Growing up involves consistently exposing children to bacteria that can get them under the weather. Usually, their exposure to such organisms helps them build immunity and is all a part of the growing process.
Still, in some cases, your children might experience more grave illnesses than others. In such instances, it’s advised that, as a parent, you see a GP for further investigation. Today’s article looks at some of the most common health issues children face and why you should look out for them in your little ones.
1. Ear infections
In small children, an ear infection is very common, with this health issue resolving by itself after a week or two. Viruses or bacteria cause ear infections, often affecting the middle and out of the ear. In dire cases, ear infections left untreated can cause temporary hearing loss and intense earaches.
In babies, it is very easy for parents to mistake teething symptoms for a sign of ear infections. While normal teething presents signs such as a rash, sore gums, and mild temperature, teething generally does not make your child unwell.
With an ear infection, you realize your child experiences fevers, is highly irritable with a cough, and constantly rubs a specific ear. The moment you notice these signs, take your child to the emergency room.
2. Respiratory Syncytial Virus
Another common occurrence in children is the RSV or respiratory syncytial virus. Caused by an infection of the breathing passages or the lungs, RSV is regarded as one health issue children encounter in schools, and as such, parents need to be wary of it.
Symptoms of RSV include your child having a runny nose, fever, and intermittent coughs. The best treatment for the syncytial virus is getting lots of rest and regularly consuming fluids. The RSV becomes a critical issue when your child has a fever, looks unwell, or has difficulty breathing. At these signs, it’s best to take your child to see the doctor.
3. Conjunctivitis
Also known as pink eye, conjunctivitis is a common health issue among children. The rate of occurrence is high because it is contagious and easily transferred in environments such as schools.
The symptoms of conjunctivitis include itching or burning eyes, inflammation of the eye, crusty eyelashes, or the redness of the clear membrane covering the inner surface of the eye. Usually, conjunctivitis should clear itself or improve in a couple of hours.
Thus, if the condition is not certain, take your little one to the doctor. Viral conjunctivitis often clears up on its own, while bacterial conjunctivitis needs an antibiotic eye drop for effective treatment.
4. Asthma
Asthma is a lung-affecting health issue that typically manifests through breathlessness, wheezing sounds with each breath, and constant night coughing. Asthma in children might be hereditary; thus, it is important to see your doctor if your little one exhibits any of these signs.
While asthma cannot be prevented, there are measures your doctor can take you through to help reduce the symptoms. The most prevalent is avoiding any triggers such as dust, exercise, pollen, pets, and house dust mites.
As a parent, it’s natural to want what’s best for your child, physically and mentally. It is best to familiarize yourself with some of these common health issues and their symptoms to be in a better position to get the care your child might require when these symptoms rear their heads.
