Summer often brings more time outdoors, family vacations and packed activity schedules. But it can also bring coughing, congestion, headaches and fatigue — symptoms that can leave families wondering what is actually causing them. Is it seasonal allergies? Smoke or poor air quality? A summer cold? In many cases, the symptoms overlap enough...
For many families, summer brings a welcome break from busy school schedules. Bedtimes stretch a little later, routines loosen and kids have more freedom to play, explore and just be kids. But along with that flexibility often comes a familiar set of parent questions: Will my child fall behind...
Time in the sun is part of nearly every summer activity, but too much exposure can lead to more than just a temporary burn. [caption id="attachment_60075" align="alignleft" width="232"] Jaclyn Stoddard, PA-C[/caption] “Sunburns are very common this time of year, especially for kids who are outside for long stretches,” said Jaclyn Stoddard, PA-C, family medicine physician...
The communication gap parents don’t always see For many families, sending a child to camp whether for the day or overnight is an exciting part of summer. It’s also a time when parents rely on their child to communicate when something isn’t right. The challenge is, kids don’t always speak up. [caption id="attachment_60069" align="alignleft" width="284"] Sara...
Start with safety before kids get in the water From backyard pools to summer lake trips, water is a big part of family fun during the summer. But it also comes with serious risks. [caption id="attachment_60045" align="alignleft" width="254"] Dr. Sarah O'Connor, Beacon Medical Group Pediatrics Bristol Street[/caption] “Drowning...
For many children, going to camp whether for a day, overnight or extended stay is an exciting milestone. It’s a chance to build independence, make new friends and try new things. But even with all the excitement, it’s also completely normal for kids to experience emotional and physical adjustment during that transition. [caption id="attachment_60011" align="alignleft" width="256"]...
Recognizing the signs of a stroke and acting quickly can mean the difference between recovery and lasting damage. For 39-year-old Dylan Friar of Niles, Michigan, that lesson became all too real. What Dylan thought was a migraine turned into a sudden medical emergency. He couldn’t control...
Understanding the perimenopause transition For many women, perimenopause begins quietly and often unexpectedly. Periods may become irregular. Sleep may be harder to come by. Mood, energy or focus can feel different than they used to. Too often, these changes are dismissed as stress, aging or simply a busy phase of life. In reality,...
Spending time outdoors whether at day camp, overnight camp or on a family camping trip often means coming into contact with plants you don’t think twice about. But for many families, an itchy rash a day or two later can quickly become an unwelcome part of the experience. [caption id="attachment_60025" align="alignleft" width="200"] Holly Tuyls, NP[/caption] “Not every rash...
Spending time outside is one of the best parts of summer, whether your child is heading to day camp, staying overnight or your family is planning a weekend in the woods. Along with all that fresh air and activity, bug bites and stings are almost guaranteed. Most of the...
