| Allergies | Allergies | Allergies | A | English | Allergy | Child (0-12 years);Teen (13-18 years) | Body | Immune system | Conditions and diseases | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | Cough;Eye discomfort and redness;Runny nose;Rash;Wheezing | | 2021-03-23T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 8.10000000000000 | 60.8000000000000 | 1477.00000000000 | | Health (A-Z) - Conditions | Health A-Z | <p>This page explains what allergies are, types of allergens, the signs and symptoms of allergies, and also the causes. It also gives examples of common allergies and what to do if your child has an allergic reaction. </p> | <h2>What is an allergy?</h2><p>The immune system protects us by attacking harmful substances such as viruses and bacteria. An allergy is the immune system’s response to a substance called an allergen.</p><p>The allergen is not harmful for most people. However, when a child has an allergy, the immune system treats the allergen as an invader and over-reacts to it. This results in symptoms from mild discomfort to severe distress.</p><p>Allergic disorders, including food allergies, are common in childhood. Many children with allergies also have asthma.<br></p> | <h2>Types of allergens</h2><h3>Common food allergens</h3><div class="akh-series"><div class="row"><div class="col-md-12">
<figure><img src="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/akhassets/Common_food_allergens_EQUIP_ILL_EN.jpg" alt="Illustration of eggs, nuts, shellfish, fish and milk" /> </figure>
<p>The most common food allergens include:</p><ul><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=809&language=English">peanuts</a></li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=812&language=English">tree nuts</a> such as hazelnuts, walnuts, almonds, and cashews</li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=806&language=English">eggs</a></li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=808&language=English">cow's milk</a></li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=813&language=English">wheat</a></li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=805&language=English">soy</a></li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=807&language=English">fish</a></li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=810&language=English">shellfish</a></li></ul></div></div></div><p>Food allergens can also be hidden in common party dishes such as cookies, cakes, candies or other foods. Always ask the cook or the host if dishes contain foods your child is allergic to.</p><p>Far more people have a food intolerance than a food allergy. Unlike a food allergy, a food intolerance does not involve an immune reaction. Rather, it produces unpleasant symptoms as food is digested. These symptoms appear over a few hours rather than as soon as the food is swallowed or inhaled.</p><h3>Common airborne allergens</h3><p>Dust mites are common airborne allergens. These tiny bugs live in warm, damp, dusty places in your home and survive by eating dead skin cells. Their waste is a major cause of allergies and asthma.</p><div class="akh-series"><div class="row"><div class="col-md-12">
<figure><img src="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/akhassets/Common_airborne_allergens_EQUIP_ILL_EN.jpg" alt="Illustration of moulds, dust mites, pollens, pet dander and cockroaches" /> </figure>
<p>Other common airborne allergens include:</p><ul><li>pollen from trees, weeds and other plants</li><li>mould</li><li>pet dander (dead skin cells from pets)</li><li>cockroaches</li></ul></div></div></div><h3>Other common allergens</h3><ul><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=800&language=English">Insect bites or stings</a></li><li>Medicines</li></ul> | <h2>Key points</h2><ul><li>An allergy is the immune system’s over-reaction to a substance that is generally not harmful to most people.</li><li>If you suspect that your child has an allergy, an allergist can do tests to find out exactly what is causing the allergy and discuss with you how to manage these allergies.</li><li>To reduce your child’s exposure to airborne allergens, have a pet-free home and remove carpeting.</li><li>To manage a food allergy, make sure your child avoids all foods they are allergic to, learns how to read food labels and ask about the ingredients in served food.</li><li>If your child has a severe allergy, tell their teachers and other caregivers.</li><li>If you suspect your child is having an anaphylactic reaction, give epinephrine (if available) and call 911. </li></ul> | | <h2>Signs and symptoms of allergies</h2><p>Allergic reactions will vary from child to child and from allergen to allergen. Where you live can also affect the type and severity of the allergy.</p><h3>Symptoms for food allergens and insect bites or stings</h3><p>Your child’s response to a food allergy or insect bite will depend on how sensitive they are to that food or bug. Symptoms can include:</p><ul><li>itchy mouth and throat when food is swallowed</li><li>skin rashes, such as
<a href="/Article?contentid=789&language=English">hives</a> (raised, red, itchy bumps)</li><li>sneezing</li><li>itchy, runny or stuffy nose</li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=782&language=English">conjunctivitis</a> (red, swollen eyes) or itchy, watery eyes</li></ul><h3>Symptoms for airborne allergens</h3><p>Common symptoms with airborne allergens may include:</p><ul><li>sneezing</li><li>itchy nose or throat</li><li>stuffy or runny nose</li><li>red, itchy and/or watery eyes</li><li>headaches or plugged ears</li></ul><h3>Symptoms of severe allergic reactions</h3><p>Anaphylaxis is the most severe type of allergic reaction. Even exposure to small amounts of allergens can trigger anaphylaxis in some allergic children.</p><p>The signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis may include sudden onset of:</p><ul><li><a href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=789&language=English">hives</a>, itching, redness of the skin</li><li>swollen eyes, lips, tongue or face</li><li>difficulty breathing, tightness of the throat or difficulty swallowing</li><li>abdominal (belly) pain, nausea, <a href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=746&language=English">vomiting</a> or sudden onset of <a href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=7&language=English">diarrhea</a></li><li>coughing</li><li>stuffy and/or runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing</li><li><a href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=779&language=English">fainting</a>, confusion, lightheadedness or dizziness</li><li>rapid or irregular heartbeats</li><li>cold, clammy, sweaty skin</li><li>voice changes</li></ul><p>Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical care. Give <a href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/article?contentid=130&language=English">epinephrine</a> (if available) and call an ambulance.</p> | <h2>What causes an allergic reaction?</h2><p>Allergens may come in contact with the skin or be breathed in, eaten or injected.</p><p>When the body detects an allergen, it sends a signal to the immune system to produce antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). Those antibodies cause certain cells in the body to release chemicals called histamines. Histamines travel through the bloodstream to fight the invading substance or allergen.</p><p>Your child’s allergic reaction depends on which part of their body has been exposed to the allergen. Most commonly, allergic reactions affect the eyes, inside of the nose, throat, lungs or skin.</p> | | <h2>What your child's doctor can do for allergies</h2><p>If you suspect your child has an allergy, they should see an allergist. This is a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating allergies.</p><p>To identify your child's allergy, the allergist will usually:</p><ul><li>examine your child</li><li>ask for your child’s allergy history</li><li>ask for a description of your child’s allergic symptoms</li></ul><p>Your child might then have skin tests, blood tests, a chest X-ray, a lung function test or an exercise tolerance test. The allergist will explain these tests to you.</p><p>When the tests are done, the allergist will use the results to make a diagnosis. You and your child will meet the allergist at a later date to discuss them.</p><h3>How to prepare for an allergy test</h3><p>Your child may need to stop using certain medications for a period of time before an allergy test. These medications may include antihistamines. Always ask your doctor if your child should stop taking medications before the visit.</p> | | | <h2>Taking care of your child with an allergy at home</h2><p>If your child has a severe allergy, your doctor might give you a prescription for an epinephrine auto-injector such as an EpiPen or Allerject. Your doctor can show you how and when to use the auto-injector. You or your child may need to carry one at all times.</p><p>As much as possible, try to prevent allergic reactions by reducing your child's contact with the allergen(s). The steps you take depend on the substance to which your child is allergic. Discuss this with your child's doctor.</p> | <h2>How to prevent allergic reactions</h2><h3>Food allergens</h3><p>Your child must avoid all foods they are allergic to. Some children may outgrow their allergies, but others may have to avoid the allergen for life.</p><p>Avoiding a food allergen can be difficult. As a result, many children unintentionally eat food they are allergic to.