Is It Safe to Use Dimethicone Drops for Infant Gas Relief?
Anti-bloating drops Dear Dr. Zhang, My child is currently about three months old, and his height and weight are both normal. He is exclusively drinking formula (YouSheng SA+), and he has a bowel movement approximately every 2-4 days (occasionally the stool is a bit dry, but he d...
Dr. Zhang Peixin Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, if height and weight are growing steadily, nutritional needs should be adequate and not cause abdominal distension. It may still be related to insufficient bowel movements. You might consider trying probiotics or adding dietary fiber according to the ch...[Read More] Is It Safe to Use Dimethicone Drops for Infant Gas Relief?
Understanding Neurofibromatosis and Tuberous Sclerosis in Children
Neurofibroma I would like to ask if neurofibromatosis and tuberous sclerosis are the same disease. If not, what are the differences between the two? As parents of a child with such a condition, how should we care for our child? Will this disease automatically disappear as the chi...
Dr. Gu Qingxian Reply:
Hello! Both conditions are caused by genetic mutations that lead to defects in ectoderm development during the embryonic stage. Initially, they present with skin lesions in early childhood, as well as tumors in various organs, which can affect the child's developmental progr...[Read More] Understanding Neurofibromatosis and Tuberous Sclerosis in Children
Understanding White Hair in Toddlers: Causes and Concerns
Baby's white hair Hello Dr. Lin, Today, while I was fixing my 2.4-year-old daughter's hair, I noticed a short, thicker white hair, which is actually closer to a light golden color. Does this indicate any warning signs? My husband’s family tends to have white hair at a ...
Dr. Chen Rongtai Reply:
The letter mentions that the 2-year-old daughter has a short and thick white hair. It is difficult to determine whether this is associated with other conditions or if it is simply an isolated occurrence based on such a minor sign. It is advisable to continue monitoring and to pay...[Read More] Understanding White Hair in Toddlers: Causes and Concerns
Can My Allergic Baby Receive the Measles Vaccine Safely?
Measles vaccine Hello, Doctor: 1. My baby is currently 10 months old and has received all the scheduled vaccinations on time. However, since my baby has allergies, we have not introduced any egg products. If my baby has a slight allergic reaction to eggs, can he still receive t...
Dr. Lin Wenxian Reply:
Dear Mother De De, Greetings from Dr. Lin Wen-Hsien, Chief of Pediatrics at Tainan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan. I would like to address your questions in order: 1. The likelihood of an egg allergy is very low; out of 100,000 children, only about one may have ...[Read More] Can My Allergic Baby Receive the Measles Vaccine Safely?
Reducing Milk Intake in Toddlers: When to Transition and Alternatives
Decreased milk intake? Hello, Director: I have a few questions to ask. My baby is currently 1 year and 6 months old, and I have noticed a decrease in her milk intake. Most of the time, she can only finish about 150cc, averaging 3-4 milk feedings a day. However, her intake of othe...
Dr. Lin Wenxian Reply:
Dear Deep Blue, Dr. Lin Wen-Hsien, the Director of Pediatrics at Tainan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan, would like to inform you that after the age of one, children can eat foods similar to adults, with an emphasis on solid foods. Milk consumption should be reduc...[Read More] Reducing Milk Intake in Toddlers: When to Transition and Alternatives
Understanding Abdominal Pain in Toddlers: Causes and Concerns
Frequent complaints of pain? My daughter is one month shy of two years old. Since she was one year and ten months, she has frequently complained of stomach pain, about 2-3 times a week. She currently weighs 10 kg and has only grown 1 cm in height over the past six months. She eat...
Dr. Lin Wenxian Reply:
Dear Ms. Xiao Ci, Hello! Below are the answers to your questions: 1. Drinking Yakult or yogurt on an empty stomach is generally not a problem. However, it is important to avoid letting children develop a habit of consuming overly sweet beverages or foods. Occasional consumption...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain in Toddlers: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia and Thalassemia in Children
Iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia? Dear Sir/Madam, Recently, I noticed that my child (2-3 years old) has a slightly pale complexion and cold hands and feet at night. After a blood test, the doctor diagnosed iron deficiency anemia. Upon further investigation, it was found th...
