Health Information for Your Family

Children (as) sick

What should you do when your child (a) falls and you get a bump on the head? Nee
d to go to the emergency room now? How serious is croup cough that just did it s
tart? These are questions that we all have and that frequently arise at night an
d on weekends when the doctor's office is closed.
Home care for symptoms of Adults
What to do when you twist your ankle? Need to go to the emergency room now? How
bad cough you've had for three days? " These are questions that we all have and
that frequently arise at night and on weekends when your doctor is less availabl
e. Influenza (Flu)) Influenza, also known as influenza, is a highly contagious v
iral disease of the airways. Although the flu affects both sexes and all age gro
ups, boys tend to get it more often than adults. This is a seasonal disease, occ
urring between November and April, occurring mostly between late December and ea
rly March.
What are the symptoms of flu?
The flu is often confused with the common cold, but flu symptoms tend to develop
quickly (usually between one and four days after the person is exposed to the f
lu virus) and are often stronger than the typical sneezing and own stuffy nose c
old. Symptoms of flu may include:
• • • • • • • • • • • • • •
fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, dizziness, loss of appetite, fatigue coug
h runny nose sore throat, weakness, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, ear infection
When a baby gets the flu, may give the impression that suddenly appears unwell o
r "does not look well."
How long does the flu?
After 5 days, fever and other symptoms usually disappear, but may persist cough
and weakness. All symptoms usually disappear within one or two weeks. Anyway, it
is important to take the flu seriously because it can progress to pneumonia and
other complications that may endanger life, especially when it affects infants,
the elderly and people with chronic health problems.
Is it contagious?
The flu is contagious, it spreads through virus-infected droplets that are expel
led by coughing or sneezing. People with flu are contagious while symptoms (most
of the time the symptoms last about one week for adults, but children can last
up to two weeks). The flu usually occurs in small outbreaks, but epidemics occur
periodically. Influenza epidemics (when the disease spreads very quickly and af
fects many people in the same area at the same time) usually occur during the tw
o or three weeks following the onset of the first cases, but then begin to decre
ase cases .
What about the flu vaccine?
Usually given between September and mid-November (but may be given later in the
year), the flu vaccine reduces the odds that the average person from getting the
flu during that season as much as 80%. But because the flu vaccine protects aga
inst infection caused only a small number of viruses that can cause flu-like sym
ptoms, the fact that a person put the vaccine is no guarantee that will not get
sick during influenza season. But if a person has the flu vaccine, it is likely
that they have fewer symptoms and milder. Administered as a shot in the arm, the
flu shot contains killed flu viruses that do not cause the flu to her son, but
will make your body fight infection by influenza virus. If a person puts a vacci
ne containing certain strains of influenza, will be protected against these stra
ins in particular in the case of coming into contact with them. Even if you vacc
inate your child last year, that will not protect against the flu virus this yea
r, and that protection "outdated" because flu viruses constantly change. This is
why the vaccine has to be updated every year to include the latest strains of t
he virus. For children under 9 years to get the shot for the first time, it shou
ld be administered in two injections separated by a period of a month. After adm
inistration of the vaccine, the body may take 1 to 2 weeks to develop protection
against influenza. If the vaccine is given before the flu is in full swing€the
body will have more opportunities to develop immunity or protection against the
virus. Although the vaccine can be administered during the period of the year wi
th more flu, it is best to put your child's sooner than later, if the doctor dee
ms necessary. However, not everybody needs a flu shot. At times when there is a
shortage of vaccines, some people need more than others. You, your child's pedia
trician and family doctor should consider what people in your family should get
vaccinated each year. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), American
Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(CDC) recommend administering the flu vaccine to the following groups of people
who have a higher risk for influenza-related complications:
• • • • • • •
Infants and children between 6 and 59 months all the people who are 65 years or
more women will be pregnant during flu season all persons who work with infants
under six months people will stay for long periods in residential care such as n
ursing homes. any child or adult who has a chronic illness such as asthma staff
medical services are in direct contact with patients
•
children - from 6 months to 18 years - the continued long-term treatment with as
pirin.
People should not put the flu vaccine include:
• •
• • •
Babies under 6 months any person who is severely allergic to eggs and / or its d
erivatives - because the ingredients of the flu vaccine, in fact, are grown insi
de eggs. If your child is allergic to eggs or their derivatives, tell your pedia
trician before putting the flu vaccine. anyone who has ever had a severe reactio
n to influenza vaccine. all people who suffer from Guillain Barre syndrome, a ra
re medical condition that affects the immune and nervous systems. anyone who is
unwell and have fever.
Apart from the injection, there is another option for flu vaccine: through a nas
al spray. This vaccine is available in some countries since 2004 and currently i
ts use is approved for people aged 5 to 49 years. But the nasal spray is not for
everyone and is contraindicated for children and adults with high irrigation. A
lso, since this spray contains live flu virus can cause mild flu-like symptoms,
including runny nose, headache, vomiting, muscle aches and fever. Ask your child
's doctor if he can-or should-use this type of flu vaccine.
Are there other ways to avoid spreading the flu?
Although there is no guaranteed way-including the vaccination to prevent a perso
n from getting the flu, the easiest way to reduce the chances of transmitting th
e disease once contracted is to avoid the crowds. Since you can not cage a child
, here are some guidelines that can keep you and your family to prevent the spre
ad of infections like flu:
• • • • •
Wash hands thoroughly and frequently. Do not ever get used tissues. Do not share
 glasses, cups or silverware until you feel better. Staying home and not go to w
ork or school when you have the flu. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue whe
n coughing or sneezing.
How is the flu?