</p><p>If your child has a food allergy, teach them to be aware of the foods to avoid and all the possible names of those foods. You and your child should learn to read labels on food packaging and ask questions about served food. Your child should also know why it is important to look for an allergen in ingredients.</p><p>It is also important to tell all caregivers about your child’s allergy and any foods or drinks your child must avoid.</p><h3>Airborne allergens</h3><ul><li>Have a pet-free home. Or if you have a pet, keep it out of the child’s room and bathe it regularly.</li><li>Remove carpets and rugs from the home, especially from your child’s bedroom. Hard floor surfaces do not collect dust as much as carpets do. If you have carpeting, you should try to vacuum at least once a week.</li><li>Reduce the relative humidity in the home.</li><li>Wash bedding in hot water. This will help reduce dust mites.</li><li>Control contact with outdoor pollen by closing windows in peak seasons. Use an air conditioning system with a small-particle filter.</li><li>Get rid of items in the home that collect dust. These include heavy drapes or old, unclean furniture.</li><li>Clean your home often. Change your home furnace filter regularly as recommended.</li><li>Seal pillows and mattresses if your child is allergic to dust mites.</li><li>Keep bathrooms and other mould-prone areas clean and dry.</li></ul> | <h2>When to get medical help for an allergic reaction</h2><p>Call 911 or take your child to the nearest emergency department if they have anaphylaxis. Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:</p><ul><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=789&language=English">hives</a>, itching, redness of the skin</li><li>swollen eyes, lips, tongue or face</li><li>difficulty breathing, tightness of the throat or difficulty swallowing</li><li>abdominal (belly) pain, nausea, vomiting or sudden onset of diarrhea</li><li>coughing</li><li>stuffy and/or runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing</li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=779&language=English">fainting</a>, confusion, lightheadedness or dizziness</li><li>rapid or irregular heartbeats</li><li>cold, clammy, sweaty skin</li><li>voice changes</li></ul><p>Your child should go to the nearest emergency department even if they have received epinephrine, as the symptoms can start again after the epinephrine is given.</p> | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | <h2>Virtual care services for children<br></h2><p>Boomerang Health was opened by SickKids to provide communities in Ontario with greater access to community-based services for children and adolescents. For more information on virtual care services in Ontario to support a child with allergies, visit <a href="http://www.boomeranghealth.com/services/allergy/">Boomerang Health</a> powered by SickKids.<br></p> | | <img alt="" src="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/allergies.jpg" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | | | | | | allergies | allergies | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/allergies.jpg | | Discover different types of allergens, the signs and symptoms of allergies, causes, and what to do if your child has an allergic reaction. | Main | | |
| COVID-19 | COVID-19 | COVID-19 | C | English | Infectious Diseases | Child (0-12 years);Teen (13-18 years) | NA | Immune system | Conditions and diseases | Adult (19+)
Caregivers | NA | | 2020-03-26T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 0 | 0 | 0 | | Landing Page | Learning Hub | <p>Learn about COVID-19 and how to talk to and support your family. Also find resources such as videos and audio meditations to help you cope.</p> | <p>This hub includes resources on COVID-19 and how to help you cope. There are resources on how to support your child's mental health and general wellbeing through physical activity, sleep, nutrition and learning. Also included are videos and audio meditations to help you cope with stressful thoughts and experiences that occur throughout your day.<br></p>
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h2 class="panel-title">COVID-19 information</h2></div><div class="panel-body list-group" style="display:none;"><p>Find information about COVID-19 from AboutKidsHealth.</p></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3872&language=English">Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) </a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3907&language=English">Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html">Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) (Public Health Agency of Canada)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3863&language=English">COVID-19: Information for parents of immunocompromised children and children with chronic medical conditions</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3870&language=English&hub=COVID-19">COVID-19: Information for parents of children with congenital heart disease</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://covid19healthliteracyproject.com/#languages">COVID-19 fact sheets in 34 different languages (Harvard Health Publishing)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/diseases-and-conditions/infectious-diseases/respiratory-diseases/novel-coronavirus/public-resources">COVID-19 public resources (Public Health Ontario)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.pcmch.on.ca/covid-19-resources-for-children-youth-and-families/">COVID-19 resources for children, youth, and families (Provincial Council for Maternal and Child Health)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/the-2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19">The 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Caring for Kids)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus">The 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Ontario Ministry of Health)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/9Ay4u7OYOhA">6 steps to prevent COVID-19 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)</a></li></ol></div><div class="panel panel-primary"><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h2 class="panel-title">COVID-19 vaccines</h2></div><div class="panel-body list-group" style="display:none;"><p>Find information about the COVID-19 vaccines that are available in Canada and about their safety and effectiveness.</p></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3937&language=English">COVID-19 vaccines</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/covid19-industry/drugs-vaccines-treatments/vaccines.html">Vaccines for COVID-19: Authorized vaccines</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://covid-19.ontario.ca/covid-19-vaccines-ontario">COVID-19 vaccines for Ontario</a></li></ol></div><div class="panel panel-primary"><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h2 class="panel-title">COVID-19 testing</h2></div><div class="panel-body list-group" style="display:none;"><p>Find information that will help you and your child prepare or either a saliva test or a nasopharyngeal swab.</p></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/COVID-19%20Testing%20How%20to%20prepare%20and%20comfort%20your%20child.pdf">COVID-19 Testing: How to prepare and comfort your child</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/Ru-vFZdImes">Saliva testing (video)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/nO1L-oYo9TA">Nasopharyngeal (NP) swab (video)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3908&language=English">After your child’s COVID-19 test</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/8d9SPC7T6KM">After your child's COVID-19 test - Virtual discharge (video)</a></li></ol></div><div class="panel panel-primary"><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h2 class="panel-title">Talking to your child about COVID-19</h2></div><div class="panel-body list-group" style="display:none;"><p>Helpful resources that provide information about how to explain and talk to your child about COVID-19. </p></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3866&language=English">How to talk to your child about COVID-19</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="http://hollandbloorview.ca/services/family-workshops-resources/family-resource-centre/explaining-covid-19-kids">Explaining COVID-19 and Coronavirus to children (Holland Bloorview)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.cps.ca/en/blog-blogue/how-can-we-talk-to-kids-about-covid-19">How can we talk to kids about COVID-19? Be “realistically reassuring” (Canadian Pediatric Society)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/how-to-talk-to-your-kids-about-coronavirus#.XmuZ3QV_gax.twitter">How to Talk to Your Kids About Coronavirus (PBS)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3869&language=English">Supporting your child with a neurodevelopmental disorder through the COVID-19 crisis</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.cmho.org/blog/blog-news/6519918-talking-to-your-anxious-child-about-covid-19">Talking to your anxious child about COVID-19 (Children's Mental Health Ontario)</a></li></ol></div><div class="panel panel-primary"><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h2 class="panel-title">Coping</h2></div><div class="panel-body list-group" style="display:none;"><p>Information on how to help your child cope with stress during the COVID-19 crisis and how to help them deal with separation from family and friend. </p></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3868&language=English">Coping with separation from family and friends during COVID-19</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3882&language=English">COVID-19: Frequently asked questions</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3883&language=English">COVID-19: Well-being and mental health resources</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3888&language=English">Stressed adults and anxious young children: Supporting infants, toddlers and preschoolers through COVID-19</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3867&language=English">Is my child or adolescent feeling stressed about COVID-19?