In the early stages of a child’s life, they are susceptible to a variety of illnesses. Young immune systems are still developing and have not yet built up appropriate resistance. The good news is that many childhood illnesses are easily treated and shouldn’t cause much lasting damage.
Kids are vulnerable to three illnesses, in particular, thanks to the fact that they are surrounded by other young kids who just love sharing their bacteria.
Pink Eye
This is a common problem that can affect kids of any age. It is highly contagious and is often caused by the same bacteria and viruses that lead to colds and other infections.
Kids are especially vulnerable to pink eye because it can be easily spread by touch or from touching something that the infected person has used, such as a towel or tissue. It is important to teach your children the importance of thorough hand washing at a young age.
Treatment for pink eye will vary depending on the cause of the infection. The symptoms should resolve by themselves if the pinkeye was caused by a virus; an infection caused by bacteria may need antibacterial eye drops, which are usually available over the counter. Regardless, you can help your child by using hot and cold compresses. If symptoms don’t improve after a few days, give your pediatrician a call to see what they recommend.
Colds
The common cold is impossible to avoid. Schools are notorious breeding grounds for it, and your child is likely to have at least four bouts a year. Unfortunately, colds hit kids harder than adults, but in most cases, they get better over the course of a couple of weeks.
While your child has cold symptoms, make sure they remain well-hydrated. Also, keeping the air moist will help your child get better. Products like Vicks VapoRub are also great for relieving congestion.
Colds are usually not a cause for concern, but it is important to monitor your child’s symptoms to make sure they don’t develop complications such as ear infections.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
This is another usual suspect that is easily spread among children. It has some quite unpleasant symptoms, but they usually get better by themselves.
If your child starts developing mouth ulcers accompanied by a spotty rash on their hands and feet, then they most likely have a hand, foot, and mouth infection. You can treat this condition at home by ensuring that your child drinks lots of fluids and eats soft food. Over-the-counter medicines can be purchased to help with the pain.
During this period, it is best to keep your child away from school, as they can easily pass on the infection to others.
When to Call Your Pediatrician
Most of these conditions can be treated at home and shouldn’t require a visit to the clinic. If, however, your child has a high fever, problems breathing, and isn’t eating, you should contact your pediatrician right away.
In the case of minor symptoms, you can also use our free child illness symptom checker here.