A child coughs because there is
extra mucus somewhere in his upper respiratory system.
The cough reflex is designed to rid his body of the
mucus and is in itself valuable. The most common
reason for a cough is usually a simple cold. Mucus
that does not appear as nasal discharge trickles down
the throat, tickles, and produces a cough. However,
mucus may be deep in the lungs as well as in nasal
passages.
If your child has a cough
that is accompanied by noisy, difficult or painful
breathing; or if he sucks in his lower ribs and/or
distends his nostrils, he may be in serious
respiratory difficulty. Consult your doctor.
If enough mucus drains down
the throat and into the stomach, or if your child
swallows enough coughed-up mucus, it can make him sick
and he will vomit. Although unpleasant, the vomiting
is not a bad thing.
Colds are
caused by viral infections. Sitting in drafts, having
wet feet, or going without a sweater cannot cause a
cold. Because the cause is a virus, antibiotics are
not required nor do they provide relief.
Babies are bothered by colds
because it is impossible to suck if the nose is
stuffed and prevents breathing.
Older children are seldom
ill, merely uncomfortable. Help your child by teaching
effective nose blowing -- by closing one nostril with
a finger while blowing the other. A cool mist
humidifier may also provide relief; however, the
machine must be cleaned regularly or it may spew
allergens into the air. The best way to clear a stuffy
nose is with a saline (salt water) nasal solution that
can be sprayed into the nose. Saline solutions may be
purchased at the pharmacy or drug store or you can mix
a quarter teaspoon of salt with one cup of water and
have your child take a deep whiff every two hours as
needed.
In some cases, colds get
worse before they get better. Complications
occasionally may lead to a secondary infection such as
bronchitis, pneumonia, or an ear-infection. Suspect a
secondary infection if a child runs a fever after the
first day, has a thick, greenish-yellow nasal
discharge, a thick or wheezy cough, continued sore
throat, ear ache, or seems ill, lethargic, and lacking
in appetite. If the cold begins to look "unusual", see
your doctor for a diagnosis.
Influenza, commonly referred to
as the flu, is an infection of the respiratory system
that generally occurs between late November and early
spring.
The infection begins
suddenly, and the non-respiratory symptoms include
headache, chills, muscle aches and high fever, which
may last from five to seven days. A cough and "tired
feeling" may persist for an additional two to three
weeks after the acute symptoms disappear.
The flu is highly contagious
and can spread from person to person by direct contact
and by contact with respiratory secretions from
infected individuals. School-age children are the
primary targets of the infection, and they spread the
disease to younger children and adults.
The three major viruses that
cause the disease have the ability to make major or
minor changes in their structure. For this reason,
individuals are susceptible to becoming infected each
time the virus changes. This is why vaccinations are
required on an annual basis for adults and children
with chronic diseases.
The conditions that most
people refer to as the flu are not generally true
influenza but one of the common respiratory viruses.
The Flu is more than a bad
cold, however, it is not caused by bacteria and, as
such, antibiotics are neither indicated nor effective
in treating the infection.
Vaccination is the best way
to prevent the disease and, contrary to public
opinion, is safe. Routine influenza vaccination of
healthy children has not been recommended by public
health officials, but is safe and effective. The
decision of whether or not to vaccinate a child should
be a mutual decision between the child's parents and
pediatrician.
Flu treatment consists
primarily of rest, fluids and fever-lowering drugs
such as Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen. Aspirin should
not be given to children because of the resulting
increased risk for Reye's syndrome. Whether or not to
use amantadine, an antiviral drug effective against
the virus, is a decision that should be made by the
child's physician.
Respiratory
syncytial virus (RSV), a common cause of lower
respiratory infections in infants and children, occurs
in the Northern Hemisphere during the months of
November through April. In the United States alone,
approximately 90,000 children are hospitalized due to
RSV illnesses and 2 percent die each year.
Virtually all
children get RSV, but for otherwise healthy children,
RSV usually amounts to little more than a cold. For
at-risk infants, such as those born prematurely or
those who suffer from a chronic lung condition known
as bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), the consequences
can be more serious.
Common
symptoms of RSV include a low-grade fever, runny nose
and other cold-like symptoms, such as coughing,
difficulty breathing, wheezing and rapid breathing.
The virus
spreads easily from person to person. To help reduce
exposure, physicians recommend:
Have family
members and caregivers wash their hands with warm
water and soap before touching the baby.
Avoid being
around the baby if you have cold or fever.
Keep your
baby away from crowded places
Do not
smoke around the baby.
If you have a
low birth weight baby or a high-risk baby, consult
your pediatrician regarding immunization options.
One of the most common problems
pediatricians see is ear infection. Almost half of all
children will have at least one middle-ear infection
during their first year and by age three, two-thirds
of all children will have had a middle-ear infection.
Bacteria entering the middle
ear from the nose or throat are the major culprit.
When these germs multiply, fever occurs, pus
accumulates and pressure builds up behind the eardrum,
causing pain that ranges from mild to severe. Nasal
congestion, cough and conjunctivitis or "pinkeye" -
signs associated with a viral infection - often
precede the ear infection.
Symptoms include ear pain,
fever, irritability or, in older children, dizziness.
Parents should also look for subtle signs, too, like
decreased activity or appetite, or head shaking in
infants or young children.
Occasionally, the pressure in
the middle ear will build up to a point where the
eardrum bursts, resulting in pus and blood drainage
from the ear.
As alarming as this seems,
this generally results in a decrease in the fever and
pain. The tear in the eardrum allows the infected
inner ear contents to drain and the hole usually heals
within a few days after antibiotics are started.
Ear infections rarely require
emergency medical attention unless the pain is severe
and persists for several hours, or the child exhibits
excessive drowsiness, extreme irritability or a lack
of response to his or her environment.
Acetaminophen generally
provides temporary relief of the fever and ear pain
and can be administered until a physician evaluates
the child.
Parents sometimes stop giving
prescribed medication when the fever disappears or the
child says the pain is gone. Although the "ache" often
goes away in hours to days, it may take several weeks
for antibiotics to rid the ear of infection.
Ear infections are not in
themselves contagious. However, the viral infections
that often accompany them can be transmitted to other
people. Once antibiotic therapy is started, the child
may return to school or day care if the fever is gone.
Unfortunately, a number of
children have recurrent middle-ear infections;
however, there is no way to predict in which children
this will occur. Children who have repeated middle-ear
infections generally have abnormalities of their
Eustachian tube, the passage between the throat and
the middle ear. Most of the time, these abnormalities
are temporary and resolve by school age. In other
cases, surgery to insert drainage tubes into the ears
is required.
Many
parents worry unnecessarily about children's fevers,
fearing that they may cause brain damage or other
serious medical complications. A fever is the body's
normal response to infections and plays a role in
fighting them by activating the body's immune system.