</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/disaster">Helping children and teens cope with stressful public events (Caring for Kids)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.cps.ca/en/blog-blogue/how-to-help-youth-tackle-the-blues-during-covid-19">How to help youth tackle the blues during COVID-19 and #physicaldistancing (Canadian Pediatric Society)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://afirm.fpg.unc.edu/supporting-individuals-autism-through-uncertain-times">Supporting individuals with autism through uncertain times (Autism Focused Intervention Resources & Modules)</a></li></ol></div><div class="panel panel-primary"><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h2 class="panel-title">Mental health</h2></div><div class="panel-body list-group" style="display:none;"><p>Taking care of your mental health during difficult and stressful times is important. Learn more about anxiety and depression.</p></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=18&language=English">Anxiety: Overview</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3810&language=English">Anxiety and anxiety disorders</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/Anxiety%20Individual%20handout_Eng%2004_03_2020_v2.pdf">CARD: Coping with your own fears and anxiety</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/Anxiety%20caregiver%20handout_Eng%2004_03_2020.pdf">CARD: Helping your child cope with anxiety</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=19&language=English">Depression: Overview</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-health-and-covid-19">Mental health and the COVID-19 pandemic (CAMH)</a></li></ol></div><div class="panel panel-primary"><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h2 class="panel-title">Parenting</h2></div><div class="panel-body list-group" style="display:none;"><p>Find some helpful information on parenting during the COVID-19 crisis. </p></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/jwwwF9KQ7CQ">Parenting during COVID-19 and beyond (podcast)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3935&language=English">Keeping your child active during the COVID-19 pandemic</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/health_information_on_the_internet">A parent’s guide to health information on the Internet (Caring for Kids)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.cps.ca/en/blog-blogue/covid-youth-and-substance-use-critical-messages-for-youth-and-families">COVID, youth, and substance use: Critical messages for youth and families (Canadian Pediatric Society)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.cps.ca/en/blog-blogue/parenting-during-covid-19-a-new-frontier">Parenting during COVID-19: A new frontier (Canadian Pediatric Society)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.sickkids.ca/en/news/archive/2021/updated-covid19-school-operation-guidance-document-released/">SickKids - Updated guidance for school operation during the pandemic</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://hollandbloorview.ca/sites/default/files/2020-07/HB-BackToSchool-Recommendations.pdf">Return to school recommendations for children with special needs (Holland Bloorview)</a></li><li><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h3>Learning</h3></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=651&language=English&hub=COVID-19">Reading milestones</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=1903&language=English&hub=COVID-19">Reading: How to help early and struggling readers</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3871&language=English&hub=COVID-19">Writing milestones</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=1881&language=English&hub=COVID-19">Visual-motor skills: How to foster in children</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=722&language=English&hub=COVID-19">Mathematics milestones</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=721&language=English&hub=COVID-19">Mathematics: How to help your pre-school and school-aged child</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=649&language=English&hub=COVID-19">Spatial reasoning skills: How to foster in children</a></li></ol></li></ol></div><div class="panel panel-primary"><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h2 class="panel-title">Well-being</h2></div><div class="panel-body list-group" style="display:none;"><p>Find out how physical activity, a healthy sleep routine, screen time limits and balanced nutrition can boost your child's mental health and support them to achieve better academic success and help them through difficult times. </p></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h3>Handwashing</h3></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=1981&language=English">Hand hygiene</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/handwashing">Handwashing for parents and children (Caring for Kids)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=9&v=7PKwE1jIuws&feature=emb_title">Protect don’t infect (CHEO)</a></li></ol></li><li><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h3>Sleep</h3></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=645&language=English">Sleep: Benefits and recommended amounts</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3632&language=English">Sleep and your mental health: Overview</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3633&language=English">Sleep and mental health: Sorting out your sleep routine</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=646&language=English">How to help your child get a good night's sleep</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=647&language=English">How to help your teen get a good night's sleep</a></li></ol></li><li><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h3>Physical activity</h3></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3783&language=English">Physical activity and mental health: Overview</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3784&language=English">Physical activity and mental health: Types of physical activity</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=641&language=English">Physical activity: Benefits of exercise for health and wellbeing</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=642&language=English">Physical activity: Guidelines for children and teens</a></li></ol></li><li><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h3>Nutrition</h3></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3773&language=English">Nutrition and mental health: The basics of a healthy diet</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=639&language=English">How a balanced diet and healthy eating habits can help your child's mental health</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3774&language=English">Nutrition and mental health: Developing positive eating habits</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=1464&language=English&hub=COVID-19">Meal ideas for school-aged children, tweens and teens</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=638&language=English">Healthy eating for teens</a></li></ol></li><li><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h3>Screen time and social media</h3></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=643&language=English">Screen time: Overview</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3775&language=English">Screen time for teens: Overview</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=644&language=English">How to help your child set healthy screen time limits</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3776&language=English">Setting limits and staying safe with screen time</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3894&language=English">Supporting healthy and responsible screen use during COVID-19</a></li></ol></li><li><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h3>Stress and resilience</h3></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3777&language=English">Stress and health</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://teens.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3778&language=English">How to become more resilient</a></li></ol></li></ol></div><div class="panel panel-primary"><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h2 class="panel-title">Tools, videos and resources for you and your child</h2></div><div class="panel-body list-group" style="display:none;"><p>Find helpful resources including handouts, videos and other resources about COVID-19.