COMMON TODDLER ILLNESSES

Toddlers are especially susceptible to illnesses. First, they are exploring the world with their mouths and with fingers that they then put into their mouths. Second, their bodies have yet to build up immunities. So, what are the most common toddler illnesses, and what can you do about them?

1. Colds and Flu. You already know the symptoms that often accompany respiratory ailments: cough, stuffy or runny nose, fever, sore throat, aches, and vomiting. Most of the time, you can treat these symptoms at home with fluids and age-appropriate cough syrups. Breathing problems can be assisted with vapor rubs on the chest and a humidifier in the room where the child sleeps. Note that antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays are not usually very effective in young children. Colds and flu are most often caused by a virus, which doesn't respond to antibiotics. While most colds are easily treatable, severe symptoms could lead to pneumonia. If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, take her to a doctor:

• Her fever rises above 100 degrees.
• Her lips turn slightly blue.
• She coughs up yellow mucus or has an ear discharge.
• You can hear wheezing or she's short of breath.
• Vomiting lasts longer than six hours.
• She has blood in her stool or vomit, or the vomit is green or yellow in color.

2. Ear Aches. Ear aches can occur when fluid accumulates in the middle ear, and if it becomes infected, your child will also develop a fever. If your child pulls at his ear, he may have an ear problem. If he says his ear hurts, and he has a fever or a discharge from the ear, it's best to go ahead and see the doctor. Antibiotics may be in order.

3. Pink Eye. Conjunctivitis or pink eye often accompanies colds and flu. It's usually caused by bacteria, and can cause swelling, redness, and heavy discharge from the eye. It's very contagious, and you should always wash your hands before touching your own eyes. If your child has the condition in only one eye, discourage her from rubbing the other eye. Pink eye causes a great deal of discomfort, and sometimes, the eyes become stuck shut from dried pus. Use a warm wash cloth to gently clean the area so that the eyes can open. If your child develops pink eye, see a doctor. Antibiotic eye drops are often prescribed.

4. Diarrhea. Colds and flu are also often accompanied by diarrhea. This is not a dangerous condition unless it continues for too long. It's often the body's way of releasing germs, but it also forces the body to release lots of fluids. Be sure that your child drinks plenty of water if he has diarrhea, and it's best to avoid anti-diarrhea medications unless your doctor instructs otherwise. The condition should stop on its own within about 3 days, but if you see blood in the stool or the condition is accompanied by vomiting, you should consult a doctor.

5. Dehydration. It's especially easy for your child to become dehydrated if he suffers from a diarrhea or vomiting, and dehydration can be very dangerous. Make sure your child always drinks plenty of fluids. You can detect dehydration if his skin, mouth or tongue appears dry, if his eyes look sunken, if there are no tears when he looks like he wants to cry, or when his urination slows down. There's no need to see a doctor unless the condition becomes so severe that intravenous fluids are necessary. As a parent, however, you will never let your child become that dehydrated. Once you know what to look for, you will simply be able to remedy the situation with water.

6. Anal Itching. This condition is especially common after a bout with diarrhea, but it can also occur exclusive of diarrhea. If you catch your child reaching into her underwear to scratch, or if she pulls at her diaper, you should examine her rectum. The most common cause is inadequate wiping after a bowel movement, which is something that happens frequently when a child is just starting to potty train. But yeast and other culprits can also cause itching, as well as too much consumption of citrus and spicy foods. First, cut down on those foods, and make sure your child wipes sufficiently. You can soak the child in a warm bath with a little bit of baking soda for 10 or 15 minutes, or you can apply some witch hazel with a cotton ball. Keep the area dry, and use soaps without perfumes or dyes in case the itching is caused by an allergy. If the condition doesn't clear up within a few days, consult a doctor, who will probably prescribe an ointment.

7. Choking. This can be very dangerous. Since a little one can put something into his mouth in a split second, you need to know immediately what to do. Of course, do everything you can to keep any small objects out of reach. But if your child is choking on an object or food, don't panic. Your child will usually cough up the culprit naturally. However, you can take the child by the heels and hold him upside down, giving him a firm but gentle slap on the back. For an older toddler, you may have to perform the Heimlich Maneuver. If you can take a formal infant and child first aid/CPR class, you'll be better prepared for such situations. Of course, if your efforts don't work right way, call the paramedics immediately.

Prevention is Your Best Defense

Obviously, you want to keep your child as healthy as possible. Be sure to keep small objects out of reach of your toddler, and make sure she drinks plenty of fluids. Sleep deprivation is an often overlooked indirect cause of illness, as it will weaken a child's immune system, making him more susceptible to anything and everything. A toddler should sleep at least 12 hours daily between a nap during the day and night time slumber. This is one of your best defenses against illness.

Tip of the Week: Your pharmacist is often your best first source for help when treating minor illnesses. Pharmacists are very knowledgeable about the latest medications available without a prescription and how well they have performed for his customers.

I hope you enjoyed this article.