A baby has a fever if his or
her temperature is higher than 98.6° F when taken
under the arm, or 100.4° F degrees with a rectal
thermometer. Fevers can be caused by viral or
bacterial illness. Teething rarely causes a fever; if
it does, the fever is seldom higher than 101° F.
Since a fever may be the
first sign of illness, watch your infant/child for
other signs.
If your baby feels warm take
his or her temperature. If your baby has a fever, but
doesn't appear ill, try removing a layer of clothing
and recheck the temperature in one-half tone hour.
If an infant's fever is
higher than 101°F there is cause for concern. The
danger zone for children three months of age and older
is when a fever occurs in the 105°F-plus range.
If the high temperature is
accompanied by difficult breathing, pale skin, a dry
mouth, or poor reaction to stimulation, a physician
should see the child immediately.
To treat your baby's fever:
Offer plenty of fluids
For fevers 100°F t102°F
liquids and less clothing may be the only treatment
necessary.
Notify your health care
provider before giving medicine (Acetaminophen or
ibuprophen) to reduce fever. Remember, fevers help
your baby's body fight infection.
Do not give aspirin to
your baby. Aspirin use in children has been
associated with Reye's Syndrome, a severe illness.
Sponge baths using tepid
water are often useful, provided that the child is
not allowed to become chilled. Shivering will only
increase the fever. Alcohol sponge baths are
dangerous and should never be used. Infants and
children can absorb the alcohol through the skin.
When your child has a fever,
call your health care provider if:
Your baby looks or acts
very sick or is crying inconsolably or whimpering.
Your baby is younger than
3 months old and has a fever
The fever is higher than
101 in babies older than 3 months
You baby is difficult to
awaken or has a decrease in normal activity
Your baby has a stiff neck
and cries if you touch him or her.
Your baby has rapid,
noisy, or difficult breathing.
Your baby has a poor
appetite or as repeated vomiting or diarrhea
There are any changes in
appearance of the skin such as yellowing, purple
blotches/spots or a rash
The fever has been present
more than 72 hours or went away for 24 hours and
then returned.
Your baby is fussy and
appears to have burning or pain with urination
Your baby has unusual
behaviors (trust your feelings).
Most
vomiting is caused by gastroenteritis, a viral
infection of the gastrointestinal tract. These
infections are usually short-lived and are more
disruptive than damaging. Your most important
intervention may be your bedside manner - vomiting is
frightening for young children and exhausting for
children of all ages. Supplement these time-tested
routines with plenty of reassurance.
What to Do:
Rest the stomach. This may be
easier said than done with a small child, who doesn't
understand what's happening and is longing for a big
drink of water. Try to wait a few hours, and then
offer small sips of water, ice chips, soda, or a cold,
wet washcloth to suck. Contrary to popular belief,
there's no need to wait until the soda goes flat.
If sips of water are not
tolerated, you may wish to consult your doctor about
an over-the-counter nausea medication. If your doctor
approves, ask about the correct dose for your child.
If sips of water are
tolerated, slowly increase the amount of liquids you
give your child. Then you can try other clear liquids.
Milk and milk products should
be avoided.
It's essential to replace the
electrolytes and fluid you child has lost. Pedialite
is available at drugstores, but Gatorade is a good
substitute. For a hard-to-resist-treat, pour Gatorade
into an ice cube tray and freeze.
Introduce foods gradually.
Wait for your child to say she's hungry, and then
start with dry toast or crackers.
Your school-age child will
probably tell you when she is ready to eat heavier
food, and you can generally trust her judgment and
give her what she asks for. With a younger child,
stick with bland, starchy foods like potatoes and rice
until you're sure she's out of the woods.
The greatest risk of
vomiting due to gastroenteritis is dehydration. Call
your doctor if your child has diarrhea, refuses
fluids, is not urinating, cries without tears, has a
dry mouth, or seems confused. You should also call if
vomiting persists more than two days, which increases
the risk of dehydration.
The following symptoms may
indicate a condition more serious than gastroenteritis
and require immediate medical attention:
projectile vomiting in an
infant
vomiting accompanied by
fever
repeated vomiting of green
or yellow bile
stomach feels hard and
bloated in between vomiting episodes
Gastrointestinal infections usually cause diarrhea -
frequent and watery bowel movements. Parasites,
viruses, or bacteria can all cause diarrhea
infections, which means that a child can exhibit a
variety of symptoms. Symptoms usually start with
crampy, abdominal pain followed by diarrhea. This
usually lasts a few days but can last longer in some
cases.
In the United States, the
rotavirus is the most common cause of diarrhea
infections. Hand washing is the most effective means
of preventing diarrhea infections that are passed from
person to person. Dirty hands carry infectious germs
into the body when a child bits his nails or puts any
part of his hands into his mouth. Children should wash
their hands frequently, especially after using the
toilet and before eating.
The immediate goal of
treatment of all diarrhea illnesses is to maintain
adequate fluid intake. Infants and small children
should not be re-hydrated with water alone because it
does not contain adequate amounts of sodium,
potassium, and other important nutrients. Pedialite or
Gatorade can help provide those essential nutrients
and balance electrolytes.
Call your child's doctor
immediately if the diarrhea lasts more than a few days
or if your child seems to be dehydrated. Signs of
dehydration include dry lips and tongue, skin that is
pale and dry, sunken eyes, listlessness or decreased
activity, and decreased urination (such as fewer than
six wet diapers a day in an infant).
Although tooth decay is not as common as it used to
be, it is still one of the most common diseases in
children. Many children still get cavities. While
fluoridated drinking water and fluoride-containing
toothpaste have helped to improve the oral health of
both children and adults, regular tooth brushing and a
well-balanced diet are still very important to
maintaining good oral health.
Primary, or baby, teeth
commonly begin to come in or erupt in a baby's mouth
at about 4 to 6 months of age and continue until all
20 have come in at about the age of 2-1/2 years. This
eruption of primary teeth, or teething, can cause sore
and tender gums that appear red and puffy. To relieve
the soreness, give the baby a cold teething ring or
washcloth to chew on. Teething medicine is not
recommended.
Many primary teeth will not
be replaced by permanent teeth for 10 to 12 years.
Until that time, they need to be kept healthy to
enable a child to chew food, speak, and have an
attractive smile. Primary teeth are at risk for decay
soon after they erupt. Tooth decay is caused by germs
(bacteria) and sugars from food or liquids building up
on a tooth. Over time, these bacteria dissolve the
enamel, or outer layer, of the tooth. This damaged
area is called a cavity. Regular brushing prevents the
build-up of bacteria and sugars and the damage they
cause.
Baby bottle tooth decay (or
nursing bottle mouth) is a leading dental problem for
children under 3 years of age. Baby bottle tooth decay
occurs when a child's teeth are exposed to sugary
liquids, such as formula, fruit juices, and other
sweetened liquids for a continuous, extended period of
time. The practice of putting a baby to bed with a
bottle, which the baby can suck on for hours, is the
major cause of this dental condition. The sugary
liquid flows over the baby's upper front teeth and
dissolves the enamel, causing decay that can lead to
infection. The longer the practice continues, the
greater the damage to the baby's teeth and mouth.