</p></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/Anxiety%20Individual%20handout_Eng%2004_03_2020_v2.pdf">CARD: Coping with your own fears and anxiety</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/Anxiety%20caregiver%20handout_Eng%2004_03_2020.pdf">CARD: Helping your child cope with anxiety</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBkA2ZTUnyI&feature=youtu.be">Dr. Cheddar chats with Dr. Ronni from SickKids (video)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/nO1L-oYo9TA">Nasopharyngeal (NP) swab (video)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r51gYrDzpHQ">Physical distancing (video)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=9&v=7PKwE1jIuws&feature=emb_title">Protect don’t infect (CHEO)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.brainson.org/shows/2020/03/10/understanding-coronavirus-and-how-germs-spread-for-kids?fbclid=IwAR21Y_n6fsy33QD2s07In2Q892xQoI5OEFMMZ5vcMyVoLdkH8tv4yZjaZsc">Understanding coronavirus and how germs spread (Brains On!)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://kidshelpphone.ca/get-info/were-here-for-you-during-covid-19-novel-coronavirus/">We’re here for you during COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) (Kids Help Phone)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNinywG7BtY">What is personal protective equipment (PPE) (video)</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/gqeyRuvF9WU">Your virtual video visit overview</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3889&language=English">Virtual care at SickKids</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.aboutkidshealth.ca/Article?contentid=3910&language=English">Virtual care: How to accurately measure your child’s height and weight at home</a></li></ol></div><div class="panel panel-primary"><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h2 class="panel-title">Videos to support sleep and mindfulness</h2></div><div class="panel-body list-group" style="display:none;"><p>Find videos that will help you prepare for sleep and for when you need a moment of peace, to understand your situation more clearly and coping with stressful thoughts and experiences.</p></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h3>Sleep video</h3></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/2fbaoqkY0Qk">Sleep: A bed time story</a></li></ol></li><li><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h3>Mindfulness videos</h3></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/nQdM_Cku9pA">A moment of peace</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/cFCiUlFKuO4">Two wings to fly</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/jaNAwy3XsfI">Being with all of your experiences</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/0QXmmP4psbA">You are not your thoughts</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/Ty93GRPplJo">Dealing with difficult moments</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/QTsUEOUaWpY">Everyday mindfulness</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/GgBVIZAEQqU">STOP for mindfulness</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYcLfBf-T9c">Stress and thinking: The mind/body connection</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/EWzDHN7Jdg8">Dealing with flares: Controlling the controllables</a></li></ol></li></ol></div><div class="panel panel-primary"><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h2 class="panel-title">Audio meditations for mindfulness and coping</h2></div><div class="panel-body list-group" style="display:none;"><p>Listen to these meditations in a quiet, comfortable spot to practise mindfulness, learn about ways to cope with physical and emotional pain or discomfort and to help you with stress throughout your day.</p></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h3>Mindfulness</h3></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/3cevA6EjCbE">5 senses</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/gqMu6kFfQcE">Dropping the anchor</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/O5F3-Xw2XPE">The mountain</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/84Tr734KXO8">Dilute the yuck</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/YnL-hjXo4EQ">Self-compassion</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/fZdw6wm3A3E">Body scan</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/jc64ap852FU">Circle of gratitude</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/LMu-r-KZ_l8">Tree meditation</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/xcO8IIeV12M">Mindfulness of thought</a></li></ol></li><li><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h3>Coping with physical and emotional pain</h3></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/84Tr734KXO8">Dilute the yuck</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/3IK7yWuEs3k">Visualize your pain</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/UbTyPgHf8z4">Soften, soothe, allow</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/NN7fz8lMTIM">Ice cube</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/e0JMtabUVvQ">Comfort your pain</a></li></ol></li><li><div class="panel-heading clickable">
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<i class="mdi mdi-chevron-down"></i></span><h3>Finding calm/coping with stress</h3></div><ol class="list-group" style="display:none;"><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/RQJNdVtHxlY">Time for rest</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/RpHvQkHYrZ0">Allowing rest</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/gqMu6kFfQcE">Dropping the anchor</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/EnrNtaMskik">Breathing meditation</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/CMcx9tJ70rA">Joy</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/EL_fvAepwv8">Equal breathing</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/QSf0JS0O16Q">Key word guided meditation</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/Tsi2np8xtVY">Bell meditation</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/263e093H5eM">Bell sounds</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/Jqu3SOEKtvE">Progressive muscle relaxation with tension</a></li><li class="list-group-item"><a class="overview-links" href="https://youtu.be/4ilNITE3-fE">Relaxation with imagery</a></li></ol></li></ol></div>
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<p>Above is our COVID-focused playlist. See "Tools, videos and resources for you and your child" in the menu above for more videos or visit the
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/Aboutkidshealth">AboutKidHealth YouTube channel</a>.</p></div> | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/iStock-1157093074.jpg | COVID-19,COVID19 | COVID-19 | | | | Main | | |
| Celiac disease | Celiac disease | Celiac disease | C | English | Gastrointestinal | Baby (1-12 months);Toddler (13-24 months);Preschooler (2-4 years);School age child (5-8 years);Pre-teen (9-12 years);Teen (13-18 years) | Small Intestine | Small intestine | Conditions and diseases | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/akhassets/IMD_celiac_disease_EN.jpg | 2021-03-15T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 9.20000000000000 | 56.6000000000000 | 1802.00000000000 | | Health (A-Z) - Conditions | Health A-Z | <p>Celiac disease is a lifelong condition. Learn about the symptoms of celiac disease, how celiac disease is diagnosed, how it is treated and how gluten affects people with celiac disease.</p> | <h2>What is celiac disease?</h2><p>Celiac disease can affect people of all ages anywhere in the world. In people with celiac disease, any contact with gluten (a family of food proteins) triggers a reaction from the body’s defense (immune) system. This immune response to gluten causes damage to the gut (small intestine) lining. This is why celiac disease is called an autoimmune disease.</p><p>A healthy small intestine is lined with tiny finger-like projections, called villi, that stick up from the surface. Villi increase the area available to absorb nutrients from food. When children with celiac disease are exposed to gluten, the resulting immune reaction damages villi, which become flat. As a result:</p><ul><li>This may affect the absorption of nutrients. This is called malabsorption.</li><li>A lack of nutrients may affect growth and development.</li><li>It also may cause symptoms of celiac disease, such as
<a href="/Article?contentid=7&language=English"> diarrhea</a>, constipation and stomach pain.</li></ul>
<figure class="asset-c-100"><span class="asset-image-title">Celiac disease: Villi damage</span><img src="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/akhassets/IMD_celiac_disease_EN.jpg" alt="Inside view of small intestine, comparing behaviours of nutrients in intestine with healthy villi to one with celiac disease" /><figcaption class="asset-image-caption">A healthy small intestine is lined with finger-like projections (villi) which help the intestine to absorb nutrients. With celiac disease, the villi become damaged and flattened. This may affect the absorption of nutrients.</figcaption></figure>
