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Spinal Muscular Atrophy in Children What is spinal muscular atrophy in children? Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a disease of the nerves and muscles caused by certain genes. It affects the motor neurons in the spinal cord. It causes muscle wasting and weakness. What causes

First Aid for a Choking Baby Choking happens when an object or liquid gets stuck in the throat or airway. This can block the flow of air and cut off oxygen to the brain. A baby may have a weak cough and trouble breathing. Or they may not be breathing. If your baby is choking

Healthy Sleep Habits in Children What is normal sleep? The total amount of sleep your child needs varies depending on their age. Age Recommended hours of sleep per day Newborn to 3 months 14 to 17 hours 4 to 12 months 12 to 16 hours (often sleeps through the night) 1 to 2 years

Newborn Screening Tests What are newborn screening tests? The U.S. has a national program of newborn screening tests. These check for health disorders that can be treated if they're found very early in life. If the screening test results are abnormal, it means more tests need to

Astrocytoma in Children What is an astrocytoma in children? An astrocytoma is a type of brain tumor. A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue in the brain. The brain is part of the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS also includes the spinal cord. The main parts of the

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Children What is IBS in children? Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a long-term (chronic) disorder that affects the intestine. IBS causes painful belly (abdominal) and bowel symptoms. With IBS, the colon appears normal. But pain and a change in

Neuroblastoma What is neuroblastoma in children? Neuroblastoma is cancer that starts when immature nerve cells in the nervous system grow out of control. These cells are called neuroblasts. Over time, the out-of-control cells form a tumor. Neuroblastoma is the most common solid

Conduct Disorder in Children What is conduct disorder in children? Conduct disorder is a type of behavior disorder. It’s when a child has antisocial behavior. They may disregard basic social standards and rules. They may also: Be irresponsible Skip school or run away (delinquent

Stomach and Duodenal Ulcers in Children What is a stomach or duodenal ulcer in children? An ulcer is an open sore (lesion). It’s normally found on the skin or mucous membranes. A peptic ulcer is in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine (the duodenum)

Coronary Heart Disease What is coronary heart disease? Coronary heart disease happens when the innermost layer of the coronary arteries becomes inflamed and narrowed. This is caused by a buildup of fatty deposits called plaque. These deposits may start in childhood and continue