Treatment is very expensive.
The American Academy of
Pediatric Dentistry has developed the following
guidelines for preventing baby bottle tooth decay:
Don't allow a child to
fall asleep with a bottle containing milk, formula,
fruit juices, or other sweet liquids. Never let a
child walk with a bottle in her mouth.
Comfort a child who wants
a bottle between regular feedings or during naps
with a bottle filled with cool water.
Always make sure a child's
pacifier is clean and never dip a pacifier in a
sweet liquid.
Introduce children to a
cup as they approach 1 year of age. Children should
stop drinking from a bottle soon after their first
birthday.
If you notice any unusual
red or swollen areas in a child's mouth or any dark
spot on a child's tooth consult a pediatric dentist.
Stomachaches are difficult to
cope with because it can herald an acute abdominal
emergency such as appendicitis, or nothing at all.
Decide whether or not to call the doctor on the basis
of:
How severe the pain is
How long it lasts
How ill the child seems
Any other symptoms
In babies, a stomachache can
cause the infant to scream and to draw his legs and
thighs up to his tummy. Intense stomachache can be
caused by gas that needs to be expelled. Hold, burp,
and walk. If cuddling comforts him, and he seems
otherwise well, you can afford to wait for other
symptoms.
If burping and cuddling
doesn't comfort him, although he seems otherwise well,
he might have colic.
If your baby has a fever,
diarrhea, vomiting, and/or seems ill, and cries for
more than two hours without cease, call the doctor.
Young children often cannot
help locate pain accurately or differentiate pain from
nausea. If your child seems very ill, has other
symptoms, or has such severe pain that he cries, lies
curled up, and walks bent double, call the doctor at
once.
If the pain is milder and or
there are no other symptoms, wait a few hours and
phone for advice if the pain is still bothering him.
Sometimes, children get
periodic bouts of stomachache as a reaction to stress.
Treat your child with sympathy -- the pain hurts as
much as one caused by a germ) and try to relieve the
stress-cause. Provide reassurance, affection, and
distraction.
Colic
Colic most often develops
during the first month of life. Normal crying is an
indicator of hunger, a wet diaper, or the need to be
held. Colic-y babies exhibit no identifiable reasons
for crying but do so without ceasing for between 60 to
90 minutes every day during the first three weeks of
life. Crying often increases to two to four hours of
crying each day by six weeks and gradually decreases
by 3 months of age.
No one knows the cause of
colic, although some theories suggest immature
digestive system, food allergies, abdominal gas or
sensitivity to a busy, noisy home. Crying happens
about the same time of day each day, often during the
late afternoon or early evening.
If your baby is crying, try
to find out why. Check to see if the baby is hungry;
needs a diaper change, is too warm/too cold, tired,
scared, hurt, lonely, bored, etc.
If you can't find a reason
for the crying, you may want to try different things
to soothe your baby. No method will work every time,
but you can try:
Feeding your baby slowly
in an upright position and burping the baby at least
once during and after the feeding.
Not letting your baby get
hungry, but not over feeding.
Cuddling, swaddling, or
carrying your baby in your arms
Rocking your baby in your
arms, cradle, or infant swing.
Push your baby in a
stroller or carriage
Take your baby for a ride
in the car using a car seat
Wrap your baby in a
blanket
Lay your baby on a warm
blanket
Give your baby a warm bath
When your baby is awake,
lay your baby on its tummy and pat/rub the baby's
back.
Massage your baby
Lay your baby down on his
back for a nap
Darken your baby's room at
naptime
Allow your baby time alone
to settle and go to sleep
Keep the noise level and
stimulation down if baby is upset
Take care of yourself and
rest
Take naps when baby is
napping
Try to relax so your baby
doesn't feel your stress
Call a friend or relative
for support
Give yourself a break by
having someone else watch your baby
Talk with your healthcare
provider
Give infant chiropractic
care a try
Change baby's formula if
you're not breast feeding
No one knows why babies get
colic. It isn't your fault the baby has colic. It can
be frustrating and upsetting. NEVER shake your baby.
Call your physician if:
Your baby's cry becomes a
painful cry rather than a fussy cry
If your baby cries
constantly for more than 2 hours
If your baby vomits more
than three times in 24 hours
Sore throats are one of the
symptoms associated with colds, coughs, and other
infections involving the throat including strep
throat.
Since the sore throat is a
symptom, most often treatment is designed to provide
relief and comfort.
Both warm and cool liquids
can be soothing. Hot water infused with lemon and
sugar or lightly brewed tea can be comforting. Making
a tea party out of the treatment and serving the
soothing liquid in special cups can also prove
distracting as well. A cool treat could include
Gatorade ice cubes to suck on or an applesauce slushy
which, when placed in a small container, will freeze
to a thick but still icy consistency in about 15
minutes.
If the sore throat is
accompanied by a fever, or if it persists for several
days, consult your doctor.
Varicella, or chicken pox, is
one of the most common infectious diseases. Nearly
four million people in the United States contract
Chicken Pox each year, primarily preschool and school
age children. In addition to being widespread, Chicken
Pox is also one of the most communicable of all common
infectious diseases, affecting nearly 95 percent of
all people before adulthood.
Chickenpox has a
characteristic itchy rash, which then forms blisters
that dry and become scabs in 4-5 days. The rash may be
the first sign of illness, sometimes coupled with
fever and general malaise, which is usually more
severe in adults. An infected person may have anywhere
from only a few lesions to more than 500 lesions on
his or her body during an attack. The average is
300-400
Chickenpox is contagious 1-2
days before the rash appears and until all blisters
have formed scabs. Chickenpox develops within 10-21
days after contact with an infected person. Each child
who contracts chicken pox misses approximately eight
days of school or six days of day care.
Chicken pox is the itchiest
when it is first forming; however, it is very
important to prevent scratching that can cause
scaring. While it only treats the symptoms,
pharmacists often recommend Avena (ground oatmeal)
baths that soothe and coat the rash to reduce itching
and scratching.
After years of research and
testing, the Food and Drug Administration licensed the
Chicken Pox vaccine in March 1995. The vaccine is
recommended for children over 12 months of age who
have not had the disease. The Committee on Infectious
Diseases of the American Academy of Pediatrics
recommended "universal use in early childhood and
immunization in older children and adolescents."
Although many states have not
made chicken pox vaccine a mandatory requirement for
children attending public schools, they will probably
do so in the near future.
Measles is a highly
contagious, fever-producing disease caused by a
virus, different from the virus that causes the
less serious disease German measles, or rubella.
Measles is characterized by small red dots
appearing on the surface of the skin, irritation
of the eyes (especially on exposure to light),
coughing, and a runny nose. About 12 days after
first exposure, the fever, sneezing, and runny
nose appear. Coughing and swelling of the neck
glands often follow. Four days later, red spots
appear on the face or neck and then on the trunk
and limbs. In 2 or 3 days the rash subsides and
the fever falls; some peeling of the involved skin
areas may take place. Infection of the middle ear
may also occur.
