Factsheets

Abdominal injuries are when there is damage to abdominal organs, including the spleen, liver or kidneys. They can cause bleeding inside the body and must be…

The abdomen is the area of the body that holds organs like the stomach, bowel, and kidneys. Abdominal pain is common in children and is often called a stomach…

Abusive head injury, or non-accidental brain injury, happens when a baby or child is shaken or hit on purpose. It is a form of child abuse that can cause…

Acne is a common skin condition that causes breakouts of spots or pimples in places like the face or neck.

Adrenaline injectors, like EpiPen® and Anapen, are emergency devices used to treat a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.

An allergy is when the immune system reacts to something that is usually harmless. Allergy tests are done to figure out what your child is allergic to and how…

Anorexia nervosa is a mental health condition and eating disorder that affects the way someone thinks, feels and behaves towards their body shape and weight.

Anterior knee pain is when there is pain at the front of the knee or near the patella, also known as the kneecap.

Anxiety is when you have feelings of worry and fear. Anxiety can become a disorder when it is strong, ongoing and interferes with daily life and health.

Aortic stenosis is a narrowing of the aortic valve, which makes the heart work harder.

The appendix is a small organ that is attached to the large intestine or bowel. Appendicitis is when the appendix becomes inflamed.

An arterio-venous malformation (AVM) is a condition in babies where blood vessels in the brain become big and tangled. This makes the heart work harder.

Learn about Asthma, a life-long lung condition. It causes the airways to become inflamed and tight and produces extra mucus. This makes breathing difficult.

An ASD, sometimes called a hole in the heart, is a hole in the wall between the heart’s top chambers that lets blood flow between them.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects how children communicate and interact with others and their environment.

Bedwetting is a common issue in young children that usually gets better by the age of five. Regular bedwetting in older children should be checked by a doctor.

Bees, wasps, and ants are insects that can sting, injecting venom into the skin. These stings can be painful and may cause allergic reactions in some children.

Biliary atresia is a rare liver condition that happens in newborn babies. It causes scars in the liver, which block the bile ducts.

Bilious vomiting is when a baby's vomit is a colour ranging from yellow to green. It is usually a sign of a twisted or blocked bowel, which is a medical…

Bone cancer is when unusual cells grow in a bone, forming a tumour. The two main types of bone cancer are Osteogenic Sarcoma and Ewings Sarcoma.

Bone fractures are breaks in the bone that will heal over a few months. They can be treated using plaster casts, splints, and surgery.

Bow-legs and knock knees are common leg shape changes in young children, often self-correcting. Learn signs, causes and when to see a doctor.

Brain and spinal cord cancers are tumours that grow in the brain and spinal cord. They are the second most common type of childhood cancer.

Brain death is a permanent condition where the brain and brainstem stop working.

A breath-holding spell is when your child catches their breath and does not continue to breathe for a period.

Bronchiolitis is a common chest infection in babies under 12 months. It causes mucus buildup and breathing difficulties.

A burn injury is when there is damage to the skin caused by heat, radiation, electricity, friction, or chemicals.

Burns aftercare is the care needed once a burn has healed and the skin is still healing.

Cardiac catheterisation is a procedure used to get detailed information about the heart.

Cerebral palsy is the name for a group of conditions that cause problems with movement and balance. Support options are available for children with cerebral…

Chickenpox is a common virus in children that causes a red, spotty rash and itchy blisters.

Childhood obesity is when a child has a higher level of body fat than is considered healthy for their age range.

Chronic neonatal lung disease (CNLD), is a condition where newborn babies have trouble breathing for a longer period than usual.

Clubfoot is a treatable condition where a baby is born with their foot twisted inwards, It is also called congenital talipes equinovarus.

Coarctation of the aorta (COA) is when the major blood vessel becomes narrow and stops blood from easily flowing away from the heart and through the body.

Coeliac Disease is a condition where the lining of the small bowel is damaged by a protein in food called gluten.

Breastfeeding is when a baby is fed using human milk from the breast. Breastfeeding can be challenging but can be managed well with support.

Caring for a newborn can be challenging; this factsheet offers guidance on common issues, normal changes, and signs that may require medical attention.