<h2>What is gluten?</h2><p>Gluten is the common name of a family of proteins found in grains that cause the intestinal damage in celiac disease. Gliadin and glutenin are the two main gluten proteins.</p><p>Gluten is found in:</p><ul><li>all forms of wheat (including durum, semolina, spelt, kamut, einkorn and farro)</li><li>wheat hybrids (including triticale which is a mix of wheat and rye)</li><li>rye</li><li>barley </li></ul> | | <h2>Key points</h2><ul><li>Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition in which any contact with gluten (a family of food proteins) triggers a reaction from the body’s defense (immune) system.</li><li>Gluten is found in rye, barley, triticale and all forms of wheat.</li><li>In celiac disease, the lining of the small intestine is damaged by the immune system reaction. This means that it will be harder for your child’s body to get nutrients from foods.</li><li>Common symptoms of celiac disease include diarrhea, constipation, tiredness, headaches and poor growth. Some people experience no symptoms at all.</li><li>The only treatment for celiac disease is following a strict gluten-free diet for life. Your child should never start a gluten-free diet before your doctor confirms the diagnosis.</li></ul> | | <h2>Signs and symptoms of celiac disease</h2><p>Some people with celiac disease may have no symptoms at all.</p><p>However, many people with celiac disease experience a range of symptoms. When a person with celiac disease is exposed to gluten, they may have trouble with their gastrointestinal system, malabsorption-related issues and other symptoms. Below are some common symptoms of celiac disease. Some people may only have one of these symptoms, while others may experience multiple symptoms.</p>
<a href="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/Poster_celiac_symptoms_ENG.pdf"><figure class="asset-small"><img alt="Download celiac symptoms poster PDF" src="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/akhassets/celiac_symptoms_PDFdownload.jpg" /> </figure> </a>
<h3>Gastrointestinal system symptoms</h3><p>When a person with celiac disease is exposed to gluten, they may experience one or more of the following gastrointestinal symptoms:</p><ul><li>tummy pain and/or cramps</li><li><a href="/article?contentid=7&language=english">diarrhea</a></li><li>
<a href="/article?contentid=6&language=english">constipation</a></li><li>
<a href="/article?contentid=822&language=english">excessive gas</a></li><li>nausea</li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=746&language=English">vomiting</a></li><li>bloating of the abdomen (tummy)</li><li>abdominal distension (expansion)</li><li>decrease in appetite</li></ul><h3>Malabsorption-related symptoms</h3><p>They may also experience one or more symptoms that are not related to the gastrointestinal system but are due to nutrient malabsorption. These may include:</p><ul><li>tiredness (fatigue)</li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=841&language=English">anemia</a> (low blood haemoglobin from iron malabsorption)</li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=1453&language=English">vitamin or mineral </a>deficiencies (e.g. iron, vitamins <a href="/Article?contentid=1447&language=English">D</a> and <a href="/Article?contentid=1446&language=English">B12</a>.)</li><li>poor growth (not as tall as expected)</li><li>weight loss or poor weight gain</li><li>delayed puberty</li></ul><h3>Brain</h3><p>A person with celiac disease may experience one or more symptoms affecting their mental health including:</p><ul><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=29&language=English">headaches</a> or migraines</li><li>difficulty concentrating</li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=19&language=English">depression</a></li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=18&language=English">anxiety</a></li><li>mood swings and irritability</li></ul><h3>Skin</h3><p>People with celiac disease may also experience skin conditions including:</p><ul><li>skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis)</li><li>brittle nails</li></ul><h3>Mouth</h3><p>Symptoms of celiac disease that affect the mouth include:</p><ul><li>mouth sores</li><li>tooth enamel defects</li></ul><h3>Reproductive</h3><p>Both males and females with celiac disease may experience issues related to reproduction including:</p><ul><li>infertility (difficulty conceiving children, in both men and women)</li><li>miscarriage</li><li>menstrual irregularities</li></ul><h3>Body</h3><p>Other celiac disease symptoms that could affect parts of the body include:</p><ul><li>low bone density, including osteopenia (mild) or
<a href="/Article?contentid=948&language=English">osteoporosis </a> (more serious bone density problem)</li><li>joint pain</li><li>tiredness (fatigue)</li><li>liver and biliary tract disorders</li></ul> | <h2>Causes, risk factors and prevalence of celiac disease</h2><p>Celiac disease affects about 1 in 100 Canadians (roughly 350,000 people). It occurs in people all over the world, at any age and from all backgrounds. People develop celiac disease because of a combination of a genetic susceptibility and environmental factors. </p><p>People with a relative with celiac disease or who have certain genetic conditions (such as
<a href="/Article?contentid=9&language=English">Down syndrome</a> or
<a href="/Article?contentid=869&language=English">Turner syndrome</a>) are at higher risk of developing celiac disease.</p><p>People who already have one autoimmune condition, such as
<a href="/Article?contentid=1719&language=English">type 1 diabetes</a>, are at higher risk for developing other autoimmune conditions, such as celiac disease.</p> | | <h2>How celiac disease is diagnosed</h2><h3>Blood tests</h3><p>Doctors can order <a href="/article?contentid=36&language=english">blood tests</a> to screen for celiac disease. These blood tests look for immune proteins (called auto-antibodies) that the body has made in response to gluten in people with celiac disease.</p><p>The possible blood tests include:</p><ul><li>Anti-tissue transglutaminase (TTG) antibodies</li><li>Anti-deamidated gliadin peptide (DGP) antibodies</li><li>Anti-endomysial antibodies (EMA)</li></ul><p>Your doctor does not need to order all of these blood tests to screen for celiac disease. </p><p>Depending on the results, your doctor or health-care provider will talk to you about further testing to confirm celiac disease. </p><h3>Upper endoscopy</h3><p>An
<a href="/Article?contentid=2472&language=English">upper endoscopy</a> may help confirm the diagnosis. An upper endoscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to see the upper part of your child’s gastrointestinal system (from the mouth to the top part of the small intestine). Never start your child on a gluten-free diet before you know for sure whether an upper endoscopy is needed to confirm the diagnosis of celiac disease.</p>
<figure class="asset-c-80"><span class="asset-image-title">Upper endoscopy</span><img src="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/akhassets/IMD_endoscope_EN.jpg" alt="The esophagus, stomach and duodenum are identified with endoscope inserted through the mouth and esophagus into the stomach" /><figcaption class="asset-image-caption">During an upper endoscopy, a thin flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the mouth and down the esophagus to look at the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (top part of the small intestine).</figcaption> </figure>
<h3>Biopsy of the small intestine</h3><p>During an upper endoscopy, small pieces of tissue (biopsies) of the small intestine are taken; they will be examined under a microscope. If your child has celiac disease, the biopsy will show that the villi are damaged and flattened in the sample from the small intestine.</p><p>Never start your child on a gluten-free diet without first getting a confirmed diagnosis of celiac disease. If a biopsy is done after your child starts a gluten-free diet, your child’s villi may look normal because they will have had a chance to heal since the immune response will have stopped. The biopsy may give a false negative result, which means that the result is negative even though your child has celiac disease.</p><p>Talk to your child’s doctor for more information about screening for celiac disease.</p> | <h2>Treatment of celiac disease</h2><p>Celiac disease is a life-long condition. There is no cure or medication for celiac disease. The only treatment is a strict gluten-free diet for life. The diet will help with the symptoms and will keep your child healthy.</p><p>Even if your child has no symptoms, once diagnosed your child must follow a strict gluten-free diet for life for treatment of the disease. This means they must remove all sources of gluten from their diet. There are some obvious sources of gluten such as breads, pasta and baked goods. There are also many foods where gluten is hidden, such as soups, salad dressings and ice creams.</p><p>Some non-food products may also contain gluten, such as hand creams, medications or arts and crafts supplies like playdough. It is important for your child to limit skin contact with <a href="/Article?contentid=956&language=English">gluten-containing products</a> as it is possible for people with celiac disease to transfer gluten from their skin to their mouth and gut when they are in contact with gluten, which is not safe. Contact with gluten can also trigger skin reactions in some people with celiac disease.</p><h3>Starting treatment: The gluten-free diet</h3><p>Once gluten is removed from your child’s diet, the small intestine will start to heal. Your child should start to feel better and symptoms should improve after about six months of being strictly gluten-free. </p><h3>Maintaining treatment: Sticking to a gluten-free diet for life</h3><p>Do not stop the gluten-free diet if your child’s symptoms improve. Your child is feeling better because the gluten-free diet is working. If your child stops the gluten-free diet, the villi in the small intestine will become damaged and flattened again, even if they have no symptoms. Any previous symptoms will also return if your child does not follow a strict gluten-free diet.
