A developing immune system means that children’s health is constantly changing. A sick child can create concerns for the child, parents and carers.
With families of their own, the doctors of Affinity Family Medical understand what it is like to have a sick child.
They are able to explain in simple terms the condition to you and your child and ease any concerns through a proactive and pragmatic approach.
Common Conditions In Childhood
Some issues related to children’s health may be mild and can be treated easily from home. Other conditions may require more investigation. Doctors advise and manage a variety of children’s health issues, and here are some of the most common:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Colds
- Conjunctivitis
- Food intolerances
- Gastroenteritis
- Hand, foot and mouth disease
- Impetigo
- Lice or nits
- Warts
- Worms
When to act
No one knows your child better than you, so your judgement will be pivotal in the decision to seek advice from your doctor. Regardless of what you choose to do please be aware that our doctors are here to support your needs.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that children’s symptoms can deteriorate quickly, especially if they are very young. Drowsiness, dehydration, pale or blue skin, being unresponsive, severe pain and seizures are signs of serious illness. If you see any of these symptoms it’s important to seek urgent medical attention.
Optimising Children’s Health
There are certain things that can be done to assist your child’s health.
Keeping an up to date immunisation schedule will protect your child and the community against preventable diseases such as measles.
Teaching good hygiene to children is important, as it is for those who care for them. Many childhood infections are easily spread, so daily hygiene is one of the most effective ways to protect ourselves and those around us from illness. Careful hand-washing with soap and water can be taught to children and emphasised that it should be done before eating, after going to the toilet or touching animals and unclean things.
Brushing teeth twice a day is an extension of good hygiene and is vital to avoiding tooth decay.
Being sun smart, avoiding household chemicals and of course staying away from cigarette smoke can all contribute to your child’s health. Medication should only be given when prescribed by a doctor, and when recommended by a pharmacist please ensure to give your child the correct dose for their weight or age.