Common Pediatric Diseases and When to See a Doctor
As parents, we take every measure to ensure our children’s well-being. But no matter how much we try, children get exposed to germs a lot. Some illnesses are short-lived and usually resolve on their own with home remedies, but others might require a visit to the children’s hospital in Navi Mumbai. Knowing when to seek a pediatrician’s advice is important for your peace of mind. In this post, we’ll walk you through common pediatric diseases and when to see a doctor.
1. Common Cold
Children are more prone to common colds because their immune systems have not yet fully developed. Symptoms include sneezing, a stuffy nose, a cough, mild fever, headache, and a sore throat.
Most cases of the common cold are caused by rhinovirus. These are acute, viral infections that typically do not require pediatric visits. That said, if the symptoms persist for 10 days or longer, see a pediatrician.
2. Ear Infections
Ear infections are not uncommon in children, particularly those under 2 years old. If your child has had a cold, the area behind their eardrum might get filled with fluid. This can make them prone to bacterial or viral infections.
Symptoms include tugging at the ear, earache, difficulty hearing, fever, and loss of appetite. See a pediatrician in Navi Mumbai if you suspect an ear infection. They will likely recommend antibiotics in combination with pain-relief medications.
3. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
HFMD is another viral illness that’s common in children below 5. It causes blister-like rash on the hands, feet, and mouth. Sometimes, the rash appears on the buttocks. Your child may not be able to eat solids or drink fluids due to mouth sores. HFM might also cause fever. It resolves within 7 to 10 days. Medication to reduce the fever and relieve the sore throat may help.
4. Chickenpox
Chickenpox, caused by the varicella-zoster virus, is a common viral infection in children under 12 years of age. Symptoms include rash with red spots, fever, irritability, and constant itching. The infection typically clears within 1 to 2 weeks. You can manage your child’s symptoms with doctor-prescribed antihistamines.
5. Stomach Infection (Gastroenteritis)
Stomach infections are common in young children. These are usually transmitted through contaminated food and water, or through close contact with a sick child. Children with gastroenteritis have diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, tiredness, and loss of appetite. Take your child to a pediatrician if their fever goes above 102°F or they show signs of dehydration.
6. Throat Infections
Another common illness in children is a throat infection. It can be a sore throat or a more serious issue, such as strep throat. If your child has a scratchy or sore throat with fever, pain when swallowing, a hoarse voice, and bad breath, see a pediatrician.
Viral throat infections clear on their own and are usually accompanied by a runny nose, sneezing, and a cough. Strep throat, caused by the bacteria Streptococcus, requires antibiotics.
Conclusion
Illnesses in children are quite common. While most are short-lived and don’t require a hospital visit, you must always trust your instinct. If something feels off about your kids or they are unusually unwell, see a pediatrician.