Sickness is a part of human life, but parents get apprehensive about their children’s health. Young children do not take care of sanitation and often eat unhealthy food, causing them to fall sick. Besides, kids are more vulnerable, catch germs easily, and are more prone to develop diseases. Aside from mild health issues, some young children ranging from 1-5 years of age suffer from significant health problems and unfortunately spend more time in hospitals. Naturally, parents feel distressed and do everything they can to help their children recover from illness.
Children of ages one to five are susceptible and are not independent. Parents need to take care of their wellness and ensure appropriate treatment if they fall sick. Parents often want to learn more about health concerns of this age and educate themselves to protect their kids.
Below we are listing some informative points that will give an insight into health concerns of children ranging from 1-5 years and tips to protect them:
1. Sore Throat
Sore throat is a common issue in children and adults, but it can be excruciating for infants. People need to see what has caused sore throat, as a virus causing sore throat does not need antibiotics. Mild sore throat does not require harsh medication, and sometimes parents can cater to them with home remedies. However, in numerous cases, streptococcal causing sore throat needs a proper diagnosis. Generally, babies do not get streptococcal, but young children may catch it if older siblings suffer from it.
PALS, Patients Advice and Liaison Service, offer medical suggestions but keep the information confidential. Parents can contact PALS officers and discuss their young children’s throat and other medical issues if it persists despite mediation. These officers are trained, have done pals courses, and are knowledgeable about health matters.
2. Bronchitis
Bronchitis is an infection in the airways of the lungs that becomes prevalent during a cold. Generally, a virus causes the disease and is often treatable without antibiotics. In severe cases of bronchitis, kids may have breathing problems. Prematurely born children often develop bronchitis and require extreme care. Medical experts devise different treatment plans for them that require vigilance from the parents’ end. Parents must see that their children suffering from bronchitis stay hydrated with fluids. And especially get high content of vitamin C. With bronchitis children around, they must avoid smoking. If children have a problem in breathing or eating, they must contact doctors and get medications.
3. Gastroenteritis
Another common problem among young children is a bowel infection which causes inflammation in the stomach or intestines. Gastroenteritis may lead to diarrhea or vomiting, both of which cause extreme weakness. Children in the age range of 1-3 years may not convey their issues and consistently cry. Parents must examine their stool, and if diarrhea lasts longer than four days, they must consult a pediatrician. Children are in the habit of touching everything that comes in their range and putting them in their mouth. Different germs can cause gastroenteritis, but the leading cause is bacteria. Parents must strive to keep children’s things sanitized and always wash their hands and utensils while feeding them.
4. Ear Infections
Many children complain about ear pain, which can have various reasons. Ear infection, otitis media, swimmer’s ear, sinus infection, or pressure from cold can cause pain in the ears. Parents may not determine the reason behind ear infections unless it is because of a cold. ENT specialists examine children’s ears and prescribe medication accordingly. Ear pain accompanied by fever, cold, or aches in other body parts may require children to take antibiotics. In severe cases, ear infections can cause temporary hearing loss, which may require extensive treatments. Young children are habitual of putting everything in their mouths or ears, damaging their inner ear. Sometimes ear pain is not caused because of any infection, and it happens as children are teething. However, parents must pay attention and immediately take the required action.
5. Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is a highly contagious eye infection. Parents mainly recognize conjunctivitis through changes occurring in eye color, as it makes the inner white part of the eye red. It causes inflammation of the eye and often releases a yellow or green discharge from the eyelids. Itchy or burning eyes and crusty eyelashes are the main symptoms. If the condition does not improve within the first few hours, parents must consult an ophthalmologist. Parents should keep their other children away from being contagious and ensure they wash their hands regularly to reduce the spread.
6. Asthma
Asthma is another prevalent issue among young children. Initial symptoms of asthma are constant coughing that does not go away with antibiotics or other remedies. Most parents cannot get it diagnosed early because they consider it a typical cold. Asthma makes children’s airways sensitive and a minute thing can trigger coughing in them. Unfortunately, asthma is not preventable, yet it is manageable. Parents must get their children to use an inhaler and develop their habit by repeating the procedure every twenty minutes. Parents should let other people who contact children know about the medical condition and inform them about measures to handle the attack. They must try their best to avoid triggers that include pollen, pets, dust, or dust mites.
7. Chickenpox
Chickenpox can strike children in the first five years of life. Chickenpox initially appears as rashes, finally creating blisters. Children suffering from chickenpox often have a fever, red spots on the face, and other body parts. Parents need to be very careful as these blisters are itchy and scratching leaves marks on bodies. Moreover, chickenpox is highly contagious and can spread through droplets in the air or direct contact.
Children suffering from chickenpox should not mingle with other kids. To prevent youngsters from scratching, parents can encourage them to wear gloves. However, if children have other complaints, such as shortness of breath or body ache, parents must consult a doctor immediately.
Conclusion
All parents desire to have the best health for their children and strive to give them an environment that can nurture their children’s mental and physical health. Still, children develop health issues that require their parents to be vigilant. Parents must be aware of health concerns and should know the preventive measures to keep their children safe. However, if their children fall sick, they must consult a pediatrician and take the necessary steps. Young children have weaker immunity; thus, their bodies may not fight germs or bacteria. A healthy routine and food intake help children build more robust immunity.