Steps to Heal and Prevent Common Childhood Illnesses

Childhood is a time of growth, development, and exploration. However, it is also a time when children are more susceptible to illness. The common cold, flu, and other illnesses can cause significant discomfort and can even lead to serious complications. Fortunately, there are a number of things that parents can do to help their children heal from common illnesses and prevent them from getting sick in the first place.

Common Childhood Illnesses

The most common childhood illnesses include the cold, flu, and ear infections. These illnesses are caused by viruses or bacteria and can be spread through contact with an infected person or by touching contaminated objects. Symptoms of the cold and flu include runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, and cough. Ear infections can cause pain, fever, and hearing loss.

Healthy Kids, Happy Moms: 7 Steps to Heal and Prevent Common Childhood Illnesses

by Sheila Kilbane MD

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20239 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	303 pages

FREE

Treating Common Childhood Illnesses

There is no cure for the cold or flu, but there are a number of things that can be done to relieve symptoms and help the child feel more comfortable. These include:

* Giving the child plenty of fluids to drink * Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air * Giving the child over-the-counter pain relievers or fever reducers * Resting the child

Ear infections are typically treated with antibiotics. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to drain the fluid from the ear.

Preventing Common Childhood Illnesses

There are a number of things that parents can do to help prevent their children from getting sick. These include:

* Washing the child's hands frequently with soap and water * Keeping the child away from people who are sick * Discouraging the child from sharing toys or other objects with other children * Getting the child vaccinated against common childhood illnesses * Giving the child a healthy diet and plenty of exercise

When to See a Doctor

It is important to see a doctor if the child's symptoms are severe or do not improve after a few days. Symptoms that warrant a doctor's visit include:

* Fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit * Severe headache * Stiff neck * Confusion * Difficulty breathing * Persistent vomiting or diarrhea

Common childhood illnesses are a part of growing up. However, there are a number of things that parents can do to help their children heal from these illnesses and prevent them from getting sick in the first place. By following the tips in this article, you can help your child stay healthy and happy.

Additional Tips

In addition to the tips listed above, here are a few other things that you can do to help your child heal from common illnesses and prevent them from getting sick:

* Make sure your child gets plenty of rest. Rest helps the body to heal. * Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids. Fluids help to thin mucus and keep the throat moist. * Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air. Moist air can help to relieve congestion and coughing. * Give your child over-the-counter pain relievers or fever reducers. These medications can help to relieve symptoms and make your child more comfortable. * Keep your child away from smoke. Smoke can irritate the lungs and make symptoms worse. * Call your doctor if your child's symptoms are severe or do not improve after a few days.

Healthy Kids, Happy Moms: 7 Steps to Heal and Prevent Common Childhood Illnesses

by Sheila Kilbane MD

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20239 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	303 pages

FREE