</p><p>If your child’s symptoms of celiac disease do not improve after six months, contact your child's doctor.</p><p>These
<a href="/Article?contentid=957&language=English">tips and resources</a> can help you and your child stick to a strict gluten-free diet.</p><h3>What happens without a gluten-free diet?</h3><p>Gluten is toxic to people with celiac disease because it triggers an immune reaction even if your child shows no symptoms.</p><p>If your child continues to be exposed to gluten, celiac disease may lead to future health problems including:</p><ul><li>low bone density (osteopenia or osteoporosis)</li><li>some small bowel cancers</li><li>other autoimmune diseases (for example thyroid problems)</li><li>
<a href="/Article?contentid=1453&language=English">vitamins and mineral</a> deficiencies because of malabsorption</li><li>
<a href="/prematurebabies?topic=prematurebabiesabout">premature delivery</a> if pregnant</li></ul><p>If your child follows a strict gluten-free diet for life, their chances of getting these conditions become the same as the general healthy population.</p><p>Children with celiac disease that is not treated are at special risk. Malnutrition during childhood can have significant effects on growth and development. This is why it is so important for your child to remain on a strict gluten-free diet at all times.</p> | | <h2>Monitoring your child’s symptoms</h2><p>After the diagnosis, no other upper endoscopy is usually needed. Your child will have more blood tests that check anti-TTG antibody levels. As your child continues a strict gluten-free diet, their antibody levels should lower to normal levels. This may take up to 2 years. High antibody levels tell the doctor that your child was probably exposed to gluten.</p><p>Your child’s doctor will also make sure that your child is growing well. If your child had symptoms at the time of diagnosis, they should improve while on a strict gluten-free diet.</p> | | <h2>When to see a doctor</h2>
<p>See your child’s doctor if:</p>
<ul>
<li>your child’s symptoms remain after more than six months of following a strict gluten-free diet</li>
<li>your child’s symptoms worsen</li>
</ul>
<p>Your child’s doctor may refer you to a dietitian. A dietitian can give you more advice about celiac disease, how to plan a gluten-free diet, and how to get a balance of nutrients while following a gluten-free diet.<br></p> | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | May is Celiac Awareness Month. Learn about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, and how gluten affects people with celiac disease. | Main | | |
| Learning disabilities: Overview | Learning disabilities: Overview | Learning disabilities: Overview | L | English | Developmental | Preschooler (2-4 years);School age child (5-8 years);Pre-teen (9-12 years);Teen (13-18 years) | NA | NA | Healthy living and prevention | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | | 2020-03-03T05:00:00Z | | | | | | 12.9000000000000 | 27.1000000000000 | 1400.00000000000 | | Health (A-Z) - Conditions | Health A-Z | <p>A learning disability is when a child with age-appropriate intellectual abilities has significant challenges with reading, writing or math. Learn about learning disabilities, their symptoms, and how they are diagnosed and treated.</p> | <h2>What is a learning disability?</h2><p>All children find school hard sometimes, but learning disabilities are different. Children with learning disabilities have average to above average intellectual abilities, but experience considerable challenges with reading, writing, and/or math. These learning problems affect how they perform in school, and their achievements in these areas fall well below what is expected for children of their age, grade and intellectual abilities.</p><p>Learning disabilities range in severity and may affect a child’s:</p><ul><li>reading (decoding and comprehension)</li><li>written language (spelling and written expression)</li><li>mathematics (computation and application)</li></ul><p>If your child has age-appropriate intellectual abilities, but has difficulty with one or more of these learning-related skills, they may have a learning disability.</p><div class="asset-video">
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tALQxNuNip4" frameborder="0"></iframe><br></div><p>For more videos from SickKids experts in collaboration with Youngster, visit <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoKMd2cYwegtZX19uHdNLQA">Youngster on YouTube</a>.</p> | <h2>Types of learning disabilities</h2><p>There are many specific learning disabilities. The most common are reading, writing, and math disabilities.</p><h3>Reading disabilities</h3><p><a href="/Article?contentid=3859&language=English">Reading disabilities</a> may include problems with:</p><ul><li>Phonological processing—the ability to break up words into sounds</li><li>Reading fluency or reading speed</li><li>Reading comprehension</li></ul><h3>Writing disabilities</h3><p><a href="/Article?contentid=3860&language=English">Writing disabilities</a> may include problems with:</p><ul><li>Composition: generating or organizing ideas</li><li>Spelling</li><li>Grammar</li><li>Handwriting</li></ul><h3>Math disabilities</h3><p><a href="/Article?contentid=3861&language=English">Math disabilities</a> may involve problems with:</p><ul><li>Grouping objects</li><li>Counting objects</li><li>Recognizing number symbols</li><li>Copying numbers</li><li>Using arithmetic signs correctly</li><li>Understanding math terms and operations</li><li>Following sequences of math steps</li><li>Learning multiplication tables</li><li>Decoding written problems into math symbols</li></ul> | <h2>Key points</h2><ul><li>A child with a learning disability has significant challenges with reading, writing, and/or math.</li><li>Learning disabilities are often diagnosed with a psychoeducational assessment. An assessment can be done through your child’s school or privately.</li><li>Children may be supported with accommodations and/or interventions.</li></ul> | | <h2>Early warning signs of possible learning disabilities</h2><p>It is important to be aware of the early signs of learning disabilities. Early intervention may allow your child to catch up to their peers. Parents are the key to the early identification of their child’s learning disability.</p><p>Most learning disabilities are identified years after a child has started school, usually by the third grade. However, there are many warning signs that appear before a child enters school. Parents are in the best position to notice these early signs and get their child help.</p><p>Children who have speech and language difficulties before starting school are more likely to experience learning disabilities later in their development. These language difficulties are called communication disorders, which involve problems with different aspects of spoken language. These can include:</p><ul><li>Trouble recognizing and producing speech sounds (poor <a href="/Article?contentid=1896&language=English">phonological awareness</a>)</li><li>A lack of speech fluency, meaning that words do not come effortlessly</li><li>Poor communication skills</li><li>Difficulty understanding others</li></ul><h3>Speech and language difficulties at an early age</h3><p>Signs that your child may be having speech and language difficulties include:</p><ul><li>Few spoken words by two years of age</li><li>Indistinct, garbled speech after three years of age</li><li>Trouble learning words to songs or nursery rhymes</li><li>Difficulty expressing themselves in words after three years of age</li><li>Trouble recalling specific words; saying “thing” a lot</li><li>Using immature forms of grammar longer than expected (e.g., “I goed to the park”)</li><li>Mixing up word order in sentences</li><li>Trouble answering “why” questions, once in school</li><li>Trouble retelling familiar stories, once in school</li></ul><p>Stuttering and speech impediments are problems with speech that may not indicate a language problem or learning disability.</p><h3>Other signs of a learning disability</h3><p>Children who have learning disabilities may also experience behavioural or emotional symptoms. These can include:</p><ul><li>Seeming distracted or expressing boredom when participating in learning activities</li><li>Acting out at school or at home</li><li>Refusing to participate in learning activities or complete homework</li><li>Avoiding school or expressing anxiety/worry over attending school</li><li>Not finishing tests or assignments, or requiring more time to complete them</li><li>Displaying a low self-esteem</li></ul><p>These symptoms by themselves do not indicate a learning disability; but combined with academic challenges, they may warrant further investigation.