Ear infections happen when there is inflammation— usually from trapped bacteria—in the middle ear, the part of the ear connects to the back of the nose and throat. The most common type of ear infection is otitis media, which results when fluid builds up behind the eardrum and parts of the middle ear become infected and… Continue reading Childhood Ear Infections Explained
Month: August 2022
Introduction
Ear infections in babies and toddlers are extremely common. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, five out of six children will experience an ear infection before their third birthday. “Many parents are concerned that an ear infection will affect their child’s hearing irreversibly—or that an ear infection will go undetected and untreated,” says David… Continue reading Introduction
Key points about the common cold in peds
The common cold is one of the most common illnesses. Most children will have at least 6 to 8 colds a year. Most colds are caused by rhinoviruses. Your child can catch a cold through airborne droplets from or through direct contact with a sick person. Sneezing, coughing, and a runny nose are common symptoms.… Continue reading Key points about the common cold in peds
When should I call my child’s healthcare provider?
Contact your child’s healthcare provider right away if your child has: A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by the healthcare provider Symptoms that last more than 10 days Symptoms that don’t get better after taking over-the-counter medicines
Cough and Cold medicines used in peds
Drug Group Examples Precautions 1.Analgesics and anti-pyreticsParacetamol and ibuprofen*Aspirin is not recommended for use in children under 16 years of age unless otherwise prescribed by a doctor.2.DecongestantsOral: pseudoephedrine*, ephedrine* and phenylephrine Topical: oxymetazoline or xylometazoline nasal dropsDecongestants should not be used for longer than 7 days as rebound congestion can occur.3.Nasal dropsNormal saline (sodium chloride 0.9%) nasal dropsAdministration… Continue reading Cough and Cold medicines used in peds
General advice
Since common cold is a viral infection, antibiotics will not work. The mainstay of treatment is to relieve the associated symptoms. Drinking plenty of fluid and taking more rest. Upon advice from doctor or pharmacist, taking drugs that alleviate symptoms could help your child feel better.Encourage children to wash their hands with liquid soap regularly,… Continue reading General advice
Prevent the common cold in my child
Keep children away from people with a cold. Teach children to wash their hands often. Have them wash their hands before eating, and after using the bathroom, playing with animals, or coughing or sneezing. Carry an alcohol-based hand gel for times when soap and water aren’t available. The gel should be at least 60% alcohol.… Continue reading Prevent the common cold in my child
Possible complications of the common cold
Some of the complications that might occur if your child gets a cold include: Ear infections Sinus infections Pneumonia Throat infections
Common cold treatment in a child
There is no cure for the common cold. Most children recover from colds on their own. Antibiotics don’t work against viral infections, so they are not prescribed. Instead, treatment is focused on helping ease your child’s symptoms until the illness passes. To help your child feel better: Give your child plenty of fluids, such as… Continue reading Common cold treatment in a child
How is the common cold diagnosed in a child?
Most common colds are diagnosed based on symptoms. But cold symptoms may seem like other bacterial infections, allergies, and health problems.