Emergency medicine

Most children who contract infections such as fever, colds, or the flu will recover completely and can be treated at home. However, some serious infections will require a trip to the emergency department. Learn how to tell when to take your child to the hospital.

A child’s allergic or anaphylactic reaction can be a scary experience. Find out about the symptoms of an allergic reaction, what can trigger it and how they are treated. Your child should go to the hospital if they have received epinephrine (EpiPen or Allerject).

Learn more about common disorders such as ear infections, pink eye and strep throat and when they require a visit to the emergency department. Although they are not often serious, these disorders can affect your child’s hearing, speech and vision.

Gastrointestinal (GI) disorders affect the digestive system and often cause bowel problems and abdominal pain. Some can be treated at home while others may require more specialized treatment in hospital. Learn what to do for a child with a GI disorder.

Genital and reproductive disorders can include inflammation and infection in the genitals and may require emergency attention. Learn more about these disorders, how to prevent them, and when to see a doctor.

The nervous system controls the muscles in the body, interprets information and transmits thoughts and emotions. Conditions such as concussions and seizures can affect the nervous system. Learn the signs and symptoms and when to take a child to the emergency department.

Lung and breathing disorders such as asthma, bronchiolitis and pneumonia affect the respiratory system. Your child may need to go to hospital if they have trouble breathing. Find out more information about these conditions, including diagnosis, treatment and prevention.

Teething can be uncomfortable for most children. However, some mouth and tooth disorders can be painful and make it difficult for your child to eat and drink. Find out how you can help your child and which dental issues should be looked at by a doctor.

Many newborn issues, including colic and diaper rash, do not usually require medical attention. However, if these issues persist, it may be necessary to consult your doctor or visit the emergency department. Find out more about these conditions and how to treat them.

Rashes produced by conditions and infections such as hives, herpangina, and scarlet fever usually go away on their own or with appropriate treatment, but certain symptoms should be checked out in the emergency department. Learn what to expect with each condition and how it's treated.

Sprains and strains involve injuries to the ligaments, muscle or tendon while fractures affect the bones. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury and may require a cast or sling. Learn what to expect when your child comes to the emergency department.