis Nigricans

  Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a condition that causes the skin to thicken and darken in places. AN is not harmful or contagious, but can be a sign of certain other medical conditions.

• Beta Thalassemia

  Beta thalassemia is a blood disorder in which the body has a problem producing beta globin, a component of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body.

• Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)

  The ductus arteriosus (DA) is a blood vessel that connects two major arteries before birth and normally closes after a baby is born. When the DA stays open, a condition called patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) results.

• Tetralogy of Fallot

  Tetralogy of Fallot is a combination of four birth defects that together affect the structure of the heart and how blood flows through it.

• Psoriasis

  Psoriasis causes skin cells to build up on the surface of the skin where they form itchy, red patches and thick scales. Find out what causes psoriasis and how to help your child deal with it.

• Tapeworm

  Tapeworms are usually more upsetting to think about than to deal with. Tapeworm infections are rare in the United States, and they're usually easy to treat.

• Costochondritis

  This type of chest pain may seem scary at first, but it's usually nothing to worry about. Most kids begin to feel better on their own after a few days.

• Hirschsprung Disease

  Children with Hirschsprung disease aren't able to pass a bowel movement, or do so with difficulty. Treatment almost always requires surgery.

• Eardrum Injuries

  A "popped" eardrum is more than just painful - it can sometimes lead to hearing loss. Learn about eardrum injuries and how to prevent them.

• Broken Collarbone (Clavicle Fracture)

  Learn about broken collarbones (or clavicle fractures), a common sports injury in kids, including how to help prevent them.

• Testicular Torsion

  This emergency condition causes extreme genital pain and usually requires surgery to save a boy's testicle. If your son has groin pain, get him to a doctor right away.

• Chiari Malformation

  Many kids with this brain condition aren't bothered by it. Those who have symptoms can often find relief with medicines or surgery.

• Hives (Urticaria)

  Has your child broken out in welts? It could be a case of the hives. Learn how to soothe itchy bumps and help your child feel better.

• Torticollis

  Torticollis is a common condition that causes a stiff neck or neck pain that makes it difficult for kids to turn their heads.

• Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)

  IUGR is when a baby in the womb doesn't grow at the expected rate during the pregnancy. Women with IUGR should eat a healthy diet; get enough sleep; and avoid alcohol, drugs, and tobacco.

• Infant Torticollis

  Babies with this condition have trouble turning their heads, due to muscle tightness. Simple stretching exercises can help make the problem go away.

• Ears

  Hearing may be the ears' main job, but it's not all they do. Learn all about the ears in this Body Basics article.

• Kyphosis

  Everyone's spine is slightly rounded forward at a gentle angle. If this angle is too pronounced, more than 50 degrees or so, it's called kyphosis, also known as roundback or hunchback.

• Sleep Problems in Teens

  Does your teen have trouble falling asleep at night? Is he or she sleepy during the day? Find out if it's just a normal part of adolescence, or if something else is to blame.

• What’s a Halo?

  Much like a fiberglass cast holds a broken arm or leg in place, a "halo" with vest holds a child's head and neck in place after a spinal injury so that spinal bones can heal.

• Pancreatitis

  Pancreatitis is sometimes mistaken for a stomach virus because symptoms can include fever, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Symptoms usually get better on their own, but sometimes treatment is needed.

• Can Kids Get Allergies All Year?

  Find out what the experts have to say.

• Seasonal Allergies (Hay Fever)

  At various times of the year, pollen and mold spores trigger the cold-like symptoms associated with seasonal allergies. Most kids find relief through reduced exposure to allergens or with medications.

• Poison Ivy

  About 60% to 80% of all people get a reaction to poison ivy. Check out this article for tips on what to do and how to avoid poison ivy.

• Is There a Connection Between Vaccines and Autism?

  Find out what the experts have to say.

• Raising a Child With Autism: Paige and Iain’s Story

  When their son was diagnosed with autism at age 3, Paige and Iain were devastated. Since then, Lochlan has gotten the treatment and services he needs, and is learning about the world around him. Read their story.