Measles was formerly one
of the most common childhood diseases. Since the
development of an effective vaccine in 1963, it
has become much less frequent. By 1988, annual
measles cases in the U.S. had been reduced to
fewer than 3,500, compared with about 500,000 per
year in the early 1960s.
No specific treatment for
measles exists. Patients are kept isolated from
other susceptible individuals, usually resting in
bed, and are treated with Ibuprophen, cough syrup,
and skin lotions to lessen fever, coughing, and
itching. The disease usually confers immunity
after one attack, and an immune pregnant woman
passes the antibody through the placenta to her
fetus.
Diphtheria is a disease
caused by a bacteria, Corynebacterium diphtheriae,
which invades the throat. Diphtheria is usually
spread through the airborne route or through
contact with saliva or nasal secretions of an
infected person. Up-to-date vaccination with the
DTP (diphtheria is the "D") vaccine can prevent
this very serious, life-threatening disease.
Because almost all
children are vaccinated, diphtheria is now rare in
the United States.
Hepatitis B is an infection
of the liver caused by the hepatitis B virus
(HBV). Only about 10 percent of children who
become infected with HBV show any symptoms. When
children do have symptoms, they are most often
fatigue, loss of appetite, jaundice, dark urine,
light stools, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal
pain.
Hepatitis B is a serious
infection. After infection with HBV, chronic
infection develops in 70% to 90% of infants, 15%
to 25% of 1- to 4-year-old children, and 5% to 10%
of older children and adults. Premature death from
cirrhosis or liver cancer occurs in 15% to 25% of
persons with chronic infection. Persons who
develop chronic HBV infection may remain
infectious for the rest of their lives.
HBV infection in children
is most commonly spread by infected mothers who
pass the disease to newborn infants through blood
exposure at birth or through exposure of cuts or
mucous membranes to contaminated blood. HBV
infection can also be transmitted if infected
blood or body fluids come in contact with
non-intact skin of an uninfected person, such as
by biting, if the skin is broken.
Hepatitis B is
vaccine-preventable. All infants should be
vaccinated with three doses of hepatitis B vaccine
during the first 18 months of life. A child not
previously vaccinated should receive three doses
of vaccine by the age of 11 or 12 years. To reduce
the spread of hepatitis B:
Make sure that all
children and adults use good hand washing
practices.
Meningitis is an
inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain
and spinal cord. The cause of this inflammation is
infection with either bacteria or viruses.
Meningitis caused by a
bacterial infection (sometimes called spinal
meningitis) is one of the most serious types,
sometimes leading to permanent brain damage or
even death. Bacterial meningitis is most commonly
caused by bacteria called Neisseria meningitidis
(meningococcal meningitis), Streptococcus
pneumoniae, or Haemophilus influenzae serotype b
(H. flu meningitis). These bacteria are carried in
the upper back part of the throat of an infected
person and are spread either through the air (when
the person coughs or sneezes organisms into the
air) or by direct contact with secretions.
Transmission usually occurs only after very close
contact with the infected person.
Symptoms of bacterial
meningitis include sudden onset of fever,
headache, neck pain or stiffness, vomiting (often
without abdominal complaints), and irritability.
These symptoms may quickly progress to decreased
consciousness (difficulty in being aroused),
convulsions, and death. For this reason, if any
child displays symptoms of possible meningitis, he
or she should receive medical care immediately.
Meningitis caused by
Haemophilus influenza serotype b (Hib) can be
prevented with Hib vaccine, which is part of
routine childhood immunizations. Some cases of
meningococcal meningitis can also be prevented by
vaccine. However, this vaccine is not used
routinely, and usually only during outbreaks or in
high risk children.
Children with bacterial
meningitis are almost always hospitalized.
Mumps
is an acute viral disease characterized by fever,
swelling and tenderness of one or more of the
salivary glands. Although older people may
contract the disease, mumps usually occurs in
children between the ages of five and 15. Mumps
occurs less regularly than other common childhood
communicable diseases. The greatest risk of
infection occurs among older children, especially
during winter and spring.
Mumps is transmitted by
direct contact with saliva and discharges from the
nose and throat of infected individuals. The
incubation period is usually 16 to 18 days,
although it may vary from 14 to 25 days. Mumps is
contagious seven days prior to and nine days after
the onset of symptoms. A person is most contagious
48 hours prior to the appearance of symptoms. Once
a person has had the mumps, immunity from the
disease is usually lifelong.
Swelling of the testicles
occurs in 15-25 percent of infected males. Mumps
can cause central nervous system disorders such as
encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and
meningitis (inflammation of the covering of the
brain and spinal column). Other complications
include arthritis, kidney involvement,
inflammation of the thyroid gland and breasts and
deafness.
Mumps vaccine is given on
or after a child's first birthday, and is usually
administered in combination with measles and
rubella vaccine in an MMR combination. The vaccine
is highly effective and one injection usually
produces lifelong protection.
Rubella infection is commonly known as "German
measles" or "3-day measles." It may begin with 1
or 2 days of mild fever (99 degrees F to 100
degrees F) and swollen glands that are usually
found either in the neck or behind the ears. On
the second or third day, a rash appears that
begins at the hairline and spreads downward on the
rest of the body. As the rash spreads downward on
the body, it usually clears on the face. The
rubella rash appears as either pink or light red
spots, about 0.1 inches (2 to 3 mm) in diameter,
which may merge to form evenly colored patches.
The rash doesn't itch, and lasts up to 5 days (the
average is 3 days). As the rash passes, the
affected skin may be shed in flakes.
Other symptoms of rubella
may include: mild conjunctivitis (inflammation of
the lining of the eyelids and eyeballs); stuffy or
runny nose; swollen lymph glands in other regions
of the body; pain and swelling in the joints
(especially in young women); and in males, pain in
the testicles.
When rubella occurs in a
pregnant woman, it may cause congenital rubella
syndrome with serious malformations of her
developing fetus. Children infected with rubella
before birth (a condition known as congenital
rubella) are at risk for the following: growth
retardation; malformations of the heart, eyes, or
brain; deafness; and liver, spleen, and bone
marrow problems
Before a vaccine against
rubella became available in 1969, there were
rubella epidemics every 6 to 9 years. Those
primarily affected by rubella were children ages 5
to 9 and adults, but there were also many cases of
congenital rubella. Now, due to immunization of
younger children and teens, fewer cases of
congenital rubella occur. Estimates are that 10%
of young women of childbearing age are currently
susceptible to rubella; obstetricians usually will
check for immunity.
The term "German" has
nothing to do with the country, but probably came
from the Old French term "germain" and the Latin
term "germanus," meaning "akin to" or "similar."
The rubella rash may last
from 1 to 5 days, but 3 days is the most common
duration. Children with rubella usually recover
within a week.