</p> | <h2>What causes learning disabilities?</h2><p>The exact causes of learning disabilities are not known. However, genetics and environmental factors can increase your child’s risk of developing learning disabilities.</p><p>Learning disabilities are <strong>not</strong> caused by factors such as cultural or language differences, inadequate or inappropriate instruction, socio-economic status or lack of motivation, although these things can have an impact on the challenges that your child experiences.</p><h2>How common are learning disabilities?</h2><p>It is estimated that between 4-6% of Canadians have some form of learning disability.</p> | <h2>Will my child always have a learning disability?</h2><p>Although learning disabilities are life-long, the impact on everyday functioning can be reduced through intervention and support strategies. The severity of challenges varies from child to child. You may notice that your child displays some struggles as early as their pre-school years, or signs of a learning disability may only begin to become evident later in life.</p> | <h2>Diagnosis of learning disabilities</h2><p>Many schools in Canada require a learning disability diagnosis in order for a child to receive targeted supports and accommodations.</p><p>If you suspect your child might have a learning disability, it is important to share your concerns with your child’s teachers. They will be able to observe your child’s learning, and identify available resources and strategies to help improve your child’s skills. If the resources and strategies provided by the school do not help improve your child’s learning, your child might benefit from a formal assessment.</p><div class="asset-video">
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZbtV1QKBaFc" frameborder="0"></iframe>
<br></div><p>For more videos from SickKids experts in collaboration with Youngster, visit <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoKMd2cYwegtZX19uHdNLQA">Youngster on YouTube</a>.</p><h3>Psychoeducational assessment</h3><p>To diagnose a learning disability, a child needs to have a psychoeducational assessment completed. The psychologist or psychological associate will first rule out cognitive or physical developmental delays. If the child’s achievement in reading, writing, or math is much lower than expected for their age and education history, and they have age-appropriate intellectual abilities, the child may be diagnosed with a learning disability.</p><p>A psychoeducational assessment may be available through your child’s school, community mental health centres, psychologists in private practice, and sometimes through psychology departments at hospitals.</p> | <h2>Treatment for learning disabilities</h2><p>It is important to act early to support a child’s development. Learning disabilities can be supported with two main approaches—accommodations and interventions.</p><h3>Accommodations</h3><p>Accommodations are changes made in the classroom to help students support their areas of need. Accommodations can be as simple as having someone take notes, or they can be as sophisticated as having text-reading computer software. Accommodations can help some children succeed without direct intervention.</p><h3>Interventions</h3><p>Interventions help students address their areas of need. Interventions teach children specific skills and allow them to become more independent learners.</p><p>There are many programs to help children with learning disabilities. These can be provided through <a href="/Article?contentid=1890&language=English">special education or remediation</a>. Special education is provided within the school system through the classroom, and remediation can be provided within or outside the school through special education teachers or tutors.</p><p>The earlier that intervention is started, the more successful it will be.</p><h3>Individualized Education Plan</h3><p>Once your child has been assessed and has received a diagnosis of a learning disability, their school will often create an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) to support their learning. An IEP is a document that outlines your child’s strengths and needs, as well as the accommodations and modifications that their school will implement to help them. An IEP will be kept in your child’s school record and will be reviewed and updated each year to make sure that the interventions are addressing their current needs.</p> | | <h2>Living with a learning disability</h2><p>A learning disability is not anyone’s fault.</p><p>All children benefit from knowing about their personal learning style and gaining an appreciation for the fact that all people have different areas of strengths.</p><p>Here are some suggestions for how to work with your child at home if they have a learning disability:</p><ul><li>Foster curiosity. Wondering about the world helps keep a child’s love of learning.</li><li>Explore your child’s passions and interests.</li><li>Engage in non-academic skills, such as athletics, hobbies, music, or group activities.</li><li>Model how to cope with challenges.</li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | <h2>Resources</h2><p>Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario<br>
<a href="https://www.ldac-acta.ca/">https://www.ldac-acta.ca/</a></p><p>National Institute for Learning Development<br>
<a href="https://nildcanada.org/">https://nildcanada.org/</a><br></p><p>Boomerang Health</p><p><a href="http://www.boomeranghealth.com/">www.boomeranghealth.com</a><br></p><p>Boomerang Health was opened by SickKids to provide communities in Ontario with greater access to community-based services for children and adolescents. For more information on virtual care services in Ontario to support learning disabilities, visit <a href="http://www.boomeranghealth.com/services/child-psychology/">Boomerang Health</a> powered by SickKids.<br></p> | <h2>References</h2><p>Ontario Psychological Association Guidelines for Diagnosis and Assessment of Children, Adolescents, and Adults with Learning Disabilities: Consensus Statement and Supporting Documents (June 2018).
<em>Ontario Psychological Association</em>. Retrieved from <a href="http://www.psych.on.ca/getattachment/37646d71-1469-4731-a3c6-55a458a8238f/OPA-Guidelines-for-Diagnosis-and-Assessment-of-Learning-Disabilities-Sept-7-2018-%281%29-1.pdf">http://www.psych.on.ca/getattachment/37646d71-1469-4731-a3c6-55a458a8238f/OPA-Guidelines-for-Diagnosis-and-Assessment-of-Learning-Disabilities-Sept-7-2018-(1)-1.pdf</a>.</p><p>Official Definition of Learning Disabilities. <em>Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario</em>. Retrieved from <a href="http://www.ldao.ca/introduction-to-ldsadhd/what-are-lds/official-definition-of-lds/">http://www.ldao.ca/introduction-to-ldsadhd/what-are-lds/official-definition-of-lds/</a>.</p><p>Learning Disabilities Statistics. <em>Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario</em>. Retrieved from <a href="http://www.ldao.ca/introduction-to-ldsadhd/articles/about-lds/learning-disabilities-statistics/">http://www.ldao.ca/introduction-to-ldsadhd/articles/about-lds/learning-disabilities-statistics/</a>.</p><p>“Psychology Works” Fact Sheet: Learning Disabilities in Children (2015). <em>Canadian Psychological Association</em>. Retrieved from <a href="https://cpa.ca/docs/File/Publications/FactSheets/PsychologyWorksFactSheet_LearningDisabilitiesInChildren.pdf">https://cpa.ca/docs/File/Publications/FactSheets/PsychologyWorksFactSheet_LearningDisabilitiesInChildren.pdf</a>.</p> | <img alt="" src="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/learning_disabilities_introduction.jpg" style="BORDER:0px solid;" /> | | | | | | | | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/AKHAssets/Learning_disabilities-Overview.jpg | | A learning disability can be related to reading, writing or math. Learn about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of learning disabilities. | Main | | |
| Moles (acquired nevi) | Moles (acquired nevi) | Moles (acquired nevi) | M | English | Dermatology | Child (0-12 years);Teen (13-18 years) | Skin | Skin | Conditions and diseases | Caregivers