Dr. Lin Wenxian Reply:
Dear CAT, Hello. The issues of iron deficiency anemia and thalassemia can be discussed for hours. However, I would like to start with a brief explanation based on your questions. Hb is an abbreviation for hemoglobin, which is the main component in red blood cells responsible fo...[Read More] Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia and Thalassemia in Children
Understanding Mild Bilateral Renal Pelvic Dilation in Infants
Bilateral mild hydronephrosis? Hello, my daughter is now seven months old and weighs 6.5 kg. At birth, she was diagnosed with "bilateral mild hydronephrosis." She has been urinating normally, and we have been following up with ultrasounds every three months, which have ...
Dr. Lin Wenxian Reply:
Dear Mommy of Niu, Hello. The cause of hydronephrosis is excessive pressure from urine in that area, leading to the enlargement of the renal pelvis, which can also be referred to as "water kidney." The impact of this condition depends on the underlying cause and the se...[Read More] Understanding Mild Bilateral Renal Pelvic Dilation in Infants
Struggles with Milk Intake: Pediatric Tips for Parents
Not drinking milk? Dear Dr. Lin, Happy New Year! My daughter has only been drinking 60cc of milk since she was brought home from the obstetrics and gynecology department. She really dislikes milk and refuses to drink it from a bottle, so I have to feed her with a spoon, one spo...
Dr. Lin Wenxian Reply:
Dear Concerned Father, Happy New Year! It sounds like you and your partner are truly remarkable and are working very hard. Feeding a child often requires the effort of both parents. Indeed, correcting a child's eating habits can sometimes be quite challenging for parents, a...[Read More] Struggles with Milk Intake: Pediatric Tips for Parents
Managing Low Complement Nephritis and Hypercalciuria in Children
Hypocomplementemic glomerulonephritis with hypercalciuria? Children with eyelid edema and diagnosed with low complement nephritis and hypercalciuria should be monitored for several important factors. 1. **Monitoring**: Regular follow-ups with a pediatric nephrologist are essent...
Dr. Gu Qingxian Reply:
Hello, does the child only exhibit eyelid swelling? Could you also provide the urine test or kidney ultrasound report to better understand the child's current condition? There are many causes of hypercalciuria, and the precautions required vary depending on the specific caus...[Read More] Managing Low Complement Nephritis and Hypercalciuria in Children
Is Your 9-Month-Old Refusing Milk? Nutritional Tips for Parents
Not drinking milk? The child is 9 months old and drinks breast milk twice a day (about 300cc). Recently, he refuses to drink cow's milk completely, and when we try to give it to him while he is asleep, he just spits it out. We are making porridge from brown rice and adding b...
Dr. Yi Zonghong Reply:
Dr. Tsai Cheng-Hsien, attending physician of the pediatrics department at Tainan City Hospital, responds: Dear concerned mother, babies who are breastfed indeed need to start introducing complementary foods and prepare for weaning at this stage. The process typically begins with ...[Read More] Is Your 9-Month-Old Refusing Milk? Nutritional Tips for Parents
Understanding Gross Motor Development Issues in Toddlers
Gross motor development issues Hello, Dr. Lin. My younger brother is currently one year and seven months old, and he is 85 cm tall and weighs 11.6 kg. I have a few questions to ask: (1) He walks with a slight outward toeing and sometimes shuffles his feet. When he runs, his hea...
Dr. Lin Wenxian Reply:
Dr. Lin Wen-Hsien, the head of the pediatrics department at Tainan Hospital under the Ministry of Health and Welfare, responded to DEAR Xueer: The situation you described in your letter can be considered normal. A child who is over one year and seven months old typically exhibits...[Read More] Understanding Gross Motor Development Issues in Toddlers
Best Formula Options for Babies with Galactosemia
Babies with galactosemia can consume specialized formulas that are lactose-free and galactose-free. These formulas are designed to provide the necessary nutrients without the harmful effects of galactose. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for recommendations on...
Dr. Lin Huizhen Reply:
The Pediatric Department of Tainan Hospital, under the Ministry of Health and Welfare, has provided a response on behalf of Dr. Lin Hui-Chen, who is currently attending a conference abroad. DEAR Tina: Regarding the dietary management of galactosemia, it is essential to eliminat...[Read More] Best Formula Options for Babies with Galactosemia
Allergy Testing and Dietary Changes for Infants: Key Questions Answered
Could you please provide more details about allergens and related issues? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you three questions: 1. For an 11-month-old baby, if allergy testing is to be conducted, is it done through a blood test? Where can I go to have this test done? 2. If ...