The rubella virus passes
from person to person through droplets and fluids
from the nose and throat. Persons with rubella are
contagious from 1 week before the rash appears
until 1 week after it fades. The incubation period
for rubella is 14 to 21 days; 18 days is the
average incubation period.
Rubella can be prevented
by a rubella vaccine, which is usually given to
children at 12 to 15 months as part of the
scheduled Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)
immunization. A second dose of MMR is generally
given at 4 to 6 years of age, but should be given
no later than 11 to 12 years of age. The rubella
vaccine should not be given to pregnant women or
to a woman who may become pregnant within 3 months
of receiving the vaccine.
Asthma is a chronic health
condition that occurs when a person's lungs
overreact to irritants by becoming inflamed and
obstructed, making breathing difficult.
During an asthma attack,
the lungs can't draw in enough fresh air to meet
the body's need for oxygen. When a person with
asthma breathes in an irritant like smoke,
perfume, or pollen, the linings of the airways
become swollen and the airways themselves become
narrow and full of mucus.
Asthma attacks can strike
without warning, and can last for just a few
minutes or can go on for many days. There are
medications that can help clear the airways and
allow the person with asthma to get the oxygen
they need to stay healthy.
Common symptoms of asthma
include:
Shortness of breath
when exercising or exerting yourself
A high-pitched
whistling sound when breathing
A cough that goes on
for more than ten days
Tightness in your
chest
Frequent respiratory
infections that last for more than two weeks
If you think your child
may have asthma, it is important to see your
family physician. Although asthma can't be cured,
the symptoms can be controlled and it will not go
away on its own.
My child doesn't want to
be treated differently just because he has asthma.
Do I have to tell his teachers?
It's understandable - all
children want to be just the same as everyone
else. But the bottom line is that your child has a
chronic health condition and may need an adult's
help.
It is very important that
adults that your child spends time with know about
your child's asthma so that they can recognize an
attack at the early stages and make sure your
child gets appropriate treatment.
Make sure that your
child's teachers and daycare operators about :
Substances that may
trigger your child's asthma, particularly any
food sensitivities.
Symptoms that indicate
the beginning of an asthma episode
How to help your child
feel better during a mild asthma episode
An emergency plan to
follow if an asthma episode becomes worse
What can cause an asthma
attack?
No one is sure exactly
what causes asthma, and sometimes an attack will
occur for no foreseeable reason. But we do know
that certain substances and conditions can bring
on an asthma attack.
Common triggers of asthma
include:
Upper respiratory
infections such as colds or flu
Allergens like animal
hair, dust, pollen, and foods
Emotionally stressful
situations like an argument or laughing hard
Environmental
conditions like very cold air or low humidity
Overly vigorous
exercise
Airborne substances
such as cigarette smoke, strong perfumes, and
car exhaust
Asthma is a long-term,
chronic inflammatory disorder that blocks airflow
in and out of the lungs. An estimated 15 million
Americans, including 4.8 million infants and
children suffer from asthma and its familiar
symptoms: shortness of breath, tightness in the
chest, wheezing, and coughing. Often related to
allergies, or confused with infections, proper
diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and control of
symptoms and attacks provide effective asthma
management.
Dust, cats, and peanuts. An
odd grouping, but one with a common thread:
allergies. Up to 50 million Americans, including
two million children, have some type of allergy.
For most people, allergies are just an
inconvenience. But according to the National
Institute for Allergy and Infectious Disease, they
are a major cause of disability in the U.S. In
fact, it has been estimated that allergies account
for the loss of two million school days per year.
An allergy is a reaction
of the immune system toward a substance that is
typically harmless to most people. But in a child
with an allergy, the body treats the substance,
called an allergen, as an invader.
At the first exposure to
an allergen, the immune system produces an
antibody. With each exposure, more antibodies are
created. When the antibodies are activated to
defend against the allergen "invader" it causes
allergic reactions -- coughing, sneezing, runny
nose and watery eyes and/or congestion.
Some of the most common
allergies include those to airborne allergens such
as pollen and dust mites, animal dander, and
foods. Allergies can be seasonal, like pollen, or
year-round, like dust mites. Regional differences
also occur. Different allergens are more prevalent
in different parts of the country or the world.
For example, peanut allergy is unknown in
Scandinavia, where they do not eat peanuts, but
common in the U.S., where the per capita
consumption of peanuts is about eight pounds a
year. However, moving to another region is not
likely to eliminate a child's allergies. He will
probably develop allergies to the irritants in his
new environment.
Children inherit
allergies from their parents. If one parent has
allergies, there is a one in four chance that a
child will also have allergies. The risk increases
if both parents have allergies. However, the child
only inherits the likelihood of having allergies,
not a particular allergy.
Allergies also tend to
occur in clusters. If a child is allergic to one
substance, it is likely that he will be allergic
to others as well. There are also children who
suffer from cross-reactions. For example, children
who are allergic to birch pollen might have
reactions when they eat apples, because apple
protein is similar to the pollen.
The type and severity of
allergy symptoms vary from allergy to allergy and
child to child. Some children may experience a
combination of symptoms.
Airborne allergens can
cause sneezing, itchy nose and/or throat, nasal
congestion, and coughing; this is known as
allergic rhinitis. These symptoms are often
accompanied by itchy, watery, and/or red eyes,
which is called allergic conjunctivitis.
The symptoms of allergic
rhinitis and conjunctivitis can range from minor
seasonal annoyances to year-round problems. If
they occur with wheezing and shortness of breath,
the allergy may have progressed to become asthma,
which can be a serious condition.
In children with food
allergies, some only exhibit "oral allergy
syndrome" - an itchy mouth and throat. Others
develop a rash or cramping accompanied by nausea
and vomiting or diarrhea, as the body attempts to
flush out the irritant. Other common symptoms are
hives, wheezing, rhinitis, and shortness of
breath.
If the sensitivity to an
allergen is extreme, a child may develop a
life-threatening condition called anaphylactic
shock. Severe symptoms or reactions to any
allergen require immediate medical attention.
Some allergies are fairly
easy to identify; the pattern of symptoms
following certain exposures can be hard to miss.
But some allergies are trickier, because they can
masquerade as other conditions.
If your child has
cold-like symptoms lasting longer than a week or
two or develops a "cold" at the same time every
year, consult your pediatrician. The pediatrician
will likely ask questions about the nature of the
symptoms and when they appear. Based on the
answers to these questions and a physical exam,
the doctor may be able to make a diagnosis or may
refer you to an allergist for allergy skin tests.
There is no cure for
allergies, but symptomatic relief is possible. One
of the most important means is by reducing or
eliminating exposure to allergens or "triggers".
If reducing exposure is inadequate, medications
may be prescribed. In some cases, an allergist may
recommend allergy shots to help desensitize the
child.
