About Shellfish Allergy A shellfish allergy is not exactly the same as a seafood allergy. Seafood includes fish (like tuna or cod) and shellfish (like lobster or clams). Even though they both fall into the category of “seafood,” fish and shellfish are biologically different. So fish will not cause an …
Soy Allergy
About Soy Allergy Soy has become a common ingredient in foods. It’s also a common cause of food allergy. Soy comes from soybeans, which are in the legume family (along with beans, lentils, peas, and peanuts). Some people are allergic to just one type of legume; others are allergic to …
Stem Cell Transplants
Stem cells are cells in the body that have the potential to turn into anything, such as a skin cell, a liver cell, a brain cell, or a blood cell. Stem cells that turn into blood cells are called hematopoietic (heh-mat-uh-poy-EH-tik) stem cells. These cells are capable of developing into the …
What Is Oral Allergy Syndrome?
What is oral allergy syndrome? – Diane Oral allergy syndrome, or OAS, is an allergic reaction that usually happens only in the mouth and throat. People with OAS can react to specific foods, such as certain fruits and vegetables. When they eat food they’re allergic to, they may notice itching, …
What Is Skin Testing for Allergies?
What is skin testing for allergies? – Julia The most common way to test for allergies is on the skin, usually the forearm or the back. In a typical skin test (also called a scratch test), a doctor or nurse will place a tiny bit of an allergen (such as …
What’s the Difference Between a Food Allergy and a Food Intolerance?
What is the difference between food allergies and food intolerances? – Elaine Food allergies and food intolerances (or sensitivities) can have similar symptoms, but are very different conditions: Intolerances, such as lactose intolerance and celiac disease, can cause someone to feel ill. Food allergies not only can make someone feel …
Wheat Allergy
About Wheat Allergy When someone is allergic to wheat, the body’s immune system, which normally fights infections, overreacts to proteins in the wheat. When the person eats something made with wheat, the body thinks that these proteins are harmful invaders. The immune system responds by working very hard to fight …
All About Sleep
Sleep — or lack of it — is probably the most-discussed aspect of baby care. As new parents quickly discover, the quality and quantity of their baby’s sleep affects the well-being of everyone in the household. And sleep struggles rarely end when child moves from a crib to a bed. Instead …
Flat Head Syndrome (Positional Plagiocephaly)
Babies are born with soft heads to allow for the amazing brain growth that occurs in the first year of life. As a result, their heads are easily “molded.” Passage through the birth canal during childbirth can cause a newborn’s head to look pointy or too long. So it’s normal …
Naps
The Importance of Naps Nap. It’s a small word, but for most parents a hugely important one. Why? Sleep is a major requirement for good health, and for young kids to get enough of it, some daytime sleep is usually needed. Crucial physical and mental development occurs in early childhood, and …