Category: Common Questions English
-
How do I treat vomiting in children at home?
The main goal is to prevent dehydration, and management varies according to the child’s age: Start with bland foods (such as bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) after vomiting stops for several hours. Do not give milk if the child has diarrhea. Consult a doctor if vomiting persists or if the child does not improve.
-
How do I know if my child has acid reflux?
Acid reflux in children may be indicated by symptoms such as:
-
What is celiac disease and how does it affect children?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten (found in wheat, barley, rye) that damages the intestinal lining and affects absorption of nutrients. Symptoms vary with age and may include: Screening for celiac disease is recommended for children with persistent symptoms, especially if there is a family history of the condition.
-
What is GERD in children?
GERD is the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, causing heartburn, chest pain, feeding difficulties, frequent vomiting, cough, and difficulty breathing. GERD is common and often resolves by the age of one, but if symptoms persist or worsen, treatment may be required.
-
What is appendicitis?
Appendicitis is an inflammation of a small pouch on the lower right side of the abdomen near the intestines, causing severe pain that starts around the navel and moves to the lower right abdomen. The child may feel pain when touching the abdomen or moving, lose appetite, vomit, and may have diarrhea and fever. Appendicitis…
-
What are the causes of abdominal pain in children?
Abdominal pain in children can have many causes. It may be mild, such as constipation, gas, indigestion, or overeating, and anxiety. Sometimes it may result from more serious causes such as appendicitis, gastroenteritis, food allergies, or bowel obstruction. You must consult a doctor immediately if the pain is sudden or severe, or if it is…
-
Can I eat sushi during pregnancy?
Yes, you can eat sushi during pregnancy if it is well-cooked and made with low-mercury fish such as cooked salmon, shrimp, crab, or vegetables, and avoid raw sushi completely during pregnancy to prevent harmful bacterial infections.
-
How often should I eat while breastfeeding?
It is recommended to eat 3 main meals per day plus 2–3 healthy snacks. Listen to your hunger cues, as nutritional needs vary between mothers depending on milk production and the baby’s requirements. Prepare light, nutritious snacks near your feeding area, drink water regularly, and focus on eating protein, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
-
Do spicy foods affect breastfeeding?
Spicy foods are safe during breastfeeding but may change the flavor of breast milk, which can help the baby accept a wider variety of tastes later. However, if the baby becomes fussy or develops diarrhea after the mother eats spicy food, it is recommended to limit its consumption.
-
What are the best dietary sources of iron?
To improve iron absorption, it is recommended to consume foods rich in vitamin C, like orange juice or strawberries.
-
Is taking supplements during breastfeeding necessary?
Not all mothers need vitamin supplements during breastfeeding if their diet is balanced, but supplements may be beneficial in cases of dietary restrictions, vegan diets, or malnutrition. It is recommended to consult a doctor to determine if you need iron or vitamin D supplements.
-
What foods are recommended during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the mother’s body needs a balanced diet that supports fetal growth and maintains her health. Key recommended foods include:
-
How does screen time affect a child’s development?
Spending excessive time in front of screens negatively affects a child’s development as follows: For prevention, it is recommended to:
-
What toys help with early learning?
Educational toys should match the child’s age and developmental stage. Examples:
-
How do I know if my child has delayed development?
Developmental delays in some skills may indicate a problem in growth. Warning signs include: It is recommended to consult a doctor to assess the child’s growth and development if you notice these signs.
-
When do children start crawling?
Most children start crawling between 6–12 months. Some may scoot on their stomachs, while others skip crawling and start pulling to stand. Before crawling, a child needs to master head control, sitting independently, rolling over, and supporting themselves on hands and knees.
-
How can I encourage my child to develop language skills?
You can support your child’s language development step by step according to age: From birth to 2 years: From 2 to 4 years: From 4 to 6 years:
-
When do children start walking?
Most children walk independently between 9–18 months, with the average between 12–15 months. If the child has not started walking by 18 months, it is recommended to consult a doctor to check for any delays. In the beginning, walking is unsteady, with feet wide apart for balance, but improves gradually over time.
