Just like adults, kids are not immune to the occasional cold or fever. As a parent, it’s useful to know the other common illnesses they could develop so you can recognize their symptoms and help your children manage them. Below is a list of childhood diseases you should know.
1. Common Cold
Colds, whether triggered by allergies or accompanied by a fever, will probably be the most common sickness your child can catch. Symptoms usually include runny nose, increased body temperature, fatigue, nasal congestion, or coughing. The best way to combat this is through lots of fluids and rest, plus hearty meals to nourish your child.
2. Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease (HMFD)
HMFD is a mild yet contagious disease in children. It is usually characterized by red sores and blisters in the hands, feet, and mouth. At the onset, those who get HMFD develop a fever, followed by a sore throat or general malaise. After a day or so, the blisters appear, which are actually painful rather than itchy.
HMFD often goes away on its own after a week or so, through rest, hydration, hand washing, and managing other symptoms like sore throat and fever. Frequent hand washing is the best way to prevent this disease, as it spreads through close contact with the infected.
3. Bronchitis or bronchiolitis
Bronchitis and bronchiolitis are both lower respiratory tract infections that affect the lungs. They are characterized by severe coughing and usually green or yellow-colored phlegm. Both cases are usually accompanied by fever, chills, fatigue, colds, and general malaise.
Bronchiolitis is more common in children under 2 years of age, while bronchitis can be caught by both adults and children alike. Most cases are mild enough that they go away after a week through rest, hydration, and medication, but the coughing might stay for a few more weeks after recovery.
4. Chickenpox
Chickenpox is a contagious condition that is characterized by small itchy red spots that spread throughout the body. While this mostly affects children, chickenpox can affect any age, which means caution should be taken if your little one has begun to exhibit symptoms. Like others in this list, chickenpox can be managed at home by keeping cool and applying anti-itching lotions to the body. The good news is that once you get chickenpox, you’re unlikely to ever get it again.
5. Measles
Another contagious disease on the list, measles is a respiratory infection that is now highly preventable with a vaccine. Symptoms appear 10-14 days after exposure to the virus, accompanied by symptoms of fever, dry cough, runny nose, sore throat, inflamed eyes, and skin rashes.
If you suspect that your child has measles, it’s best to see a pediatrician right away. This disease needs medical treatment as it may be fatal in some cases, especially in younger children.
6. Strep Throat
A type of sore throat, strep throat is a bacterial infection in which your throat gets scratchy and itchy. This usually goes away on its own in a week, but symptoms of itchiness and difficulty in swallowing must be managed as it could result in your child not wanting to eat or drink.
7. Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
Anyone can get pertussis, but infants are the most vulnerable. Cold-like symptoms usually appear accompanied by a cough. You may hear a “whooping” sound from your child as they gasp for air when they breathe. It’s best to see a doctor for this condition so they can hear and monitor your baby’s breathing and prescribe the correct antibiotics to alleviate the condition.
When Should You See a Pediatrician?
When things get serious, it’s important to have a pediatrician you can talk to right away, such as over video consultations. Here are some symptoms you should look out for, regardless of what sickness your child has:
Signs of dehydration
Difficulty breathing
Symptoms worsen (with or without treatment)
The condition doesn’t improve after 7-10 days
Extremely lowered appetite
They are immunocompromised (diagnosed with a lifelong or delicate condition)
If you feel that your child needs medical attention, do not hesitate to seek help right away. With Doctor Anywhere, you can book a video consultation with a pediatrician at your preferred time. You also have the option to buy medication directly on the app. Enjoy free delivery within 24 hours if you’re based in Metro Manila. Download the DA app today.