Unlike allergic rhinitis,
food allergies are lifelong and a child cannot be
desensitized. Avoiding the food is the only way to
avoid symptoms. Common foods that may cause
allergies include cow's milk, soy, egg whites,
wheat, shellfish, and peanuts. Peanuts are one of
the most severe food allergens, often causing
life-threatening reactions. If a child is
extremely sensitive to a particular food, his
physician will probably recommend that you carry
injectable epinephrine or adrenaline to counteract
the allergic reaction in the event of an
inadvertent exposure. Fortunately, severe or
life-threatening allergies occur only in a small
group of children.
Allergy Triggers
Dust mites are one of the
most common causes of allergies and are present
year-round. Dust comprises many particles and can
contain things such as fabric fibers and bacteria,
as well as microscopic dust mites. The dust mite
is the main allergic component of house dust. Dust
mites live in bedding, upholstery, and carpets.
Cockroach body parts and waste products are also a
major household allergen, especially in urban
areas.
Pollen is another
important cause of allergies. Trees, weeds, and
grasses release these tiny particles into the air
to fertilize other plants. Most people know pollen
allergy as hay fever or rose fever. Pollen
allergies are seasonal, and the type of pollen a
child is allergic to determines when he will be
symptomatic. For example, in the mid-Atlantic
states, tree pollination begins in February and
March, grass from April through June, and ragweed
from August through October.
Pollen counts measure how
much pollen is in the air. Pollen counts are
usually higher in the morning and on warm, dry,
breezy days; they are lowest when it is chilly and
wet. Although they are not exact, the local
weather report's pollen count can be helpful when
planning outside activities.
Molds are fungi that
thrive both indoors and out in warm, moist
environments. As with pollen, mold spores are
released into the air to reproduce. Outside, molds
may be found in poor drainage areas, such as in
piles of rotting leaves or compost piles; indoors
they thrive in dark, poorly ventilated places,
such as bathrooms and closets. Mold buildup may be
found in damp basements or basements with water
leaks. A musty odor suggests mold growth. Although
molds can be seasonal, many thrive year-round,
especially those indoors.
Animal allergens
Warm-blooded furry
animals, such as the average household pet, can
cause allergic reactions, usually because of a
protein in their saliva, dander, and urine. When
the animal licks itself, the saliva gets on the
fur. As the saliva dries, protein particles become
airborne and work their way into fabrics in the
home. Cats are the "worst offenders" because their
salivary protein is extremely tiny and they tend
to lick themselves more than other animals. Guinea
pigs and gerbils can also cause allergies, most
likely due to protein in their urine.
Diabetes is a serious,
lifelong health condition that occurs when the
body fails to produce enough insulin to stay
healthy.
After we eat a meal, food
circulates throughout our body waiting for insulin
to help our cells absorb it and convert it into
energy. As we eat, the pancreas -- a large gland
behind our stomach -- automatically produces the
right amount of insulin we need. But in people
with diabetes, either the pancreas doesn't produce
insulin at all, or it doesn't produce enough. As a
result, their cells do not get the fuel they need
to keep their bodies healthy.
Common symptoms of
diabetes include:
Unusual thirst or
hunger
Persistent tiredness
or weakness
Sudden weight loss
Frequent urination
blurred vision and
Irritability
Diabetes affects the
entire family. When one person develops diabetes,
the dynamics of the entire family undergo changes.
This is especially true if the person with
diabetes is a child. For these children and their
families, coping with diabetes means a day-to-day
routine that doesn't allow for "days off" for good
behavior.
But it does not have to
be a tragedy. With their family's support and
encouragement, kids with diabetes can lead happy,
healthy lives.
Diabetes is a serious
metabolic disorder that occurs when the body fails
to produce enough insulin to convert food to the
energy required to maintain a healthy body. This
lifelong medical condition affects 16 million
Americans. Almost half don't know they have it.
Most infants will have a
rash in their diaper area sometime during their
first year of life. There are multiple causes for
diaper rashes but the rashes are rarely serious.
However, infants are sometimes uncomfortable as a
result of the rash.
Despite advances in
diaper "technology," excess moisture remains the
most common cause for diaper rashes. Less
commonly, the rash may be the result of a
bacterial or yeast infection, chemicals in the
infant's urine or stools, or a reaction to one of
the components in a disposable diaper or to the
laundry detergent used to wash a cloth diaper
By definition, a diaper
rash is an area of abnormal skin that is limited
to the area that is covered by the diaper. Rashes
that involve other parts of the body including the
diaper area should not be considered as simple
diaper rashes but are indicative of a more
generalized condition.
The most common type of
diaper rash is an area of red, inflamed-appearing
skin over the lower part of the stomach, upper
thighs, buttocks, and genitalia. The rash may be
dry or there may be oozing of yellowish fluid. If
the rash is solely caused by chafing from the
diaper or chemicals in the diaper, the skin
creases of the upper thighs are generally not
involved. Widespread involvement that involves the
skin creases generally indicates that either
excess moisture or a yeast infection is the cause
of the rash. If the rash is extremely tender, very
red, and the infant has fever, the rash may be
indicative of a bacterial infection for which
medical attention is necessary.
Most diaper rashes do not
require medical attention and can be easily
managed by the parents or caretakers. Two simple
measures will clear up the most common types of
diaper rash: leaving diapers off the infant or, if
this is not practical, frequent changing of the
diapers. If the latter method is chosen, the goal
should be to change the diaper as rapidly as
possible after it becomes soiled. Each time that
the infant urinates or has a bowel movement, the
skin in the diaper area should be gently but
thoroughly washed with mild soap and water, and
the skin should be thoroughly dried. Power and
cornstarch should be avoided, and over-the-counter
ointments and creams should not be applied without
medical advice. In most instances, there should be
gradual improvement over a three- to four-day
period. If there is no improvement after this
time, or if the rash worsens or spreads to other
parts of the body, the infant's pediatrician
should be consulted.
Frostbite is, literally,
frozen body tissue - usually skin - and must be
handled carefully to prevent permanent damage.
Children are at greater risk for frostbite than
adults, both because they lose heat from their
skin more rapidly than adults and because they may
be reluctant to leave their winter fun to go
inside and warm up. You can help prevent frostbite
in cold weather by dressing your child in layers,
making sure he comes indoors at regular intervals,
and watching for frostnip, frostbite's early
warning signal.
Frostnip usually affects
the cheeks, nose, ears, fingers, and toes, leaving
them white and numb. It can be treated at home.
What to Do:
Bring the child
indoors immediately.
Remove all wet
clothing. Wet clothes draw heat from the body.
Immerse chilled body
parts in warm water (104-108 degrees F) until
all sensation returns.
Don't let the child
control the water temperature. Numb hands won't
feel the heat and can be severely burned by
water that is too hot.
Frostbite is
characterized by white, waxy skin that feels numb
and hard. It requires emergency medical attention.
What to Do:
Get the child into dry
clothing, and then take him to a hospital
emergency room. If feet are affected, carry him.