-
What are the first signs of speech development in children?
A child begins communicating before saying their first word, and their skills gradually develop:
-
How do I prepare my child for a new sibling?
The arrival of a new baby is a big change for the older child and may cause jealousy or anxiety. To prepare them:
-
How do I know if my child is being bullied?
Bullying can be a serious problem. Watch for these warning signs:
-
How do I help my child overcome separation anxiety?
Separation anxiety is normal in children, especially between 8 months and 3 years. You can help your child adjust by:
-
How do I deal with my child lying?
Lying is a common problem among children and often has emotional or environmental causes. It should be handled calmly and without anger or threats. Here are steps to address lying:
-
How do I deal with sibling rivalry?
Sibling rivalry is natural and needs thoughtful management to help children build healthy relationships. Here are effective ways to handle it:
-
What common mistakes should be avoided in raising children?
Here are some common parenting mistakes that may negatively impact children’s emotional and behavioral development:
-
How can I help my child develop independence?
You can help your child develop independence and support them through these steps:
-
What is the difference between punishment and discipline?
Discipline is teaching the child how to behave properly and responsibly to build a strong and independent personality, not just correcting behavior when mistakes occur. Discipline helps the child understand the consequences of their actions, take healthy decisions without constant supervision, and promotes self-control instead of fear. Punishment focuses on past mistakes and may use…
-
How can I teach my baby to sleep independently?
To teach your baby to self-soothe and rely on their natural ability to fall a sleep, follow these steps:
-
Why does my baby wake up at night and cry?
Night waking and crying are common and vary depending on the child’s age and needs. The main reasons include:
-
Is white noise safe for babies?
White noise can be safe for babies if used correctly and moderately, provided the sound level does not exceed 50 decibels (equivalent to the sound of a quiet conversation). For proper use, follow these guidelines:
-
Is snoring in children normal?
Mild occasional snoring in children can be normal, especially during colds. However, persistent or loud snoring may indicate a health problem such as enlarged adenoids, tonsils, or sleep apnea. Signs that require medical consultation include:
-
When can my baby sleep in their own room?
Babies can sleep in their own room safely after 6 months of age, but many parents choose to wait until after the first year. Experts recommend that the baby sleeps in a separate crib in the parents’ room during the first year because this reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
-
How can I get my baby to sleep without rocking or holding?
You can teach your baby to sleep independently without the need for rocking or holding by following these steps:
-
How can I help my newborn develop a sleep routine?
Regulating a newborn’s sleep takes time and patience, especially in the first few months. You can help by following these steps:
-
What is contact dermatitis in children?
Contact dermatitis is a rash that occurs due to skin contact with an irritating or allergenic substance. Main symptoms include: Treatment involves avoiding the irritating substance, using cold compresses to soothe the skin, and applying gentle moisturizers. The doctor may prescribe topical steroid creams for inflammation relief in some cases.
-
How can I protect my child’s skin from dryness in winter?
To protect your child’s skin from dryness during winter, follow these tips:
-
How can I protect my child from ringworm infection?
Ringworm is a fungal infection that causes circular patches on the skin. Prevention includes:
-
How can I protect my child from heat rash in summer?
To protect your child from heat rash during summer, follow these steps:
-
What are the causes of skin rash in children?
Skin rash in children can have many causes, the most common include: Persistent or severe rashes may indicate a serious health problem such as measles. If your child has other symptoms like fever, consult the doctor immediately.
-
What are the best creams for treating diaper rash?
Diaper rash is common among infants and children and should be treated promptly to prevent worsening. Recommended options include: If the rash persists or worsens, antifungal creams may be needed twice daily, and if no improvement is seen within 7 days, consult a doctor for further treatment.
-
How can severe diaper rash be treated in children?
You can use topical steroid creams prescribed by the doctor to treat inflammation, applied twice daily for a short period depending on severity. For sensitive areas, non-steroidal creams may also be used. Some effective home treatments include:
-
How do I manage my child’s eczema at home?