A concussion is an injury caused by sudden strong brain movement against the skull, like being hit in the head or falling. A concussion can develop into a…

Congenital cataracts are a treatable condition where the lens in a child’s eye is cloudy instead of clear.

Congenital heart disease is a difference or problem with how the heart grows. A septal defect is a type of congenital heart disease where there is a hole in…

Connective tissue dysplasia is a name used to cover a wide range of disorders that cause weakness in the connective tissue. These include Ehlers-Danlos…

Constipation is when poo becomes too hard and difficult to pass. Get advice on diet, toilet habits, medicines and when to see a doctor.

COVID-19 is a condition caused by a virus. It affects the airways and can cause issues with breathing.

Croup is a common childhood illness that causes airway swelling, leading to difficulty breathing and a bark-like cough.

Curly toes are a common childhood condition that causes the toes to curl towards the underside of the foot.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a chronic skin infection caused by parasites spread by sandflies. It causes ulcers or scabs on the skin.

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition that mainly affects the lungs and digestive system. Learn about the symptoms, diagnosis tests and treatments.

Cystic lymphatic malformations are fluid-filled cysts caused by abnormal lymphatic vessels, often present from birth. Treatment helps to reduce size and manage…

Cytomegalovirus is a common virus that quickly spreads in children. It can remain inactive in the body and reactivate throughout your child’s life.

A dairy allergy is when your child reacts to milk from mammals like cows. A dairy allergy is different to lactose intolerance.

Daytime wetting is when a child cannot control their bladder and leaks urine while they are awake. Learn the signs, causes, treatment options and support.

Dehydration happens when a child loses more fluids from their body than they can replace through drinking. Severe dehydration can be life-threatening and needs…

Depression is a mental health condition that affects how your child or teenager thinks, feels and lives their day-to-day life.

Developmental delay is when a child develops some skills more slowly than other children of the same age. Global developmental delay is when a child is slow to…

Developmental dysplasia of the hip is a condition where a baby’s hip joint does not grow normally. It can be treated using a brace called a Pavlik harness.

Diphtheria is a severe bacterial infection of the nose and throat. It can be prevented with the diphtheria vaccine.

Down syndrome is a genetic condition that causes intellectual disability, physical differences, heart problems and hearing loss.

Dravet syndrome is a rare and lifelong type of epilepsy, usually beginning in the first year of life. Epilepsy is a long-term brain condition that causes…

An ear infection is when germs and bacteria enter the ear, causing pain and swelling. Glue ear is when fluid from the inner ear becomes thick and cannot drain…

Microtia is a condition where the ear has grown differently.

Outer, middle, and inner ear problems are common in children and should always be checked by a doctor as soon as they happen.

Eczema is a skin condition that causes itchy and inflamed patches on the skin. It is also called atopic dermatitis.

Egg allergy is when your child has an allergic reaction to foods that contain eggs. It is a common allergy in children.

Epilepsy is a long-term brain condition that causes repeated seizures.

Common eye problems in children include strabismus, amblyopia, chalazion and epiphora. Checking your child’s eyes regularly will ensure any issues are treated…

Facial nerve palsy is when the facial nerve doesn’t work properly, making it hard to control facial movements.

Familial Mediterranean fever is a genetic disorder. It causes regular, ongoing episodes of fever, swelling and pain.

A febrile convulsion or seizure is when the body loses control of movement for a short period due to a high fever.

Fever in children is a temperature over 38°C, often from infection. Learn how to check, manage at home and when to seek urgent care.

Fibrous dysplasia is a condition where normal bone is replaced by fibrous or scar-like tissue. This makes the bone weaker and increases the risk of fractures…

Fifth disease (parvovirus B19 or slapped cheek) is a common childhood virus that causes a red rash, spreads easily, and is usually mild.

Flat feet are when the arch of the foot does not develop properly and is lower than average.

Fruit and vegetable allergy is an immune reaction that can cause hives, swelling or tummy symptoms. Learn common triggers and what to do.

Functional singular ventricle is a condition where your child’s heart only has one ventricle, or lower chamber, that is strong enough to pump blood.