Adult (19+) | NA | https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/akhassets/PMD_nevus_EN.jpg | 2015-05-06T04:00:00Z | | | | | | 7.60000000000000 | 67.0000000000000 | 1150.00000000000 | | Health (A-Z) - Conditions | Health A-Z | <p>Moles are common skin growths that vary in size, colour and appearance. Find out how to tell the difference between benign and potentially harmful moles.</p> | <h2>What is a mole?</h2><p>A mole, or nevus, is a very common skin growth that occurs when skin colour cells, known as melanocytes, build up under the surface of the skin. Moles vary in size, colour and appearance and can also change over time. They are usually round, but they may also have an oval or jagged shape. Their colour ranges from pinkish red or light brown to dark brown or black.</p>
<figure class="asset-c-80">
<span class="asset-image-title">Healthy and benign moles</span>
<img src="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/akhassets/PMD_nevus_EN.jpg" alt="" /> </figure>
<p>Moles can be flat, bumpy or verrucous (like a wart). They usually occur in body parts that are frequently exposed to the sun, but they can be found anywhere, even inside the mouth, eyes and genitals.</p><p>Moles fall into two main groups:</p><ul><li>congenital melanocytic nevi – moles that your child has at birth or are noticed shortly after birth</li><li>acquired nevi – moles that develop later in life</li></ul> | | <h2>Key points</h2>
<ul>
<li>Moles occur when there is a build-up of melanocytes under the skin. This can happen as a result of sun exposure, high levels of growth hormones or chemotherapy.</li>
<li>Most moles are benign. They are symmetrical and have a regular border and even pigment throughout.</li>
<li>The ABCDE acronym can help you, your child or a dermatologist identify any potentially harmful moles.</li>
<li>To reduce the risk of harmful moles (melanoma), avoid too much sun exposure, use sunscreen and check your child’s skin at least once every six months.</li>
</ul> | | <h2>How do moles affect the body?</h2>
<p>Moles are usually benign (harmless), but they can sometimes change and become skin cancer (melanoma). This can be very serious and sometimes lead to death if not treated in time.</p>
<h2>Benign moles</h2>
<p>A benign mole has the following three features.</p>
<ul>
<li>It is symmetrical – you can draw an imaginary line and divide it into two identical pieces.</li>
<li>It has a regular border – there is a clear difference between the colour of the mole and skin around it.</li>
<li>It has a uniform pigment – every area of the mole is the same colour.</li>
</ul>
<p>In general, benign moles:</p>
<ul>
<li>grow as your child grows, becoming bigger as the skin stretches</li>
<li>get darker or lighter with time</li>
<li>may sometimes have coarse hair growing from them</li>
<li>will normally change a little throughout life, for example become raised over several years</li>
</ul>
<h2>Potentially harmful moles</h2>
<p>A mole that is potentially harmful might:</p>
<ul>
<li>change shape</li>
<li>rapidly grow (out of proportion with the child’s growth)</li>
<li>develop an uneven colour</li>
<li>form a scab or bleed without any injury</li>
</ul>
<p>A dermatologist (skin specialist) should examine your child’s skin if it looks different than it used to, if an area opens up, bleeds and has a hard time healing or if a new mole suddenly appears.</p> | <h2>What causes moles to appear?</h2><p>Several factors can cause moles to appear:</p><ul><li>sun exposure (more time in the sun increases the number of moles on your skin)</li><li>higher levels of cortisone, corticotropin and other hormones that help the body grow</li><li>chemotherapy (medication that treats cancer)</li><li>
<a href="/article?contentid=1170&language=English">immunosuppression</a> (a weakened immune system that prevents the body from fighting infections).</li></ul><h2>Can children develop melanoma?</h2><p>Yes they can, although melanoma in children is very rare. Only one child in one million children below age 15 develops melanoma.</p><p>The risk factors for developing melanoma during childhood include:</p><ul><li>having dysplastic nevi (irregular looking moles)<br></li><li>having a close family member, such as a parent or grandparent, with a history of melanoma</li><li>having a large number (more than 100) of melanocytic nevi, or moles</li><li>being immunosuppressed or having inherited immunodeficiency (weakened immune system)</li><li>having a sun-sensitive phenotype (very fair skin, light coloured eyes and red or light hair)</li><li>being exposed to ultraviolet radiation from the sun</li><li>having a history of malignancy (any form of cancer)</li><li>having a genetic disorder that makes the skin more sensitive to sun damage (for example xeroderma pigmentosum)</li></ul> | | <h2>How is a potentially harmful mole diagnosed?</h2><p>Dermatologists and other health-care professionals use the letters "ABCDE" as a guide when checking the skin for potentially harmful changes in existing or new moles. You can also use this guide when checking your child’s skin at home. </p><ul><li>
<strong>A </strong>stands for asymmetry (having two sides or halves that are not the same)</li><li>
<strong>B</strong> stands for border irregularity (the borders of the mole are not well defined)</li><li>
<strong>C </strong>stands for colour variation (different colour tones in the same mole, for example light and dark brown)</li><li>
<strong>D </strong>stands for diameter larger than 6 mm</li><li>
<strong>E </strong>stands for evolving (including any dramatic change in shape, colour or appearance in existing moles)</li></ul><p>If a mole has any of these characteristics, it should be examined more closely. A dermatoscopic examination (examining the skin using a special magnifying glass) or a
<a href="/article?contentid=2464&language=English">skin biopsy</a> (examining a small sample of the mole’s cells under a microscope) can tell your dermatologist or doctor if the mole is benign or malignant.<br></p>
<figure class="asset-c-100">
<span class="asset-image-title">ABCDEs of potentially harmful moles</span><img src="https://assets.aboutkidshealth.ca/akhassets/IMD_mole_ABCDE_EN.jpg" alt="Illustration of normal moles and potentially harmful moles according to ABCDE guide" /> </figure> | | | <h2>How can I or my child inspect my child’s skin at home?</h2><ol><li>Do the inspection in a well-lit area.</li><li>If you are inspecting your child’s skin, gather a hair dryer, two chairs or stools, a camera or smartphone, a ruler and a pen and paper. If your child is inspecting their own skin, they will need these tools and two mirrors, one that is hand-held mirror and one hanging on a wall or a door.</li><li>Inspect the different parts of the body in the same order each time. For example, always work from the head down or the feet up.</li><li>If working down from the head, for example, start by parting your child’s hair with a hair dryer or your hands to check their scalp. This is easier to do when the hair is wet.</li><li>Check your child’s shoulders, chest and genital area.</li><li>Check the back of their shoulders, their upper and lower back and their buttocks.</li><li>Check their upper arms, elbows, forearms, wrists, hands, palms and fingers, including the space between their fingers.</li><li>Check their inner and outer legs, front and back, including their knees and ankles.</li><li>Check their feet and toes, including the soles and the space between the toes.</li><li>Take a photo of any moles with a ruler beside them so you can record the size and keep track of any changes over time.<br></li></ol><br> | <h2>What can I do to reduce the risk of melanoma?</h2><ul><li>
<a href="/article?contentid=308&language=English">Avoid too much sun exposure</a> (use a hat and special SPF clothing at the beach or in sunny places).</li><li>Do not let your child or teenager use tanning beds.</li><li>Use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher, covering both UVA and UVB rays) every day, even during winter months, and reapply it periodically during the day.</li><li>Check the skin using the ABCDE acronym at least once every six months.</li><li>Talk to your child’s doctor if you notice any change that concerns you.</li></ul> | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | <div class="asset-video">
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7n9wjuEEwio?rel=0" frameborder="0"></iframe> </div>
<div class="asset-video">
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_ek6RydayLY?rel=0" frameborder="0"></iframe> <br></div> | | | | | | | | | | | | Moles are common skin growths. Find out how to tell the difference between benign and potentially harmful moles. | Main | | |