Eczema is a common skin condition that appears as dryness, itching, redness, and irritation of the skin. To relieve it, you can follow these steps: Clothing and Environment Care:
-
Can children drink fruit juices?
Fruit juices are not recommended before one year because they are high in sugar and low in fiber, which can lead to tooth decay, weight gain, and reduced appetite. After one year, children can drink small amounts of 100% natural juice, not exceeding 120 ml per day (about half a cup). It is still preferable…
-
Can infants be given honey?
Honey should not be given before the age of one year because it may contain Clostridium botulinum spores, which can cause botulism poisoning. Symptoms include weak muscles, constipation, breathing difficulties, and excessive crying. After one year of age, honey can be introduced in moderate amounts as part of a healthy diet.
-
What are iron-rich foods for children?
It is recommended to provide iron-rich foods along with a vitamin C source (such as orange juice or tomatoes) to improve absorption. Examples include:
-
What is the suitable diet for a one-year-old child?
At this stage, your child becomes able to eat with the family, and daily caloric needs range between 1000–1400 calories depending on growth and activity level. A balanced diet should include foods from the main groups, with a variety of textures and distributed over 3 main meals and 2–3 snacks (healthy snacks), such as:
-
When should I start giving my baby water?
Small amounts of water can be offered with meals starting at 6 months of age. Babies do not need water before this age, as breast milk or formula provides all their fluid requirements. You can increase the amount of water depending on the number of feedings, and offer more water in hot weather. Juices and…
-
What are the signs of food allergies in children?
Signs of food allergies in children may include: In rare cases, children may have a severe allergic reaction that requires urgent medical intervention. It is important to avoid giving the child the food that caused the reaction and consult the doctor to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
-
Can I give my child cow’s milk before one year of age?
Cow’s milk is not recommended as a main drink before 12 months of age. Small amounts can be used in preparing food, but breast milk or formula remains the best option during this stage. Cow’s milk is not suitable for infants because:
-
How do I know my child is ready to eat solid food?
Solid food is not recommended before 4 months of age. Your child becomes ready for solid food if you notice that they:
-
What are the first foods that can be introduced to infants?
Solid foods can be introduced alongside breastfeeding when the child reaches around 6 months of age. The best foods to start with are mashed and easy-to-swallow foods such as: Be sure to introduce only one new food at a time, waiting 3 days before trying another food to watch for any allergic reaction.
-
Can I continue breastfeeding if I am sick?
Yes, you can continue breastfeeding even when you are sick, as breast milk contains antibodies that help protect your baby and reduce the risk of infection. Just take some precautions:
-
How do I deal with low milk supply?
To increase milk production, you can follow these steps: If the problem continues, consult your doctor or a lactation consultant.
-
How long is breast milk good for in the refrigerator?
You can store breast milk in the refrigerator for up to 4 days at a temperature of 4°C or lower, provided it is stored in the back of the fridge, not the door. Milk can also be stored in the freezer for up to 12 months, but it is best used within 6 months to…
-
What foods boost milk production?
There is no magical food that suddenly increases milk supply, but maintaining a balanced and healthy diet helps improve milk quality and quantity. Key foods beneficial for breastfeeding include:
-
How can I prevent cracked nipples?
Cracked nipples are one of the most common problems mothers face during breastfeeding. It usually occurs due to improper latch or other causes. To prevent and treat it, follow these tips: Breastfeeding should not be stopped, as this may worsen the pain and reduce milk supply.
-
How do I know if my baby is latching correctly?
Good latch means that the baby’s mouth covers most of the areola and grasps both the nipple and part of the surrounding dark area, forming a tight seal. This helps the baby feed effectively and prevents air from entering the stomach. To ensure proper latch, follow these steps:
-
What are the benefits of breastfeeding for the baby?
Breastfeeding provides many benefits for the baby, such as: The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months, then continuing breastfeeding up to two years or more according to the child’s needs and the mother’s wishes.
-
How long should a breastfeeding session last?