Gastroenteritis, or gastro, is common in babies and children. It causes cramps, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

Germ cell tumours are a type of cancer that grows in the body parts of the reproductive system, like the testicles and ovaries.

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a bacteria that causes severe and life-threatening infection and illness in children.

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a common viral infection in young children, causing spots or blisters on hands, feet, and around the mouth.

Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp and hair and feed on blood, causing severe itching. Head lice is spread through head-to-head contact.

Headaches can be a common type of pain in children and teenagers. Migraines are different from general headaches.

Hearing loss means that your child has difficulty hearing voices and other sounds. It can range from having slightly muffled hearing, to not being able to hear…

Heat exhaustion is when the body overheats and causes symptoms. Heatstroke is a severe, life-threatening condition where the body’s temperature is dangerously…

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a condition where blood vessels become inflamed, causing a rash called purpura.

Hepatitis A is a virus that causes inflammation of the liver. It is spread by contact with contaminated poo.

Hepatitis B (HBV) is a virus that can cause inflammation and damage to the liver. It spreads through contact with contaminated body fluids.

Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) is a virus that causes inflammation and damage to the liver. It is spread through contact with infected blood.

Hives (urticaria) are a type of red, raised, itchy skin rash. Learn common triggers, treatment and when to seek urgent help.

House dust mites are tiny insects that live indoors and feed on dust, pollen, and human skin cells. An allergy to house dust mites can also be linked to…

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a group of common viruses that can cause warts and long-term issues like cervical cancer.

Hydroceles are a condition where a fluid-filled sac develops inside the scrotum. Learn when the pain is urgent, and when surgery may be needed.

Hydrocephalus is a condition that happens when too much cerebrospinal fluid collects in the brain. Too much fluid causes pressure to build and damage the brain.

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome is a condition where the left side of your child’s heart does not develop properly and cannot pump blood well.

Hypospadias is a condition where the urethra comes out the underside of the penis, instead of through the tip.

Impetigo is a skin infection that causes sores, usually on the face. It is also called school sores.

Infantile Haemangiomas are common birthmarks that appear shortly after birth. They are sometimes called haemangiomas of infancy or 'strawberry birthmarks'.

Infantile spasms are a rare type of epilepsy that starts in infancy. Epilepsy is a long-term brain condition that causes repeated seizures.

Influenza, also called the flu, is a virus that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. Learn the symptoms, how to reduce spread and when to get help.

An inguinal hernia is when part of the intestines bulges through an opening in your child’s abdomen, into the groin.

Intellectual disability is a lifelong condition that affects learning and behaviour. Learn more about the signs and how to access support.

Intoeing is when a child’s feet turn inwards when they walk. This is also called pigeon toes. Find out more about the signs, symptoms and when to seek support.

Group A streptococcus (Strep A) is a type of bacteria found on the skin and in the throat. It causes many common childhood illnesses and can lead to severe…

Jaundice is a common condition in newborn babies. It causes the skin and the white parts of the eyes to look yellow.

Joint hypermobility is when some joints in a child’s body can move further than normal. Learn about the signs and how to manage pain or instability.

Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is an autoimmune disease that affects the skin and muscles.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a group of autoimmune conditions where the body attacks healthy cells. The disease is characterised by joint…

Kawasaki disease is a rare disease that causes inflammation of the blood vessels all over the body. Learn about the symptoms, hospital treatment and heart…

Malrotation is a difference in how the bowel is positioned in the abdomen. Volvulus is when the bowel twists and cuts off its blood supply. Ladd's…

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare immune condition in children that can affect one or many parts of the body and may need treatment from a cancer…

Latex is a natural rubber commonly used in household and medical products. Allergic reactions to latex in children are uncommon but can be severe.

Lead is a toxic natural metal that the body cannot process. Lead exposure and poisoning can cause long-term illness and disability.

Leukaemia is a cancer in the white blood cells and the body tissue that makes them, called the bone marrow.

Liver cancers are tumours that grow in the liver. The two most common types of liver cancers in children are Hepatoblastoma and Hepatocellular Carcinoma.

Localised scleroderma is a condition that causes redness, swelling and thickening of the skin.

Learn how parents and carers can support a child with illness or disability while looking after their own wellbeing.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and damage to the body tissue like the skin, joints, and organs.

