MBBS, DNB
Dr. Arva Bhavnagarwala did her post-graduation from Masina Hospital in Mumbai and worked at Jaslok Hospital and Research Center as a Clinical Associate. With seven years of experience, she currently practices pediatrics at her private clinic in South Mumbai and is attached to Masina Hospital as a consultant pediatrician. Dr. Bhavnagarwala is a National Advisory Board Member of Indian Pediatrics, the official publication of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics. When not seeing patients, she writes short stories, a few of which have found their place in anthologies by reputed platforms like Women’s Web and eShe magazine.
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Graves\' disease in children is a chronic autoimmune condition, which means the child’s immune system causes the condition. Graves\' disease accounts for 10–15% of all thyroid disorders in children and teens. It is characterized by weight loss, increased heartbeat, fatigue, and other health issues that require long-term medical intervention (1) (2). It is also among the most common causes of hyperthyroidism in children. Read this post to learn more about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment modalities for Graves\' disease in children. [mj-toc] What Causes Graves' Disease In Children? The exact cause of Graves\' disease remains unclear, but it is believed that the disease is caused due to genetic and environmental factors. The pathophysiology of the disease is based on the binding of an antibody called thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) to the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), signaling an increased synthesis of thyroid hormones, T3 and T4, and growth in the thyroid gland (overactive thyroid). It eventually leads to hyperthyroidism (3). Studies suggest...
Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome in babies is a congenital genetic disorder that affects around one in 15,000 births. It is detectable in babies at birth since they are born with the characteristic features of Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS), such as an enlarged limb (called hemihypertrophy). Some babies inherit this condition from their parents, while new genetic modifications could lead to BWS in some cases. However, early cancer screening and tailored intervention could help prevent future risks and complications in the baby. Read this article to explore more about the signs and symptoms, causes, risks, diagnosis, treatment options, and long-term outlook of Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) in babies. [mj-toc] Signs And Symptoms Of BWS In Babies The physical features of Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome are part of the 11p overgrowth or 11p overgrowth spectrum. 11p overgrowth includes overgrowth and other features associated with genetic changes at the 11p region of chromosome 11. These features may include (1): Macrosomia is increased birth weight and length Hemihypertrophy or hemihyperplasia...
Dyscalculia in children is characterized by a math learning disability that can affect their ability to perform mathematical calculations and understand or learn arithmetic (1). Dyscalculia can be developmental (present at birth) or acquired (occurring later in life, such as after a brain injury). Children with dyscalculia may face several challenges on the academic and personal front because they may have significantly lower academic skills than their peers (2) (3). It may lead to issues with self-confidence and self-esteem. Read this post to learn about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for children with dyscalculia. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/muscular-dystrophy-children-signs-types-causes-treatment_00822867/" title="Muscular Dystrophy In Children: Types, Causes, Signs And Treatment"] [mj-toc] Causes Of Dyscalculia In Children In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-V), as stated by the American Psychiatric Association, dyscalculia is referred to difficulties with basic mathematical concepts, facts, and calculations (2). Some children with dyscalculia cannot grasp basic number concepts and work hard to memorize them,...
Flea bites on children appear as tiny and itchy red bumps or welts on the skin. These occur due to the bites of fleas, which thrive on blood. Fleas are often transmitted to humans from furry pets such as dogs or cats. The fleas jump on non-living objects, such as carpets or tables, and transfer to a new host from there. However, flea infestation may occur in houses without pets, too. The bumps due to flea bites may be painful and itchy, causing significant discomfort to the child. But, constant itching may increase the risk of secondary infection. Timely diagnosis and treatment of flea bites are important to prevent secondary infection. Read on to know more about complications, treatment, and prevention of flea bites in children. [mj-toc] How Do Flea Bites Look? [caption id="attachment_880294" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] The common signs and symptoms of flea bites in children include Extreme itching (pruritus). Development of small, red, hard bumps or welts...
[mj-toc] The groin region refers to the hip area between the stomach and the thighs. Groin pain in children can result from straining of the muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, or bones in the groin region. A muscle injury in the groin may also lead to pain. Children participating in sports may experience it more often, and parents may help them deal with it by seeking medical attention upon the persistence of symptoms. The following post discusses the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of groin pain in children. Causes And Risk Factors For Groin Pain In Children It is difficult to ascertain the exact cause of groin pain in children. Generally, the pain in the groin area develops due to a recent injury to the groin muscles. It can occur due to (1) (2) (3) A previous injury. Heavy lifting and sudden falls. Heavy workouts without adequate warm-up, leading to muscle strain or tear. Excessive exercise. A Sudden change in direction...
