Common Pediatric Conditions: A Guide to Childhood Illnesses and Treatments

Most children experience some common illnesses growing up, and parents, especially first-timers, have a difficult time managing these health issues. While rushing to see pediatricians is natural, a little knowledge of some common childhood diseases can help parents recognise early symptoms and opt for suitable treatment options.

Common Cold

One of the most well-known childhood illnesses across the globe, the common cold is typically easy to spot. Symptoms may include a runny nose, watery eyes, a cough, frequent sneezing, and sometimes even a fever. To relieve these symptoms, please keep your child hydrated with water and juices high in vitamin C. It is also essential to keep your child away from crowded places. You can use saline nasal drops to alleviate congestion; however, over-the-counter medication is not recommended for young children. If the child doesn't feel better in a day or two and also has a fever, take them to a doctor for further treatment.

Fever

If a child is not too young, you may give them fever-reducing medicines such as ibuprofenif they are running a temperature but be very mindful about the dosage. If the fever persists, rush to the pediatrician for a proper evaluation. Do keep a check on other health issues and symptoms if any persist along with fever.

Stomach Flu

The stomach flu causes diarrhoea, vomiting, and even fever. Keep your child hydrated—give them water, juices, and electrolytes—and give them easy-to-digest food. Also, make sure your child doesn't come into contact with other children because stomach flu, like most flu, is contagious. If the condition worsens, consult a doctor immediately.

Chicken Pox

A very common and contagious childhood illness, chicken pox calls for constant care. Chickenpox symptoms include fever and red, itchy spots on the body and face. In the event that your child catches chicken pox, your first step is to inform their childcare centre or school about it. As the disease progresses, your child will want to scratch the red spots, so you should trim their fingernails and let them wear gloves at night. To relieve itching, run them a cool bath. If the rash spreads to the eyes or you notice any severe symptoms, such as vomiting or shortness of breath, take your child to the hospital.

Ear Infections

Ear infections are extremely common in young children and can cause ear pain, fever, and irritability. It is best to check with a specialist before giving your child any antibiotics or pain relievers.

Asthma

Asthmatic children have symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. The disease requires long-term management. See a doctor to devise an asthma care plan that involves inhalers and avoiding triggers such as dust, pollen, animal fur, and over-the-counter medications.

Constipation

If you thought constipation affected only adults, you are mistaken. Many children go through phases when they have difficulty pooping. They may also complain about symptoms such as a hard abdomen, discomfort, and pain while having a bowel movement. Please note that giving children over-the-counter medicine for constipation is usually a bad idea. Children have different bowl movements at various stages of growing up. So, it is best to see a pediatrician for the best course of treatment.

Besides these common childhood diseases, parents and caregivers should also read up on allergic rhinitis (allergies), eczema, bronchitis, and bacterial sinusitis.

Children's illnesses are better managed if parents and caregivers understand common paediatric conditions. Also, better-informed parents understand the severity of symptoms and know when to consult a pediatrician, which ensures timely treatment.

There are several online paediatrician courses in India that can equip healthcare providers with the proper knowledge to start practice in clinics. The popular online medical courses provide illustrative pediatric lectures, and worthy notes aligned with the CBME curriculum. The online courses typically consist of informative paediatric webinars by experts, case studies, and information on identifying common disease symptoms.

Also, paediatric MBBS is a highly lucrative career path. Offered by numerous medical colleges, paediatric MBBS prepares graduates to play an essential role in improving child health, reducing child mortality, and significantly impacting the lives of people and society alike.