Sunken or Pigeon Chest? A Parent’s Guide to Pectus

Host Holly Wayment talks to Pediatric GI specialist Dr. Anandini Suri who explains that constipation in children is often behavioral, frequently starting with rushed toilet training. She recommends patient toilet training, proper toilet posture with a stool under the feet, limiting screen time during bathroom visits, plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, adequate fluids, and regular outdoor activity. For belly pain, try simple breathing exercises (for example, inhale 6 seconds, hold 3, exhale 8) and seek medical care if pain is severe, sudden, or accompanied by blood. See a pediatrician if your child has fewer than three to four soft stools a week or if home measures don’t help. Probiotic or prebiotic drinks are generally safe but not proven to relieve constipation.

Dr. Sarah Marucci joins Pediatrics Host Holly Wayment on Pediatrics Now for Parents to explain common gut symptoms, warning signs that need medical attention, and why everyday choices matter more than trendy supplements. They discuss diet, probiotics, fermented foods, H. pylori testing, and how gut health uniquely affects girls and women. Practical takeaways: focus on fiber and varied foods, watch for bleeding or sudden weight loss, keep open conversations with kids about bowel habits, and seek care when symptoms persist.

Host Holly Wayment interviews Dr. Alice Gong where she explains explains newborn screening: a few drops of blood (done at 24–48 hours and again at 7–14 days in Texas) detect dozens of conditions early so babies who look well can get life-saving treatment. The episode covers blood screening, hearing and critical congenital heart disease checks, common conditions like PKU, new treatments such as gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy, and the importance of timely follow-up with your pediatrician.

Host Holly Wayment speaks with pediatric infectious disease expert Dr. Deena Sutter about pertussis (whooping cough) and the approaching flu season. They explain how pertussis spreads, why maternal Tdap during pregnancy protects newborns, and when exposed family members should get antibiotics or seek care. They also discuss signs of severe illness in infants, practical tips like nasal suctioning for young babies, and the importance of timely vaccinations—especially flu shots—to reduce severe cases and hospitalizations this season.

In this episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents, I’m talk with Dr. Ian Mitchell about two common chest wall differences in children—pectus excavatum (a sunken chest) and pectus carinatum (a chest that sticks out). If your child has recently been diagnosed, this conversation will help you better understand what it means, what to expect, and what your options are. And if you’ve simply noticed a difference in your child’s chest, we’ll walk through when it’s something to keep an eye on—and when to seek care. We cover what causes these conditions, whether they run in families, and the different treatment options—from non-surgical approaches like bracing or a vacuum bell, to surgery when needed—and what recovery looks like. Just as important, we talk about how this can affect a child’s confidence and why listening to their feelings matters just as much as the physical side. Clear, reassuring guidance for parents—whether you’re just noticing something or already navigating a diagnosis.

Join Host Holly Wayment and national feeding expert Dr. Cynthia Blanco,  where Dr. Blanco explains the FDA approval of goat milk infant formula, how it compares to cow's milk and human breast milk, and why breastfeeding remains the optimal nutrition for babies. She urges parents to use only FDA-approved infant formulas (not whole milk), follow pediatric advice, be patient with common infant issues like reflux or colic, and ensure babies are thriving and gaining weight.

Learn how to recognize tics, when to see your pediatrician, and why most tics are harmless and treatable. Videotaping movements and getting the right diagnosis are key first steps. Dr. Sheldon Gross explains common motor and vocal tics, their impact on a child’s well-being, and when referrals to specialists may help. The focus is on support, evaluation, and simple steps parents can take.

Host Holly Wayment interviews this highly experienced pediatric psychiatrist .  Dr. Boddapadi  explains that autism has no single cause — it’s multifactorial, involving strong genetic risks and environmental factors.  Vaccines have been ruled out as a cause, and  evidence  shows a very weak association with Tylenol. The conversation emphasizes taking care of maternal health, discussing medications with clinicians, following evidence-based guidance, and the importance of early identification and support for children with autism. 

Its back! Host and Executive Producer Holly Wayment interviews Jacklynn Ware of Project YES, a free, evidence-based online mental health resource for teens with short, anonymous modules that cover mood, anxiety, body image, safety planning, and more.  Its back, better than ever, right when teens need it more that ever.  And that includes the option of watching a video of the "World's Most Adorable Porcupine" chomp on a pumpkin. Accessible on phones, tablets, and computers, it includes crisis check-ins for warning signs and creates action plans at the end of modules. Designed for teens but helpful for parents, schools, and caregivers.  

Join Host Holly Wayment and UT Health San Antonio and University Health's Infectious disease specialist Dr. Deena Sutter.   They discuss recent Chikungunya outbreaks, how mosquito-borne viruses (chikungunya, dengue, Zika) spread, and who is most at risk. Dr. Sutter explains symptoms—especially Chikungunya’s debilitating joint pain—and severe outcomes for newborns and the elderly. Dr. Sutter reviews practical prevention: remove standing water, use EPA‑approved repellents (DEET or picaridin) appropriately, wear long sleeves when needed, keep screens and air conditioning, and maintain flea prevention for pets to avoid flea‑borne typhus. She also advises when to see a doctor for fever, rash, or concerning exposures.