Lymphoedema is a long-term condition where fluid builds up in body tissues due to problems with the lymphatic system, causing swelling and needing ongoing care.

Lymphomas are cancers that grow in the lymph nodes. They spread quickly and affect the body’s ability to fight illness and infection.

Mastitis is a common infection in the breast tissue that can happen while breastfeeding or expressing milk.

Measles is a virus that spreads easily and causes severe illness in children. It can be prevented with vaccination.

Meningitis is a serious infection that causes swelling around the brain and spinal cord and needs urgent medical care.

Meningococcal is a life-threatening infection in children that spreads through saliva and can cause meningitis, sepsis, and long-term complications.

Migraines are a brain condition that can cause severe headaches, pain, nausea and sensitivity to light in children.

Multi-resistant organisms are types of harmful bacteria that cannot be killed using common antibiotics.

Mumps is a contagious viral infection that causes fever and swollen salivary glands, and can lead to serious complications. It can be prevented with…

Nappy rash is a common condition in babies where the skin becomes red, painful, and inflamed after contact with wee and poo.

Neural tube defects are serious birth conditions affecting the brain and spine. The risk can be lowered by taking folic acid before and during early pregnancy.

Neuroblastoma is a cancer that grows in the cells of the nerves. It is one of the most common tumours in children.

Neurogenic bladder is a condition where a child cannot control their urine due to brain, spinal cord or nerve issues.

Neurogenic bowel is a condition where a child cannot control their poo and gas due to brain, spinal cord or nerve issues.

Oesophageal atresia is a condition where the oesophagus doesn't develop properly, preventing food from reaching the stomach. Tracheo-oesophageal fistula is an…

Osgood-Schlatter disease causes slow-growing pain and swelling in the growth plate just below the kneecap.

Pain in children can be acute or ongoing and may be hard to spot. Learn how to recognise pain, ease discomfort and when to seek help.

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) is a condition where a heart vessel does not close properly after birth.

Patent Ductus Arteriosus, also called a PDA, is a condition where part of the heart does not close properly after birth. 

Peanut allergy is an immune reaction that can cause hives, swelling or anaphylaxis. Learn more about the symptoms, treatment and management.

Perthes disease is a childhood condition where the top of the thigh bone temporarily loses blood supply, causing hip pain and stiffness.

Phytophotodermatitis is a rare type of chemical skin reaction that happens when chemicals on the skin are exposed to sunlight. The chemical that causes this…

Pierre Robin Syndrome is a rare condition that develops in babies during pregnancy, affecting the jaw, tongue and airway.

Pneumococcal disease is a serious bacterial infection that can cause conditions like pneumonia, meningitis, and bloodstream infections, especially in young…

Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by a virus or bacteria. Pneumonia makes it difficult for your child to breathe and reduces the amount of oxygen…

Poliomyelitis, or polio, is a condition caused by a virus. It affects the nerves in the spinal cord and brain stem and can cause permanent disability.

Positional plagiocephaly is a condition where the shape of a baby’s head becomes flat or uneven. Learn more about repositioning and when to get help.

Post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) is a temporary period of confusion and memory loss after a traumatic brain injury in children.

Pressure injuries are skin and tissue damage caused by ongoing pressure, rubbing, or friction, often from staying in one position too long.

Reflux, or gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR), is when food and acid from the stomach come back up into the oesophagus or mouth after eating.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a virus that can cause the common cold and more severe infections in young children.

Retinoblastomas are tumours that grow in the back part of the eye, called the retina.

Rhabdoid tumours are rare and aggressive cancers in soft tissue, organs, and the central nervous system.

Rotavirus is a highly contagious virus that causes severe diarrhoea and vomiting in babies and young children.

Rubella is a viral illness causing rash and joint pain in children, and serious risks to unborn babies, preventable through vaccination.

Sarcomas are a type of cancer that can grow anywhere in the body. They can affect bones and soft tissues, such as muscle and skin.

Scabies is a skin condition caused by tiny mites that burrow under the skin, causing strong itching and a rash.

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves sideways instead of being straight, often during childhood or adolescence.