If you cannot get him
to a hospital right away or must wait for an
ambulance, give him a warm drink and begin
first-aid treatment:
Immerse frozen areas
in warm water (100-105 degrees F) or apply warm
compresses for 30 minutes. If warm water is not
available, wrap gently in warm blankets.
Do not use direct heat
such as a fire or heating pad.
Do not thaw the area
if it is at risk for refreezing, which may cause
severe tissue damage.
Do not rub frostbitten
skin or rub snow on it.
Re-warming will be
accompanied by a burning sensation. Skin may
blister and swell and may turn red, blue, or
purple. When skin is pink and no longer numb,
the area is thawed.
Apply sterile dressing
to the area, placing it between fingers and toes
if they are affected. Try not to disturb any
blisters.
Wrap re-warmed areas
to prevent refreezing, and have the child keep
thawed areas as still as possible.
Some people call head lice
gross, icky, and disgusting. Others prefer to view
them as tenacious, tricky little insects that,
while hard to eliminate, are not dangerous to
humans or pets. Nor are they a reflection on your
housekeeping or your child's cleanliness. Head
lice actually prefer nice clean hair.
Lice are tiny insects
that feed on human blood. Head lice are about as
big as sesame seeds and live on the human scalp.
Lice cannot fly or jump from one person to
another; they can only crawl. Lice can be passed
around on shared combs, brushes, hats, or through
direct head-to-head contact.
Most often you'll hear
the dread words "head lice" from either the school
nurse or your day-care provider. Many schools have
a policy requiring that infested children be
removed from school pending effective treatment.
The most common symptom
of lice infestation is itching. Although this is
not always present, itching occurs when lice bite
and suck blood from the scalp. This creates a
reaction with the human scalp. If you notice your
child scratching his or her head often, especially
behind the ears or at the nape of the neck, check
for lice. Also do frequent checks when you know of
a lice outbreak in your child's school.
Lice hatch from eggs
called nits. Nits are smaller than lice and vary
in color from yellowish-brown to white and are
teardrop shaped. Also, the term "nit" or "eggs"
can be used interchangeably.
Nits are attached to
hair with a glue-like substance that cannot just
be washed out or blown away.
Nits can be found on
the hair shaft, close to the scalp.
Nits must be combed
out of the hair with an extremely fine toothcomb
especially designed for this purpose.
Nits hatch in about
one week. They are fully mature in about 9 to 12
days after hatching. Female lice are capable of
laying eggs once they reach maturity.
Head lice can survive for
up to a day off the human scalp, on personal
items, stuffed animals and household surfaces,
clothing or bed linen. All of these items that
belong to the child who has had lice, or anything
he/she may have come in contact with, should be
properly cleaned. If these lice are not killed, a
new outbreak can occur
To effectively get rid of
lice you must follow a step-by-step program that
includes:
Hair treatment with
either a prescription or over-the-counter
product with a follow-up treatment as proscribed
7-10 days following the initial treatment.
Launder all bedding
and pillows in HOT water -- at least 130 degrees
F, and then dry in a hot dryer for 20 minutes.
Launder all coats,
scarves, hats in HOT water, or place in a
plastic bag and freeze for three days.
Remove all stuffed
animals and other items that cannot be washed
and, place them in plastic bags, and freeze for
three days OR isolate in the plastic bag for 14
days (2 full week) if freezing is not an option.
After 14 days open the bag outdoors and shake
the items vigorously.
Yeast infections are caused
by various species of Candida, especially Candida
albicans. These organisms are part of the germs
normally found in various parts of the body and
ordinarily do not cause any symptoms. Certain
conditions, such as antibiotic use or excessive
moisture, may upset the balance of microbes and
allow an overgrowth of Candida. In newborns, a
yeast infection can cause Oral Thrush
Thrush appears as creamy
white, curd-like patches on the tongue and inside
of the mouth. The first sign of Thrush may be
reluctance to eat or nurse because of a sore
mouth.
Thrush may also appear as
a diaper rash, as this yeast grows readily on
damaged skin. The infected skin is usually fiery
red with lesions that may have a raised red
border. Children who suck their thumbs or other
fingers may occasionally develop Candida around
their fingernails.
Oral thrush and Candida
diaper rash are usually treated with the
antibiotic nystatin. A prescription is required
for oral thrush medication. A corticosteroid cream
can be applied to highly inflamed skin lesions on
the hands or diaper areas. For children with
diaper rash, parents and care providers should
change the diaper frequently, gently clean the
child's skin with water and a mild soap and pat
dry. While cornstarch or baby powder may be
recommended for mild diaper rash, it should not be
used for children with inflamed skin. High
absorbency disposable diapers may help keep the
skin dry. Plastic pants that do not allow air to
circulate over the diaper area should not be used.
If you are
breast-feeding, your doctor may instruct you to
apply a small amount of your baby's medication to
your nipples after each feeding.
Parents and care
providers should follow good hygiene including
careful hand washing and immediately disposal of
tissue used to wipe and blow noses. Contaminated
pacifiers, bottles, toys, teething rings, etc.,
should be cleaned with hot, soapy water and dried
completely.
Infants and children with
thrush and candida diaper rash need not be
excluded from childcare as long they are able to
participate comfortably.
One of the more common eye
ailments among children is pinkeye, also called
conjunctivitis. Pinkeye is inflammation of the
mucous membrane that lines the eyelid and can be
caused by allergies, viruses, or bacteria.
Pinkeye causes redness in
the white of the eye, accompanied by itching,
and/or burning along with a discharge that may
cause the eyelashes to stick together, especially
while your child sleeps. "Sticky morning eyes" can
be relieved by washing the outer portion of the
eyes with warm water. Cool, wet compresses also
provide relief for eyes that burn or itch. Make
sure your child washes his or her hands and face
frequently to avoid spreading the infection to
others. In addition, pillows, washcloths, and
towels should not be shared with the rest of the
family.
Some forms of pinkeye are
highly contagious. While pink eye usually will
disappear by itself after a week, it is most often
treated with antibiotics. Your pediatrician may
prescribe antibiotic ointment or eye drops, which
provide relief in three to five days. Parents
should not use over-the-counter eye drops to treat
their child for pinkeye without consulting their
pediatrician, since these drops may mask the
symptoms of an infection.
Children with pinkeye
that includes a white or yellow discharge should
not go to school or daycare until they have been
treated with antibiotics for 24 hours. If the
discharge is merely watery, there is no reason to
keep prevent school/day care participation.
According to the Center for
Disease Control, Pinworm is the most common worm
infection in the U.S. School-age children;
followed by pre-schoolers, have the highest rates
of infection.
A pinworm infection is
caused by a small, white intestinal worm called
Enterobius vermicularis. Pinworms are about the
length of a staple and live in the rectum of
humans. While an infected person sleeps, female
pinworms leave the intestines through the anus and
deposit egos on the surrounding skin.
