The illness we call the common cold is caused by a virus that infects the upper respiratory tract (nose, throat, and upper airway). There are no drugs available that kill these viruses. A cold cannot be “cured” by anything except time. The safest and cheapest approach is to let it run its course while you get lots of rest and drink plenty of fluids. Read full article to find out what to do and NOT TO DO.

Help develop kindness and caring. As with any skill, empathy can be taught and developed. Because cognitive abilities and life experiences develop over time, the most effective strategies to use depend on the child’s age. Learn more in this article of Keeping Kids Healthy.

We would like to recognize Dr. Terumi Midoro-Horiuti for being selected to receive the Robert G. Townley Memorial Lectureship at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology 2020 Annual meeting. This is a true testament on the quality of care you can expect to received at UTMB Health Pediatrics.

The Galveston County Daily News, January 15, 2020 In this installment of their popular column, UTMB’s Megan Berman and Richard Rupp help readers understand why it is important that adolescents receive the human papillomavirus vaccine.

Websites are NOT required to post safety warning associated with toys. When buying presents for your child, select toys that are age-appropriate. No matter how mature you think that your child is, he or she should not play with toys that are meant for an older age group. Read the full article for tips on how to choose age-appropriate toys.

RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Almost all children get RSV at least once before they are two years old. For most healthy children, RSV is like a cold, but it can be severe for some infants. Here are things you can do to prevent the spread of RSV.

The holidays are usually a happy and joyful time, but it can also be very stressful. Children stuck at home, along with an array of holiday tasks, can lead to stressful situations and spanking. Please don’t Spank Your Child for the Holidays! Several studies have shown that corporal punishment is ineffective in correcting behaviors in the long-term. Spanking has been shown to cause adverse outcomes in children during childhood and later in life.

We would like to recognize the newest Pediatric Faculty to join the AMT, Dr. Marie Dawlett. Congratulations to all our faculty members who have been selected as educators of the month during 2019. This is a true testament on the quality of care you can expect to received at UTMB Health Pediatrics.

In this Keeping Kids Healthy article, Dr. Sally Robinson discusses the myth that cold weather causes the common cold. Although it may seem that way, the cold and flu are caused by viruses. The decrease in the humidity in the air during the cold time of year allows these viruses to be more active. The best prevention against the common cold is to stay away from people with a cold and practice good hygiene.

The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued a letter for parents about cannabis products. With both CBD and THC, like all other medications or drugs, children are more likely to access and consume them by mistake. The Food and Drug Administration is gathering information about problems related to cannabis. Read and find out more about the symptoms of CBD overdose and for a list of warnings from the FDA.

The medication Zantac/ranitidine has been in the news recently regarding levels of NDMA (a cancer causing agent). The FDA has released a variety of statements regarding this, and at this time, they are beginning a major investigation. The Pediatric GI Nurse Practitioner and Dietitian are offering consultation services to help families find alternative treatments and dietary management of reflux. For an appointment or questions please consult with your Pediatrician. Read full announcement.

ADHD Awareness Month is celebrated every October. In this Keeping Kids Healthy Dr. Sally Robinson discusses how exercise may reduce the severity of the symptoms of attention deficit with hyperactivity. Physical activity appears to be a promising intervention method along with benefits to health over all. Read More.

Using e-cigarettes is sometimes called “vaping”. Some teenagers may talk about “Juuling”, which refers to the name of a company that produces electronic cigarettes. Parents may find it difficult to discuss vaping and other risky activities with their children. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers tips for parents on how to communicate with children and adolescents.

September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. The word “cancer” certainly strikes a scary and emotional note in our hearts, and when attached to the word “childhood” it can be especially frightening. However, as with many things we fear, we can be empowered by understanding. The overall outlook for children and adolescents with cancer has improved greatly. Read More