• Panner’s Disease

  Panner's disease is a rare but painful bone condition linked to overuse of the elbow. Even though recovery can be slow, the condition usually doesn't cause any long-term problems.

• Sever’s Disease

  Sever's disease, a common heel injury in kids, is due to inflammation (swelling) of the growth plate in the heel. While painful, it's only temporary and has no long-term effects.

• Metabolic Syndrome

  Metabolic syndrome is a group of health problems that put kids at risk for heart disease and diabetes. With lifestyle changes, however, many kids are able to improve their health and reduce their risk of disease.

• What Is Pompe Disease?

  Find out what the experts have to say.

• Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis (SCFE)

  Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) refers to a shift at the upper part of the thighbone, or femur, that results in a weakened hip joint. Fortunately, when caught early, most cases of SCFE can be treated successfully.

• Jumper’s Knee (Patellar Tendonitis)

  Jumper's knee is an inflammation or injury of the patellar tendon. Although it can seem minor, it's actually a serious condition that can get worse over time and ultimately require surgery if not treated.

• Strokes

  This "brain attack" happens when blood flow to the brain stops, even for a brief second. Signs and symptoms of strokes in kids are similar to those in adults.

• Osteomyelitis

  Osteomyelitis is a bone infection caused by germs entering the body's tissues through an open wound. The easiest way to prevent it is to practice good hygiene.

• Growth Plate Injuries

  Injuries to growth plates, which produce new bone tissue and determine the final length and shape of bones in adulthood, must be treated so that bones heal properly.

• Balance Disorders

  Most kids stumble and fall from time to time, but a child who continually loses his or her balance might have a balance disorder.

• Blount Disease

  Blount disease is a growth disorder that causes the bones of the lower leg to curve outward, making someone appear bowlegged.

• Liver Tumors

  Treatment for these abnormal growths (which can be cancerous or noncancerous) may involve surgery, chemotherapy, and/or radiation.

• Germ Cell Tumors

  Germ cell tumors, which can be cancerous or noncancerous, occur when cells in a developing fetus develop abnormally.

• Side Effects of Chemotherapy and Radiation

  Side effects of cancer treatment can include fatigue or flu-like symptoms, hair loss, and blood clotting problems. After treatment ends, most side effects gradually go away.

• Brain and Nervous System Cancers

  These cancers are the second most common type of cancer in children. When discovered early, they are usually treatable.

• When Your Child Needs a Cast

  Casts keep bones in place while they heal. Depending on the severity of the injury, a cast can be worn for a few weeks to a few months.

• Knee Injuries

  Knee injuries are common among young athletes. Learn about causes, treatments, and prevention.

• Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injuries

  MCL injuries - which are common in active and athletic kids - happen when excessive pressure is put on the knee joint, resulting in a torn ligament.

• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries

  ACL injuries - which are common in active and athletic kids - happen when excessive pressure is put on the knee joint, resulting in a torn ligament.

• Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL)

  ALL is the most common type of leukemia, affecting nearly 75% of kids who have this cancer of the blood cells. With treatment, most recover.

• Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia (JMML)

  Learn about this type of blood cancer that usually affects kids under 2 years old.

• Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

  Among kids with leukemia, 20% have this form of the blood cancer. With treatment, most recover.

• Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia (CML)

  While this type of blood cancer is more common in adults, it affects children, too. Thanks to advances in therapy, most kids with CML can be cured.

• 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.

• Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS)

  Rhabdomyosarcoma is a cancerous tumor that shows up in the body's soft tissues. With early diagnosis and timely treatment, most kids make a full recovery.

• Henoch-Schönlein Purpura (HSP)

  Most kids who develop this inflammation of the blood vessels (marked by a raised red and purple rash) make a full recovery and have no long-term problems.

• When Your Child Needs a 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.

• Port-Wine Stains

  For most kids, these birthmarks are no big deal — they're just part of who they are. Read about port-wine stains, how to care for them, and, if necessary, what treatments are available.