Some children are allergic to seafood including fish, molluscs, and crustaceans. Learn more about the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and management of seafood…

Seizures are uncontrolled changes in your child’s movement and behaviour. They are caused by a disruption in the brain's normal electrical activity.

Some children are allergic to foods and products made with sesame seeds. Learn more about the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and management of sesame seed…

Sever’s disease causes slow-growing pain and swelling in the heel of the foot in children aged 9 - 13.

Some signs and symptoms of illness can mean that your child is very unwell and needs medical attention.

Craniosynostosis is when one suture or band of tissue between the bones in a baby’s skull closes too early.

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a condition where the head of the femur slips out of place, causing pain and movement issues. It mostly affects…

A sore throat, or pharyngitis, is when your child’s throat is red, swollen, and painful. It can be caused by viral or bacterial infections.

Some children are allergic to products made from soybeans. Learn more about the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and management of soy allergy in children.

Spina bifida is a life-long condition affecting the development of a baby’s spine and spinal cord, requiring ongoing medical care and support.

This factsheet provides information about managing and living with a spinal cord injury in children.

Spinal cord lipomas and lipomyelomeningoceles are fatty lumps near the spinal cord that can cause spinal canal abnormalities and related symptoms.

Stress fracture of the pars interarticularis is a painful condition where there is a break in the small bones of the spine.

Stuttering is a disorder that affects the flow of speech. Learn more about the signs and treatment options for younger and older children.

Chronic illness is a long-term health condition, and support is available to help children and families manage daily life.

Craniosynostosis is when multiple sutures or bands of tissue between the bones in a baby’s skull close too early. This is usually linked to a genetic syndrome.

Systematic, juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a rare, severe autoinflammatory condition that affects, the joints, body tissue and organs.

Tetanus, also called lockjaw, is a serious disease infection from bacteria in soil that affects the nerves and muscles but can be prevented with vaccination.

Tethered cord syndrome happens when the spinal cord is stuck to the spine and can’t move freely. This can lead to long-term damage if not treated.

Tetralogy of Fallot is a rare condition where a baby is born with four different defects in the heart that affect the way their blood flows. Hypercyanotic…

Tracheal stenosis is a condition where the rings of the windpipe become rigid, making it difficult to breathe.

Transposition of the great arteries (TGA) is a rare and severe heart condition where the two main arteries leaving the heart are reversed, affecting how blood…

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a type of acquired brain injury (ABI) caused by a sudden blow or force to the head that affects how the brain works.

Tree nut allergies are one of the most common and severe allergies in children. They are more likely to cause anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.

Trichotillomania is when a child feels the urge to pull out their hair. Learn more about treatment options and when to seek support.

Trigger thumb in children is a condition where it becomes difficult to bend or straighten the thumb. It is also known as stenosing tenosynovitis.

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infection that affects different body parts but is mostly found in the lungs.

Type 1 diabetes is a life-long condition that stops your child's pancreas from making insulin properly.

Type 2 diabetes is a condition that affects the way your child's pancreas makes insulin.

An umbilical granuloma is a small, soft, pink or grey lump that forms on a baby's new belly button. Umbilical granulomas should clear up on their own over time.

An umbilical hernia is when a bulge can be felt or seen at the umbilicus, also known as the belly button.

Undescended testes are when one or both testes do not move down into the scrotum in male babies before birth. Orchidopexy is the surgery used to fix…

Urinary tract infections can be common. They may cause pain, fever or changes in wee. Learn symptoms, tests, treatment and when to see a doctor.

Uveitis is an eye condition that can happen in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. It causes inflammation in the tissue of the eye.

Venous malformations are abnormal, tangled veins that can cause pain, swelling or discolouration in children. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and…

A VSD, sometimes called a hole in the heart, is a hole in the wall between the heart’s bottom chambers that lets blood flow between them.

Viral-induced wheeze is a condition in young children where they make a whistling sound when breathing out.

Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a lung infection that causes forceful coughing.

Wilms Tumours are cancers that grow on one or both kidneys.

Wounds are any damage or breaks in the skin. This can include cuts, scrapes, and lacerations. Some minor wounds can be treated at home. More severe wounds may…

A Wrist buckle fracture is when a small bone in the wrist bulges out instead of breaking.