Scabies in kids is a parasitic infection caused by the mite Sarcoptes scabei var hominis. The mite creates burrows in the human skin for reproduction. When affected by Sarcoptes, the skin turns hypersensitive, and the body’s immune response gives rise to uncomfortable, itchy rashes and blisters on the skin (1). Scabies spread quickly in public places, making children more susceptible to it. Thus, even if one child catches scabies in the neighborhood or school, it puts the other children and their families at the risk of contracting it. Read on to know about causes, risk factors, symptoms, complications, treatment for scabies in children, and the preventative measures to avoid the spread of infection. [mj-toc] Is Scabies Contagious? [caption id="attachment_890736" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Yes, scabies is a highly contagious disease that spreads through skin-to-skin contact. Thus, children who come into contact with a child who has the infestation at schools or child care centers are at a high risk of...
The umbilical stump is part of the umbilical cord and falls off after about one to two weeks from birth. Umbilical granuloma in newborns can be observed as a tissue overgrowth commonly during the healing of the umbilical cord stump. It is characterized as a soft, pink, and wet lump oozing a clear fluid or fluid with a yellowish tinge (1). The granuloma is evident after the umbilical cord stump has separated (2). The prevalence of granuloma prevents the tissue from developing around the navel (umbilicus). This post will help you understand umbilical granuloma in babies, including its causes, symptoms, and treatments. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/causes-of-stomach-pain-in-infants_00348976/" title="Baby Stomach Pain: Causes, Symptoms, And Home Remedies"] [mj-toc] Causes Of Infant Umbilical Granuloma [caption id="attachment_1061782" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] The exact cause of infant umbilical granuloma is unknown. It may occur due to an inflammatory reaction to cord separation or a delay in cutting the cord. Some researchers also believe that the cord-cutting technique may...
Dwarfism in children refers to having a stunted growth or short stature, i.e. when a child fails to attain the adult height of more than four feet ten inches (1). Dwarfism is usually not considered a disease or an intellectual disability but might lead to certain medical complications. However, you can help your child manage the condition with proper medical attention and care. Children with dwarfism have a normal life expectancy and the usual intellect and abilities to have a regular quality of life (2). The frequency of having a child with dwarfism is one per 25,000 births, and 80% of children with this condition have parents and siblings of average height. Similarly, parents with dwarfism may have children unaffected by this condition (1) (3). Keep reading to learn about the types, causes, risk factors, complications, diagnosis, and treatment for dwarfism in children. [mj-toc] Types And Symptoms Of Dwarfism Dwarfism can be broadly divided into two types based on the...
Hypothyroidism in children, just as in adults, is the excessive production of the thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped endocrine gland located below the larynx (voice box) in the front of the neck. It produces thyroid hormones, including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which are secreted into the bloodstream. The thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) which is produced in the brain causes the release of the thyroid hormones. These hormones regulate your child’s metabolism and energy utilization and ensure the brain, heart, kidney, and other organs function properly (1). Therefore, thyroid dysfunction or disorders can have profound detrimental effects (2) (3). This post discusses the types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of hypothyroidism in children. [mj-toc] Hypothyroidism In Children The main thyroid disorders are hyperthyroidism or excessive thyroid hormone production (overactive thyroid gland) and hypothyroidism or insufficient hormone production (underactive gland). Adults are more likely to have hypothyroidism, but it is the most common thyroid condition in children and teenagers...
Gynecomastia in teens is common and happens mostly due to hormonal changes and is characterized by excess breast tissue growth. All men have some glandular breast tissue physiologically. However, for some men, it grows more than in others, thereby making the breasts appear more prominent (1). As the condition happens due to hormonal changes, in most cases, it resolves on its own. However, in some cases, certain underlying medical conditions may lead to gynecomastia or swollen breasts in men. To know the exact cause of gynecomastia, consult a professional healthcare provider. Read on as we discuss the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of gynecomastia in teens. [mj-toc]How Common Is Gynecomastia In Teens? Adolescent gynecomastia is a common condition and starts around the age of ten. Nearly half of all adolescent boys between the ages of 12 and 16 develop gynecomastia in either one or both breasts. Gynecomastia recedes on its own within a few years. By the age of 17 years,...
Pityriasis rosea in children is characterized by pink or red scaly rashes. Usually, the rash begins as a single, one- to two-inch oval patch, called a herald patch. Eventually, it increases to multiple smaller and itchy patches. It is more common in older children and teens, and the underlying cause is usually unknown (1) (2). The rashes may last for one to three months and be mildly uncomfortable. For most children, the rashes are mild, non-contagious, and do not leave any scars after healing. Pityriasis rosea can be treated at home with minimal or no medical intervention in most cases. Read this article to learn about the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of pityriasis rosea in children. [mj-toc]Signs And Symptoms Of Pityriasis Rosea In Children [caption id="attachment_893209" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Pityriasis rosea usually starts as a single, large reddish or pinkish patch, called the herald patch. After several days, several rashes appear on the torso, neck, arms, and legs. Several...