Author -  Dr. Sanjay Wazir

MD- Paediatrics, DM-Neonatology,

Medical Director (NCR)- Neonatology

Common Childhood Illnesses: A Paediatrician's advice 

Children are more prone to sickness due to their underdeveloped immune system. At most, a child may have at least 6 to 8 colds a year. Hence, you need to understand which illness can affect your child. Dr. Sanjay Wazir, MBBS, MD- Paediatrics, DM-Neonatology, Medical Director (NCR)- Neonatology, emphasizes the role of parents in managing childhood illnesses. The best paediatrician in Gurgaon suggests parents be aware and know the symptoms of common childhood illnesses, and how to manage them at the initial level. Of course, the parents should always seek the advice of a paediatrician in Gurgaon for managing illness. They, however, should be able to handle it initially.

Common Childhood Illnesses 

1. Respiratory Tract Infections

Common colds, swollen tonsils, and sore throats are some of the common respiratory tract infections affecting children. These are caused by viruses and bacteria attacking the upper respiratory tract. The common symptoms may include congestion in the chest, swollen glands, runny nose, and coughing. All of these symptoms usually last from 7 to 10 days. In such cases, you can help your child by giving them warm liquids to drink. Additionally, gargling with lukewarm salt water at regular intervals also helps in curing the throat. If you observe that the symptoms persist even after 10 days, consult the best paediatrician in Gurgaon and abstain from self-medication.

2. Ear Pain 

A pain in the ear is a telling sign of inflammation or infection in the ear. Infections in the ear are usually located in the inner ear canal or middle canal. At times, the ear pain may also radiate to the lower jaw due to pressure buildup in the sinuses.

Usually, ear infections affect children between the ages of 6 to 18 months due to poor immunity, allergies, and passive smoke. If your child complains of ear pain, consult a paediatrician in Gurgaon immediately as prolonged ear pain can lead to loss of hearing.

3. Fainting 

Children can sometimes faint at school or home due to decreased blood flow to their brains. The fainting is usually transient and most of the children regain consciousness within a few minutes. Your child may faint due to extreme exhaustion, heat, or emotional stress. It can also be a sign of low blood sugar levels, low red blood cell count, or irregular heartbeats. If your child goes through fainting spells frequently at school or home, get a doctor’s examination done to check for epilepsy or seizures.

4. Skin Infections 

An itchy, dry skin and red spots on your child’s body can be a sign of Eczema or atopic dermatitis. Children usually develop eczema due to excessive scratching when irritated. In such cases, refrain from woollen clothes and harsh soaps as these strip away the natural oils from the skin.

Furthermore, toddlers may also face fungal infections including a diaper rash due to wet diapers. Such infections require expert and careful management as directed by your paediatrician in Gurgaon.

5. Abdominal Pain, Diarrhoea, and Vomiting 

Abdominal or stomach pain is also a common illness in children. Your child may also have diarrhoea if he goes frequently to the loo. On the contrary, constipation with no loo visits. Prevent such from happening by ensuring a healthy diet and physical hygiene. You can also deworm your child to prevent parasitic infections.

Taking care of your child’s health in the initial stages of their development is crucial for other overall health. Giving them a nutritious meal, taking precautions, and practising hygiene are important. If you notice, however, that your child is getting sick frequently, visit Dr. Sanjay Wazir at the Motherhood Hospitals.