• Ear Injuries

  Ear injuries not only can affect a child's hearing, but sense of balance, too. That's because our ears also help keep us steady on our feet.

• Effects of Cancer Treatment on Fertility

  While some cancer treatments have little to no effect on reproductive health, others are more likely cause temporary or permanent infertility.

• Wilms Tumor

  Wilms tumor is a cancer of the kidneys that usually affects newborns and the very young. Fortunately, most kids with Wilms tumor survive and go on to live normal, healthy lives.

• Retinoblastoma

  Retinoblastoma is a childhood cancer that affects the retina, the area of the eye responsible for sensing light and sending nerve signals to the brain.

• Ototoxicity (Ear Poisoning)

  Learn about this side effect of taking certain medications.

• Hodgkin Lymphoma

  Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system.

• Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip

  Babies are born with this hip deformity or develop it soon after birth. With early treatent, kids can avoid long-term hip problems.

• Hydrocephalus

  Often called "water on the brain," hydrocephalus can cause babies' and young children's heads to swell to make room for excess cerebrospinal fluid. Learn how this condition is managed.

• In-toeing & Out-toeing in Toddlers

  What is in-toeing and how will it affect your child? Find out what the experts have to say.

• Chronic Hoarseness

  Misuse of the vocal cords — caused by such things as repetitive screaming, yelling, or using the voice in an unnatural way — can lead to chronic hoarseness. Learn how to get the voice back into perfect pitch.

• Nursemaid’s Elbow

  A quick tug of a toddler's arm can result in a partial dislocation of an elbow ligament, causing an injury known as nursemaid's elbow.

• Ewing Sarcoma

  This type of cancer mainly affects adolescents and usually develops in the arms, legs, ribs, spinal column, and pelvis. With early diagnosis and treatment, many kids with Ewing sarcoma have a good chance of recovery.

• Helping Sam Hear: A Family’s Journey (Video)

  When 3-month-old Sam was diagnosed with profound hearing loss, his parents found hope when they learned that a cochlear implant might help Sam gain the ability to hear. Learn about their journey.

• Neuroblastoma

  Learn about neuroblastoma, a rare type of childhood cancer that develops in infants and young children.

• Neutropenia

  Certain cancers, or cancer treatment, can weaken the immune system, requiring a child to stay home to avoid exposure to germs. Here are ways to help your child make the best of it.

• Serious Allergic Reactions (Anaphylaxis)

  Kids with severe allergies can be at risk for a sudden, serious allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. The good news is it can be prevented and treated.

• Melanoma

  Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer. Find out how to lower your family's risk of getting melanoma and how doctors treat it.

• Should I Worry About the Way My Son Walks?

  Find out what the experts have to say.

• Kids and Diabetes: Wendy’s Story

  Wendy's daughter Madison was diagnosed with diabetes at age 5. Wendy tells how her daughter learned to manage her diabetes and stay an active and happy kid.

• Bell’s Palsy

  Bell's palsy is a temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. Though it can be alarming, it typically goes away in a matter of weeks.

• Mitral Valve Prolapse

  Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is a very common heart condition, but it isn't a critical heart problem or a sign of other serious medical conditions.

• How Can I Teach My Daughter Tolerance?

  Find out what the experts have to say.

• How Can Parents Help Kids Handle Teasing?

  Find out what the experts have to say.

• Helping Sam Hear: A Family’s Journey – Chapter Four: Breaking the Silence

  When 3-month-old Sam was diagnosed with profound hearing loss, his parents found hope when they learned that a cochlear implant might help Sam gain the ability to hear. Learn about their journey.

• Brain Tumors

  Brain tumors are the second most common group of childhood cancers. Treatment requires a very specialized plan involving a team of medical specialists.

• Night Terrors

  A night terror is a sleep disruption that seems similar to a nightmare, but it's far more dramatic. Night terrors can be alarming, but aren't usually cause for concern or a sign of a medical issue.

• What Is Gestational Diabetes?

  Find out what the experts have to say.