Itching around the anus,
disturbed sleep, and irritability are common
symptoms. Eggs are infective within a few hours
after being deposited on the skin. They can
survive up to two weeks on clothing, bedding, or
other objects. Children can become infected by
accidentally swallowing infective pinworm eggs
from contaminated surfaces or fingers.
If you suspect pinworms,
consult your physician who will instruct you
regarding sample gathering for microscopic
examination. Both over-the-counter and
prescription treatments are effective. Treatment
involves a two-dose course. The second dose is
normally given two weeks after the first.
To prevent the spread of
infection:
Bathe immediately upon
awakening to reduce egg contamination
Change nightclothes
frequently
Change underwear, pj's
and sheets after each treatment
Pinworm eggs are
susceptible to sunlight, so open blinds and
curtains in bedrooms during the day.
Wash hands after going
to the toilet, before eating, and after changing
diapers
Trim fingernails short
Discourage nail biting
and scratching bare anal areas to reduce
self-re-infection.
Ringworm and impetigo are
two skin infections that often alarm parents but
are generally not serious conditions.
Ringworm, also known as
tinea, is not a parasite but an infection caused
by fungi that are all around us in the
environment. It may affect the skin, hair, or, in
adolescents and adults, the nails. Household pets
such as cats are often responsible for
transmitting ringworm of the skin to children, but
the major mode of transmission is from person to
person.
Ringworm infections of
the skin, the most common form of the disease,
typically begin as small red lesions with a scaly
ring. The lesions slowly enlarge, leaving a clear
center. There may be one or several lesions, which
occasionally itch.
Ringworm of the skin is
not accompanied by any systemic symptoms. Ringworm
of the scalp is generally first noticed when there
is an area of local hair loss; less commonly,
there may be widespread hair loss.
Although the skin lesions
can heal spontaneously within two to four weeks
without treatment, there are antifungal creams and
ointments available by prescription. Parents
should have their child examined by a pediatrician
for a specific diagnosis and treatment. If a
household pet is responsible for the ringworm
infection, it should be treated by a veterinarian
for the fungal infection. To prevent the infection
from spreading through the family, each person
should use only his or her comb, brush, and other
personal items.
Impetigo is a common skin
infection in children, especially during the
spring and summer months when insect bites and
minor scrapes and scratches become infected with
bacteria. The lesions generally appear as small
localized blisters, or, more commonly, as red
lesions with a honey-colored crust or brown scab.
Impetigo lesions should
be gently washed with soap and water several times
per day and left uncovered so that they can dry.
Often, the pediatrician will prescribe a topical
antibacterial ointment or oral antibiotics to
treat the sores.
Ticks
prefer moist ground that is covered with small
bushes and shrubs. They generally become active in
the spring and early summer, retreating to shaded
areas during the hottest parts of the summer, but
they often remain active through October.
Ticks aren't just found
in the deep woods but may appear in parks and
residential neighborhoods. Be particularly alert
if you'll be spending time in either an unfamiliar
place or someplace where ticks have been known to
exist in the past. It's best to apply insect
repellent and wear light-colored clothes that will
make it easier to see unattached ticks. Inspect
everyone who may have been exposed to ticks,
especially children and pets. For kids, a thorough
inspection is particularly important, including
the hair and scalp.
The best way to remove a
tick is with tweezers. The sooner ticks are
removed, the better, and it's best if they're
removed within 24 hours to prevent disease
transmission. A tick should be removed by gently
grasping it with tweezers, being careful not to
crush the tick. Thoroughly wash the area with a
disinfectant afterward.
Is
it just a cold? Or a virus? How is a parent
supposed to know when the aches and pains of
childhood are serious and when they just need some
Tylenol and chicken soup?
Most of the time, if your
child isn't acting sick -- no matter how bad they
cough, or how runny the nose -- they aren't sick
enough for a doctor visit. However, if your
normally active child is listless, glassy-eyed,
and otherwise "not normal", a call is warranted.
If these signs and
symptoms are present, call the doctor immediately:
High fever, or ANY
fever in an infant younger than 4 weeks
Chills that make the
child shake all over
Has trouble breathing
or is working hard to breathe; makes a whooping
sound when she breathes after coughing; makes a
wheezing sound when he exhales.
Loss of consciousness
Extreme sleepiness or
unexplained lethargy
Listless or cranky
Unusual excitement or
hysterical crying
Sudden weakness or
paralysis of any part of the body
Seizures (convulsions)
or uncontrollable shaking of an arm or leg
Severe headache
Pain, heaviness, or
stuffiness around the nose, eyes, or forehead
Nasal fluid that is
discolored, bad-smelling, or bloody
Sudden hearing loss
Earache
Fluid discharge from
the ear
Sudden decrease in
vision
Eyes that are red,
swollen, and watery, with or without blurred
vision.
Severe or prolonged
episode of diarrhea, vomiting, or severe
abdominal pain or if the diarrhea stools contain
blood.
Signs of dehydration
including dry lips and tongue, skin that is pale
and dry, sunken eyes, listlessness or decreased
activity, and decreased urination.
Most often, children are
most infectious BEFORE you know they're sick.
Keeping your child home from day care and/or
pre-school will not prevent childhood illness. In
fact, the best way to build resistance is often
repeated exposure.
If your child is sick,
keep him home if he is too ill to participate in
normal activities, throwing up, or has a bacterial
infection and has not been on antibiotics for 24
hours. If children are well enough to be out of
bed and playing/enjoying activities, they're well
enough to go to day care or pre-school from a
medical perspective. Check with your provider or
pre-school regarding individual guidelines.
General Guidelines
When they have a fever
higher than 100 degrees. This is a rule used by
many, schools because fever is a sign of
potentially contagious infection, even if the
child feels fine. Schools often advise keeping
the child at home until he has been fever-free
for 24 hours.
When they have a known
contagious infection, such as chicken pox, strep
throat or conjunctivitis.
Most schools recommend
that children taking antibiotics for contagious
bacterial infections should be kept at home
until they have taken medicine for one or two
days.
Colds, flu, aches,
pains...Since the discovery of penicillin, we've
come to think of antibiotics as the required
treatment for any illness. And although
antibiotics can be wonderful cures, our dependence
and overuse is creating a serious health risk. The
rise of antibiotic resistant strains of infectious
diseases is putting our health at risk.
The biggest reason for
antibiotic resistance is the overuse of
antibiotics. Antibiotics only work on bacterial
infections like pneumonia and ear infections. They
don't work for viral infections such as colds and
the flu. Using antibiotics for viral infections
may select for more resistant bacteria which will
cause resistant infections.
The next time you have a
cold -- let it run its course and don't ask for
antibiotics. Another thing you must do when given
a prescription for antibiotics is finish the full
course. If you stop taking them before they're
gone, the infection may come back and this time
may not respond to the same antibiotics. Saving
antibiotics for "next time" will also lead to more
resistant infections. So next time you're given a
prescription for antibiotics, stay the course --
finish them until gone.