The duration of breastfeeding varies depending on the infant’s age. Newborns usually need about 10–40 minutes per feeding session, while older infants may need only 5–20 minutes. You should not focus on the duration of breastfeeding alone, but rather observe signs of good latching and effective feeding, such as: Newborns usually feed every 2–3 hours…
-
What are the signs of lactose intolerance in children?
Lactose intolerance is the inability of the body to digest milk sugar (lactose) found in milk and dairy products. Symptoms usually appear within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming milk, depending on the amount consumed and the level of lactase enzyme deficiency. Symptoms include:
-
How can I protect my child from recurrent colds?
To protect your child from recurrent colds, follow these instructions:
-
Should I give my child antibiotics for every illness?
Antibiotics should not be used for every illness. They are only prescribed for bacterial infections and are ineffective against viral infections such as influenza or colds. Overuse of antibiotics can cause side effects such as diarrhea, rash, and may disrupt the immune system’s ability to fight infections, leading to antibiotic resistance. This makes future infections…
-
How do I know if my child is growing normally?
Your child’s weight, height, and head circumference should be monitored regularly using approved growth charts. You should not compare your child’s growth with other children, as each child has unique growth patterns. Growth delay or regression may indicate a health problem that requires early medical consultation. A child is considered short in stature if their…
-
What is the normal temperature for children?
The normal temperature range for children is between 36.5°C and 37.5°C. A child is considered febrile when the temperature rises to 38°C or more. The method of measuring temperature varies depending on the child’s age as follows:
-
What are the signs of anemia in children?
Anemia is diagnosed by a blood test. To confirm diagnosis, a blood sample must be taken. The common signs of anemia in children include:
-
How do I know if my child has allergies?
The following symptoms may indicate that your child has an allergy: You should consult the doctor immediately if your child shows severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, as these may be signs of a severe allergic reaction that requires urgent medical intervention.
-
What vaccinations does my child need and when?
Children need a series of routine vaccinations starting from birth until the age of 16 years to protect them from dangerous diseases such as: hepatitis B, diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, influenza, and meningitis. The doctor will provide you with a vaccination card containing the type and timing of each vaccine. Here is…
-
How do I sterilize feeding bottles?
Sterilizing feeding tools is very important, especially for babies under one year, to prevent diarrhea and vomiting infections. Bottles and nipples should be washed with hot water and soap before sterilizing, using a special brush for bottles and a smaller one for nipples. Make sure to rinse the tools and brushes well with clean water,…
-
How do I burp my baby correctly?
Burping helps release swallowed air that causes gas and colic symptoms. It is recommended to burp the baby after each feed, or at least when switching breasts during breastfeeding. It usually takes 1–2 minutes. Here are some ways to help with burping:
-
Should I wake my baby for breastfeeding?
You may need to wake the baby every 3–4 hours for feeding during the first weeks, especially if the baby has not regained birth weight. Later, you can let the baby wake naturally once they begin to gain weight steadily. Frequent feeds are important not just to satisfy the baby’s hunger, but also to help…
-
How can I protect my baby from diaper rash?
Change diapers immediately after urination or stool. Clean the skin with warm water or moist fragrance-free wipes. Dry the skin completely before putting on a new diaper, and apply a thin layer of protective ointment. Use a zinc oxide cream to form a protective barrier with every diaper change to protect the skin and prevent…
-
What is the best way to clean the newborn’s umbilical cord?
Always wash your hands before cleaning the cord, and clean the umbilical stump with a warm, moist cloth. Do not use alcohol or creams unless recommended by your doctor. Keep the cord clean and dry until it falls off. Clean any urine or stool around the cord using a moist cotton swab and gently dry…
-
How often should I bathe my newborn?
The World Health Organization recommends delaying the baby’s first bath for at least 24 hours after birth to reduce the risk of hypothermia. Daily bathing is not necessary and may dry out the baby’s sensitive skin, so bathing two to three times per week is enough. You should rely on sponge baths to keep the…
-
What is the correct way to carry the newborn?