Dr. Lin Wenxian Reply:
Dear May, Hello May: In Taiwan, with the advancement of civilization and industrialization, allergic issues among children have become increasingly common, becoming a focal point of concern for parents. I will address your questions in order. 1. Regarding the timing for allerge...[Read More] Allergy Testing and Dietary Changes for Infants: Key Questions Answered
Essential Guidelines for Introducing Solid Foods to Your Baby
Baby complementary food issues? My baby is currently five months old. What foods should I avoid when introducing solid foods? Are there specific types of seafood, fruits, vegetables, or meats that should not be given to the baby? Is it okay to prepare porridge for the baby now? C...
Dr. Chen Rongtai Reply:
The letter mentions that the baby is currently five months old. Are there any dietary restrictions? For infants with a family history of allergies, it is advisable to avoid introducing allergenic foods too early, such as peanuts, tree nuts, cow's milk, eggs, and shellfish li...[Read More] Essential Guidelines for Introducing Solid Foods to Your Baby
Vaccination Schedule and Nutritional Concerns for Young Children
Vaccination 1. The child is currently one year and nine months old (male). He received the first dose of the influenza vaccine on October 6. However, he still needs to receive the diphtheria, pertussis, and tetanus (DPT) combination vaccine, the oral polio vaccine, and the varice...
Dr. Lin Wenxian Reply:
Director Lin Wen-Hsien of the Pediatrics Department at Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, responds to Carol: Dear Parent, I would like to address your questions in order: A. Regarding the sequence of influenza vaccination and other vaccines: they can be administe...[Read More] Vaccination Schedule and Nutritional Concerns for Young Children
Managing Your Baby's Severe Cough and Vomiting After Chlamydia Infection
After a child has a Campylobacter infection and is experiencing persistent vomiting, what should be done? Hello Dr. Chen: My baby (4 months old) started experiencing severe coughing, occasional vomiting, and a runny nose a few days ago. After a doctor's diagnosis, it was det...
Dr. Chen Rongtai Reply:
Pneumonia caused by Chlamydia in newborns typically occurs within the first one to three months after birth. Clinically, it is often characterized by persistent coughing and shortness of breath, but fever is rare. Physical examination may reveal notable lung crackles. In cases of...[Read More] Managing Your Baby's Severe Cough and Vomiting After Chlamydia Infection
Dealing with Constipation in Children: When to Seek Help
What to do about constipation? My 3-year-old daughter has been struggling with bowel movement issues since birth. We have changed her diet, switched formulas, performed massages, and sought medical treatment with medication, but there has been no improvement. Currently, she needs...
Dr. Zhang Peixin Reply:
Hello: 1. Most cases of constipation are functional issues, and please seek medical attention to rule out other diseases, especially ensuring that growth and development are normal. 2. If dietary fiber, hydration, and exercise are adequate, please discuss with your physician the ...[Read More] Dealing with Constipation in Children: When to Seek Help
How to Address Poor Appetite in 18-Month-Old Children?
How to manage poor appetite in an 18-month-old child? Doctor Zhang, my 18-month-old child has a poor appetite and weighs only a little over 11 kilograms. How should I address this? A friend suggested giving my child Ba Bao Fen (a traditional Chinese medicine). Is this advisable? ...
Dr. Zhang Peixin Reply:
Hello: 1. Eight Treasure Powder is a traditional Chinese medicine, and its use should be minimized unless necessary. 2. If you are dissatisfied with your weight, please consider the following actions: (1) Record your growth curve data from childhood to present and consult a physi...[Read More] How to Address Poor Appetite in 18-Month-Old Children?
Understanding Your Baby's Bowel Movements: Normal vs. Diarrhea
Infant stool issues? My daughter is currently over eight months old and has been having bowel movements almost every day, with a consistent schedule in the morning. The stools are normal and well-formed. However, recently, in addition to her morning bowel movement, she has also b...
Dr. Zhang Peixin Reply:
Hello: 1. If you are experiencing diarrhea, please reduce the intake of greasy or overly sweet foods, and avoid drinking juices, as these can exacerbate abdominal discomfort. 2. In cases of acute diarrhea, most individuals will recover within a week. If problems persist, please c...[Read More] Understanding Your Baby's Bowel Movements: Normal vs. Diarrhea