• Concussions

  The term concussion conjures up the image of a child knocked unconscious while playing sports. But concussions can happen with any head injury, often without any loss of consciousness.

• Febrile Seizures

  Febrile seizures are full-body convulsions caused by high fevers that affect young kids. Although they can be frightening, they usually stop on their own and don't cause any other health problems.

• Helping Sam Hear: A Family’s Journey – Chapter Three: Surgery

  When 3-month-old Sam was diagnosed with profound hearing loss, his parents found hope when they learned that a cochlear implant might help Sam gain the ability to hear. Learn about their journey.

• Epilepsy

  Epilepsy causes electrical signals in the brain to misfire, which can lead to multiple seizures over a period of time. Anyone can get epilepsy at any age, but the majority of new diagnoses are in kids.

• Helping Sam Hear: A Family’s Journey – Chapter Two: Finding the Way

  When 3-month-old Sam was diagnosed with profound hearing loss, his parents found hope when they learned that a cochlear implant could help Sam learn to hear. Follow their journey.

• Helping Sam Hear: A Family’s Journey

  When 3-month-old Sam was diagnosed with profound hearing loss, his parents found comfort and hope when they learned that a cochlear implant could help Sam learn to hear. Follow the family's journey, from the diagnosis through surgery and beyond.

• Helping Sam Hear: A Family’s Journey – Chapter One: The Diagnosis

  When 3-month-old Sam was diagnosed with profound hearing loss, his parents found hope when they learned that a cochlear implant might help Sam gain the ability to hear. Learn about their journey.

• Celiac Disease

  Kids who have celiac disease, a disorder that makes their bodies react to gluten, can't eat certain kinds of foods. Find out more - including what foods are safe and where to find them.

• Lead Poisoning

  Long-term exposure to lead can cause serious health problems, particularly in young kids, so it's important to find out whether your child might be at risk for lead exposure.

• Marfan Syndrome

  Marfan syndrome is a progressive genetic disorder that affects the body's connective tissue. Even though the disease has no cure, doctors can successfully treat just about all of its symptoms.

• Arrhythmias

  Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms usually caused by an electrical "short circuit" in the heart. Many don't require treatment; however, some need to be evaluated and treated by a doctor.

• Coarctation of the Aorta

  Coarctation of the aorta is a treatable congenital defect in which a child's aorta is narrowed at some point.

• Ventricular Septal Defect

  Ventricular septal defect (VSD) - also known as a "hole in the heart" - is a congenital heart defect. Fortunately, most VSDs are diagnosed and treated successfully.

• Sleepwalking

  Although it can be unnerving to see, sleepwalking is actually very common in kids. Here's how to keep your young sleepwalker safe.

• Diarrhea

  Most kids battle diarrhea from time to time, so it's important to know what to do to relieve and even prevent it.

• Lactose Intolerance

  Many kids have lactose intolerance - trouble digesting lactose, the main sugar in milk and milk products - which can cause cramps, diarrhea, and gas.

• Constipation

  Constipation is a very common problem among kids, and it usually occurs because a child's diet doesn't include enough fluids and fiber. In most cases, simple changes can help kids go.

• Vaginal Yeast Infections

  Vaginal yeast infections are common among growing girls, and can cause some pain and discomfort. They usually clear up quickly with proper medical treatment.

• Dwarfism

  Dwarfism is a condition that is characterized by short stature. Many of the possible complications of dwarfism are treatable, so that people of short stature can lead healthy, active lives.

• 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.

• Treating Type 1 Diabetes

  For kids diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, it's important to create a diabetes management plan to help them manage the condition and stay healthy and active.

• Treating Type 2 Diabetes

  Kids who are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes will need a diabetes management plan to help them manage the condition and stay healthy and active.

• Type 2 Diabetes: What Is It?

  With some practical knowledge about type 2 diabetes, you can become your child's most important ally in learning to live with the disease.

• Type 1 Diabetes: What Is It?

  Every year in the United States, 13,000 children are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. With some practical knowledge, you can become your child's most important ally in learning to live with the disease.