Support the baby’s head and neck, especially if under 4 months of age. Place your arm under your baby’s neck and spine, lift gently toward your chest, and keep your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Do not lift your baby with one hand or by pulling their arms or legs. Do not hand the baby…
-
What is the safe way to trim the newborn’s nails?
Most babies are born with long and sharp nails that need trimming after birth immediately, and the best time is after bathing or when the infant is asleep. Use baby nail clippers or a soft nail file and carefully trim the nails straight across. Hold the baby’s hand firmly and gently press the skin under…
-
What is vacuum-assisted delivery?
Vacuum delivery is a type of assisted vaginal delivery, where suction is applied to the baby’s head during the final stage of labor, allowing the mother to continue pushing until the baby is delivered. The trained doctor holds the suction cup, which helps deliver the baby safely. Vacuum delivery is considered safer than using forceps…
-
Are birth plans necessary?
A birth plan is a document suggesting the mother’s preferences during labor and what follows immediately. It may include options for pain relief, presence of a companion in the delivery room, as well as her preferences regarding medical interventions and type of care she would like during labor. The purpose of a birth plan is…
-
What is episiotomy and when is it used?
Episiotomy is a small cut made by the doctor between the vagina and the perineum (perineal area) during labor to widen the vaginal opening and facilitate fetal delivery. It is sometimes performed naturally when the perineum tears during delivery and is called a natural tear. Episiotomy is performed only in some cases, such as:
-
How long is the recovery period from cesarean delivery?
Full recovery takes from 4 to 6 weeks, and some cases may need to stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days after surgery. You will need help during the first days to help you move and breastfeed. You may feel some cramps and bleeding for 6 weeks, with some pain around the wound…
-
What is an epidural and how does it work?
Epidural is an injection in the area surrounding the spinal cord nerves (epidural space) and is used to relieve pain during labor in some medical cases. It is divided into two types:
-
What is labor induction (artificial induction)?
Artificial induction is the intervention performed by the physician or midwife to stimulate contractions instead of waiting for them to occur naturally, and it is usually done when there is a danger to the mother or fetus, or delay in labor beyond the expected due date. If the pregnancy has complications and labor has not…
-
What are breathing techniques during labor?
Breathing techniques vary depending on the stage of labor and help the mother control pain, calm. Techniques include:
-
What are the best relaxation methods during labor?
There are many simple, effective ways that help achieve relaxation and reduce pain. These include: Relaxation techniques can also include breathing exercises, massaging the body to relax muscles gradually, in addition to mental imagery and mental training that help the body deal with contractions with less stress.
-
Is it normal to feel anxious before giving birth?
Yes, feeling anxious before giving birth is very normal, as the body prepares for delivery, and anxiety results from several factors such as:
-
How do i know if i should stop exercising and consult a doctor?
Stop immediately and seek medical advice if you notice:
-
Can exercise help reduce swelling in legs and feet?
Swelling is common during pregnancy, and exercise can help reduce it.
-
What cardio exercises are safe during pregnancy?
In the past, people thought cardio wasn’t necessary for pregnant women, but studies show it’s very beneficial. The goal isn’t to maintain your figure but to stay healthy and strong for childbirth.
-
What abdominal exercises should i avoid during pregnancy?
While core strength is helpful, some moves put too much pressure on the belly and should be avoided or modified, especially later in pregnancy:
-
Can exercises make labor easier?
While exercise won’t make labor pain go away, it will help you cope by increasing your stamina and endurance. Research shows that moderate exercise 3 times a week in the 2nd and 3rd trimester may:
-
Which exercises are safe to do during pregnancy?
Many exercises are safe if you have no problems and your doctor hasn’t told you to avoid it, like: Additionally beneficial and safe strengthening exercises, such as:
-
Do I need to count baby kicks?
In early pregnancy, just notice your baby’s usual pattern. From 28 weeks on, it’s recommended to count:
-
What should I do if my water breaks early?
Go to the hospital immediately. Treatment depends on the pregnancy stage: