Evidence-based medical information and resources for common pediatric conditions and health topics from Dr. Priyanka Kawali, MD at Koala Pediatrics.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.
The content provided in this medical resource library is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. Always consult with Dr. Priyanka Kawali, MD or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions regarding your child's health or medical conditions.
In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. For urgent medical concerns outside of office hours, contact our office at (206) 761-4985 or seek appropriate emergency care.
The information provided here is based on current medical knowledge and guidelines, but medical recommendations may change as new research becomes available. Dr. Priyanka Kawali, MD and Koala Pediatrics are not responsible for any actions taken based solely on the information provided in this resource library.
Information about frequently encountered childhood illnesses and conditions
Fever is a body temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. It's usually a sign that the body is fighting an infection and is generally not harmful.
Croup causes swelling of the voice box (larynx) and windpipe (trachea), narrowing the airway below the vocal cords. Most common in children 3 months to 5 years old. More frequent in fall and winter months.
Bronchiolitis is an infection causing small breathing tubes (bronchioles) in the lungs to swell, blocking airflow. Most common in infants because their airways are smaller. Often caused by RSV and other respiratory viruses. Different from bronchitis which affects larger airways.
RSV is a common respiratory virus that infects the lungs and breathing passages. Almost all children get RSV before age 2, and most recover without complications. However, it can cause serious illness in infants, especially premature babies and those with certain medical conditions.
Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness. Annual flu vaccination is the best protection.
COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Children generally have milder illness than adults but can still transmit the virus.
Next to the common cold, ear infections are the most common childhood illness. Most children have at least one ear infection by age 3. The ear has 3 parts—outer, middle, and inner ear. When fluid buildup in the middle ear becomes infected, it causes acute otitis media (middle ear inflammation).
Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. It's most common in children 5-15 years old. Scarlet fever is strep throat with a rash.
The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. Children get 6-8 colds per year on average. Most colds resolve on their own in 7-10 days.
Inflammation or infection of the sinuses. Often follows a cold. Symptoms lasting more than 10 days may indicate bacterial sinusitis requiring antibiotics.
Lung infection that can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or other organisms. Can range from mild to serious requiring hospitalization.
Highly contagious bacterial infection of the respiratory tract. Can be very serious, especially in infants. Preventable with vaccination.
Highly contagious viral infection that can cause serious health complications, especially in children younger than 5 years old. If one person has measles, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected. Measles spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Bird flu (avian influenza) is caused by influenza type A viruses that naturally occur among wild aquatic birds and can infect domestic poultry and other animals. The H5N1 strain is currently circulating in the U.S. Human infections are rare but can occur with direct exposure to infected birds or animals.
Source: Information based on CDC guidance. For current updates, visit CDC Bird Flu Situation Summary
Gastroenteritis is inflammation of the stomach and intestines, usually caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. It's very common in children.
Constipation is having fewer than 3 bowel movements per week, or having hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass.
Sudden change to loose, watery bowel movements occurring more often than usual. Most diarrhea in children is caused by viruses. Children under 4 may have diarrhea 1-2 times per year. Usually lasts 3-6 days.
Norovirus is the most common cause of gastroenteritis (stomach flu) in children and adults. It's highly contagious and spreads easily in schools, daycares, and families.
A virus that causes diarrhea and vomiting. Before the vaccine was released in 2006, it was the most common cause of diarrhea in children younger than 2 years. Disease occurs more frequently in cooler months (late autumn to early spring). Nearly all children have been infected by age 3. Children can get infected more than once because the virus has many types.
Often called "stomach flu," this is inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by viruses. Very common in children and highly contagious.
Eczema is a chronic skin condition causing red, itchy, inflamed skin. It's very common in children and often runs in families with allergies or asthma.
Diaper rash is irritated skin in the diaper area, appearing as red, inflamed patches. It's very common and usually not serious.
An illness with rash and fever caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Highly contagious to people who have not been vaccinated or had the disease. Vaccination has made this condition much less common.
A common viral illness in young children caused by coxsackievirus. Most common in summer and fall. Usually mild and resolves on its own in 7-10 days.
A superficial bacterial skin infection most common in young children. Caused by streptococcus or staphylococcus bacteria. Highly contagious but easily treated.
Fifth disease (erythema infectiosum) is usually not a serious infection. It is caused by parvovirus B19 and can be spread through droplets or secretions. Most notable for a bright red "slapped cheek" rash. More common in late winter and early spring, especially in elementary and middle school outbreaks.
Despite its name, ringworm is not caused by worms but by fungi. It causes circular, scaly patches on the skin. Common in children and highly contagious.
Tiny insects that live on the scalp and feed on blood. Very common in school-age children. Not a sign of poor hygiene and don't spread disease.
An infestation of the skin by small insects called mites. Affects people from all socioeconomic levels without regard to sex, age, or personal hygiene.
Different types of human papillomavirus (HPV) cause different warts: common warts (hands), plantar warts (feet), and anogenital warts. Some HPV types can cause cancer. Only mildly contagious and most often spread to other areas of the affected child's body.
A skin disease caused by a virus, somewhat similar to warts. Very mildly contagious and most often spreads to other areas of the affected child's body rather than to other children.
Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to usually harmless substances (allergens). Reactions can range from minor sneezing to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Allergies tend to run in families.
A food allergy occurs when the body's immune system overreacts to harmless proteins in foods. Approximately 1 in 20-25 children has a food allergy. Most reactions happen shortly after eating. Many children outgrow food allergies—80-90% outgrow milk, egg, wheat, and soy allergies by age 5.
Anaphylaxis is a serious allergic reaction that often affects many body systems. It comes on quickly and can be fatal. Immediate medical attention is critical. Parents and caregivers should know the signs and what to do if it happens.
Children with asthma and allergies to certain foods, stinging insects, or medicines are at highest risk. Common allergens include:
Symptoms occur quickly and often at the same time, affecting multiple body systems:
Asthma is a chronic disease affecting the airways in the lungs. Airways become inflamed and sensitive, causing them to narrow during an asthma attack. Nearly 1 in 10 children has asthma, making it the most common serious chronic childhood disease.
Things that cause asthma attacks or make asthma worse are called triggers. Triggers can be found in your home, school, child care, and other places. Identifying and avoiding triggers is essential for asthma control.
Pinkeye (acute contagious conjunctivitis) occurs when the thin tissue covering the white part of the eye and the inside of the eyelids is red or swollen (inflamed). Pinkeye may be caused by bacteria or viruses, or by contact with irritants such as swimming pool chlorine, pollen, and sand. Both bacterial and viral pinkeye are contagious and can spread easily in schools and child care settings.
A mild infection of a gland in the eyelid at the base of the eyelashes. Also called hordeolum. Different from chalazions, which are caused by inflammation of an oil gland, are not typically red or tender, and may persist for months.
UTIs are common in young children and can lead to serious health problems if untreated. Normal urine has no bacteria, but bacteria can enter from the skin around rectum/genitals or through bloodstream. About 3% of girls and 1% of boys will have a UTI by age 11. Uncircumcised boys have more UTIs than circumcised boys.
Seizures triggered by fever in 2-5% of children ages 6 months to 5 years. Usually happen during first few hours of fever. While frightening to watch, they are harmless and don't cause brain damage, nervous system problems, paralysis, intellectual disability, or death.
A condition where breathing pauses during sleep. Affects estimated 2% of all children. If untreated, can lead to heart, behavior, learning, and growth problems. Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are the most common cause.
Condition where red blood cells are decreased below normal for child's age. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin that carries oxygen to body cells. First year of life and adolescence are two age groups especially prone to anemia due to rapid growth. Low iron levels can affect energy, focus, and learning ability.
Bedwetting (nocturnal enuresis) is involuntary urination during sleep. It's common in young children and most outgrow it naturally. About 15% of 5-year-olds and 5% of 10-year-olds still wet the bed. Boys are more likely to wet the bed than girls. It's not caused by laziness or behavioral problems.
A disease most commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and sometimes by other viruses such as cytomegalovirus. Commonly known as "mono" or the "kissing disease." Most people get infected in early childhood when symptoms are mild and often go undiagnosed. However, the disease can be more severe in adolescents and young adults.
The tonsils are pink, oval-shaped masses on each side of your child's throat. They are small in infants and increase in size during early childhood. The tonsils produce antibodies when the body is fighting infection.
The adenoid is located in the upper part of the throat, above the uvula and behind the nose (nasopharynx). Like the tonsils, the adenoid is part of your child's defense against infections. The adenoid can only be seen with special instruments or indirectly by X-ray.
Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, usually due to infection. Sometimes tonsils can be enlarged without infection. Signs of tonsillitis include:
Both tonsils and adenoid may be enlarged if your child has the above symptoms along with:
Tonsillectomy (tonsil removal) and adenoidectomy (adenoid removal) are less routine today. Surgery may be recommended if:
Guidelines for healthy nutrition from infancy through adolescence
The AAP recommends breastfeeding as the sole source of nutrition for about 6 months. When you add solid foods, continue breastfeeding until at least 12 months. Signs of readiness include:
Picky eating is a normal phase in childhood. Some children are naturally more selective, while others use food refusal to assert independence. The key is making mealtimes pleasant without battles.
Calcium builds strong bones and teeth (99% of body's calcium is stored there). Peak bone density is reached in young adulthood. Getting enough calcium now prevents osteoporosis later. Ages 9-18 have highest calcium needs.
Breakfast gives children energy for an active morning. Children who skip breakfast may not concentrate well at school. Choose cereals with less than 10-12g sugar and at least 3g fiber per serving.
Fiber helps make us full and keeps digestive tract moving. May help prevent constipation. Foods with fiber are good sources of nutrients that may reduce risk of heart disease, certain cancers, and obesity.
Lactose intolerance occurs when people can't digest lactose (milk sugar). Their bodies don't make enough lactase enzyme. Undigested lactose stays in intestines causing gas, bloating, cramps, and diarrhea. Different from milk allergy (which involves immune system).
Breast milk gives your baby more than just good nutrition. It provides important substances to fight infection. Breastfeeding has medical and psychological benefits for both mother and baby. The more relaxed and confident you feel, the faster your milk will flow to your baby.
Key topics - Full details available in backup file or by contacting our office
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a behavior disorder characterized by attention problems and/or hyperactivity and impulsivity. Usually diagnosed in childhood, with symptoms almost always apparent by age 7. The inattentive type may not be evident until third or fourth grade when higher expectations emerge.
Includes primary care provider, parents, teachers, mental health professionals, and educational specialists. Diagnosis can be made by qualified healthcare professionals through detailed history, physical examination, and observation.
Trust your instincts as a parent. If you're concerned about your child's mental health, it's better to seek help early. Many mental health conditions are treatable, and early intervention leads to better outcomes.
These evidence-based strategies can help improve mood and emotional well-being for children, teens, and adults. While not a substitute for professional treatment when needed, these approaches support overall mental health.
Children react to traumatic events or community crises (natural disasters, violence, pandemics) differently than adults. Reactions vary by age, personality, and previous experiences. Providing support helps children feel safe and process difficult emotions.
Babies cry for different reasons as one way to tell us what they need. They may be hungry, have a soiled diaper, want attention, or be experiencing colic. Each baby is different.
Colic describes healthy babies who cry a lot and are hard to comfort. About 1 in 5 babies develops colic. Possible reasons include unusual sensitivity to stimulation or inability to self-console.
Newborns are born with automatic responses called reflexes that help them survive and develop. These involuntary movements are normal and indicate healthy neurological development. Most newborn reflexes disappear as baby develops voluntary control, typically by 4-6 months.
Communication begins long before first words. Babies and toddlers use sounds, gestures, facial expressions, and eventually words to express needs and interact with others. Every child develops at their own pace, but certain milestones help track progress.
Play is children's "work" and primary way they learn about the world. Through play, children develop physical, cognitive, social, and emotional skills. Play helps build brain connections essential for learning, creativity, and problem-solving.
Temper tantrums are a normal part of development, typically beginning around 12-18 months and peaking between ages 2-3. They occur because young children haven't yet developed the language skills and emotional regulation to express their feelings appropriately. Most children outgrow tantrums by age 4.
Babies cry for different reasons as one way to tell us what they need. They may be hungry, have a soiled diaper, want attention, or be experiencing colic. Each baby is different.
Colic describes healthy babies who cry a lot and are hard to comfort. About 1 in 5 babies develops colic. Possible reasons include unusual sensitivity to stimulation or inability to self-console.
Temper tantrums are a normal part of development, typically beginning around 12-18 months and peaking between ages 2-3. They occur because young children haven't yet developed the language skills and emotional regulation to express their feelings appropriately. Most children outgrow tantrums by age 4.
Play is children's "work" and primary way they learn about the world. Through play, children develop physical, cognitive, social, and emotional skills. Play helps build brain connections essential for learning, creativity, and problem-solving.
Adequate sleep is essential for children's physical health, emotional well-being, and cognitive development. Sleep needs vary by age, and establishing healthy sleep habits early sets the foundation for lifelong health.
Most children are ready between 18-30 months, but readiness varies. Starting before your child is ready often leads to frustration. Look for signs of readiness rather than focusing on age.
Positive discipline focuses on teaching children appropriate behavior rather than punishing misbehavior. It builds respectful relationships, teaches problem-solving skills, and encourages self-discipline. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key.
The desire for independence begins in toddlerhood and continues through adolescence. Children naturally want to do things themselves as they develop new skills. Supporting independence while maintaining safety and guidance is a delicate balance that changes with each developmental stage.
Anger is a normal, healthy emotion. All children get angry. The key is teaching children to recognize anger and express it in healthy, appropriate ways rather than through aggression or destruction. Children who learn to manage anger effectively have better relationships and fewer behavior problems.
Age-appropriate milestones help track your child's physical, cognitive, and social development. Visit our detailed Developmental Milestones page for comprehensive information.
Regular growth monitoring helps ensure your child is developing appropriately. Every child grows at their own pace, and variations are completely normal. Your pediatrician tracks growth using standardized growth charts.
Newborns typically sleep 16-17 hours daily but only for a few hours at a time. They may wake every 2-4 hours day and night for feeding. This is normal and temporary.
Babies cry to communicate needs. Create womb-like conditions to help calm:
When infants babble, they want you to talk back. This is how they learn to communicate.
Vaccines are one of the most important ways to protect your child from serious diseases. They work with your child's natural defenses to safely develop immunity to diseases. Vaccines have saved millions of lives and prevented countless cases of serious illness and disability.
Your baby's first vaccine is usually given in the hospital within 24 hours of birth. This protects against hepatitis B, a serious liver infection.
At 2 months, babies receive several vaccines to protect against multiple serious diseases:
Occasional anxiety is normal and expected. Children may feel anxious about school, making friends, or trying new things. However, anxiety disorders involve more than temporary worry. The anxiety doesn't go away, can get worse over time, and interferes with daily activities like school work, relationships, and sleep.
Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common but serious mood disorder causing severe symptoms that affect how children feel, think, and handle daily activities. Symptoms must be present for at least two weeks for diagnosis.
Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in helping children manage anxiety. While professional treatment may be needed, family support and home strategies are essential components of anxiety management.
If you notice these signs, seek immediate help. Take all threats seriously.
Suicide is the second leading cause of death among adolescents ages 10-24. Most teens who die by suicide have a diagnosable mental health condition, but many were never diagnosed or treated. Prevention is possible through awareness, open communication, and access to help.
Some stress is normal and can be motivating. However, chronic or excessive stress can affect children's physical and emotional health, behavior, and school performance. Teaching stress management early helps children develop lifelong coping skills.
Bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior involving a real or perceived power imbalance. The behavior is repeated over time. Bullying can cause serious harm to victims' physical and mental health, academic performance, and social relationships. It's never acceptable.
Cyberbullying is bullying that occurs through digital devices like phones, computers, and tablets. It can happen via text, apps, social media, gaming platforms, or forums. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can occur 24/7 and reach large audiences quickly.
Social skills help children build friendships, communicate effectively, and navigate social situations successfully. These skills develop over time and can be taught and practiced at home and school.
This medical resources page contains comprehensive information on 50+ pediatric health topics. For detailed content on any of these categories, or for personalized medical guidance, please contact our office.
All information is evidence-based and regularly updated to reflect current pediatric medical guidelines.
Dr. Priyanka Kawali, MD is here to help. Contact Koala Pediatrics for personalized medical advice and care.