In most cases, the flu does not require specific medical treatment. But some chi
ldren with chronic diseases may worsen if the flu, and may require hospitalizati
on. The flu can also be dangerous in newborns. A seriously ill child or other sp
ecial circumstances, the doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication to allevia
te the symptoms of flu, to be administered later than 48 hours after infection.
Here are some tips for a child who was healthy to regain health after contractin
g the flu:
• • •
•
Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Sleep a lot and take it easy. Takin
g acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen to reduce fever and relieve flu sympt
oms. Anyway, do not give aspirin to your child unless directed by your doctor. W
earing several layers of clothing, as the flu makes you move quickly from cold t
o hot and vice versa. Wearing several layers, like a shirt, a sweater and a bata
facilita the process of uncovering shelter or as needed.
When should I call the pediatrician?
You should call your pediatrician about your child exhibits symptoms of flu and:
• • • •
think your child should get a flu shot flu symptoms worsen your child your child
has high fever for several days at his son seems to improve initially, but then
feels worse than before.
However, in most cases, the flu usually subsides within one to two weeks with re
st, care and affection.
TEMPERATURE IN CHILDREN
Probably all parents have experienced the following scenario ever: wake up at mi
dnight to find his son standing beside her bed, lit, heated and sweating. The fr
ont of his little hot. Immediately suspect their child has a fever but are not s
ure what to do next. Should find the thermometer? Should they call the doctor? E
ven if your child has a fever, you may not be anything serious. Although that ma
y scare your child's temperature rises, fever itself is not harmful and in fact
may be good, and sometimes is the way for the body fight infection. And it is no
t necessary to treat all types of fever. However, the high fever can disturb you
r child and aggravate problems such as dehydration. But you can take steps to pr
operly take the temperature of your child and make you feel comfortable when it
is higher than normal. In this article we will talk about the fever, how to meas
ure it and treat it, and when to call the pediatrician.
What is fever?
Fever occurs when the "thermostat" the body's internal body temperature rises ab
ove its normal level. This thermostat is in the part of
brain called the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus knows what temperature should th
e body (usually around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit or 37 degrees Celsius) and sends
messages to the body to keep it so. The body temperature of most people varies e
ven a little over a day: usually, is a little lower in the morning and a little
higher in the evening and can fluctuate when children run around, play and exerc
ise. However, sometimes the hypothalamus "reset" the body and increases its temp
erature in response to an infection, illness or some other reason. So why does t
he hypothalamus directs the body to vary the temperature? The researchers believ
e that increasing the temperature is the way for the body to fight germs that ca
use infections and make the body a less comfortable place for them.
What causes fever?
It is important to remember that fever itself is not a disease most often is a s
ymptom of an underlying problem. Potential causes of fever are: Infection: Most
fevers are caused by an infection or other illness. By stimulating the natural d
efense mechanisms, fever helps the body fight infections.
Excess clothing: Babies, especially newborns, may have a fever if
are overdressed or are in a hot environment because they can not regulate their
body temperature.
Immunizations: Babies and children can have some fever after
administration of a vaccine. Although teething may cause a slight increase in bo
dy temperature is probably not the cause of your child's temperature is above 10
0 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius).
How do I know if my child's fever is a symptom of something serious?
Before, doctors advised treating fever based on the temperature. But now, they r
ecommend taking into account both the temperature and general condition of the c
hild. Children with a temperature below 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.9 degrees Cel
sius) usually do not require medication, unless you feel uncomfortable. This rul
e has one important exception: if your baby is 3 months or less and the rectal t
emperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) or higher, call your
doctor or go to the emergency department. Even a slight fever can be a symptom
of a possible serious infection in very young children. In older children, takin
g into account the behavior and physical activity level. By observing the behavi
or of your child, you may have an idea that this is a minor illness or needs to
see a doctor.
Probably the disease is not serious if your child:
• • • • •
still wants to play eating and drinking well is alert and smiles have normal ski
n color looks fine when I low temperature
And do not worry too much about a child with a fever that will not eat. That is
common infections that cause fever.
How do I know if my child has a fever?
A soft kiss on the forehead or lightly touching the skin of your child is often
enough to know if you have fever. However, this method of measuring the temperat
ure (called tactile temperature) depends on the person who takes and does not pr
ovide an exact level of the child's temperature. With a reliable thermometer, yo
u can tell if your child has a fever when his temperature is in one of the follo
wing levels:
• • •
100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) measured rectally (in the bottom)
99.5 degrees Fahrenheit (37.5 degrees Celsius) measured orally (by mouth) 99 deg
rees Fahrenheit (37.2 degrees Celsius) measured in the armpit (underarm)
But the fever does not say if your child is very ill. A simple cold or other vir
al infection sometimes produce a very high fever (between 102 and 104 degrees Fa
hrenheit or 38.9 to 40 degrees Celsius), but usually does not indicate that the
problem is severe. And serious infections may not cause fever or body temperatur
e decrease abnormally, especially in young children. Since fever may increase or
decrease a child with fever may have chills when body temperature begins to ris
e and the body tries to generate more heat. The child may sweat as the body rele
ases heat and the temperature begins to drop. Sometimes, children with fever may
breathe faster than normal and have a higher heart rate. You should call your p
ediatrician if your child has difficulty breathing or breathing faster than norm
al, or is breathing fast when you have a low fever.
What kind of thermometer should be used?
Whichever type of thermometer you choose, make sure you know to use it properly
to get an accurate reading. Keep and follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
Digital thermometers usually provide quicker and more accurate data. They come i
n
many sizes and shapes and are available in most supermarkets and pharmacies, at
various prices. Although you should read the manufacturer's instructions to dete
rmine the methods for which the thermometer is designed, many digital thermomete
rs are used for the following types of temperature measurement:
• • •
oral (mouth), rectally (in the rectum), axillary (underarm)
Digital thermometers usually have a flexible plastic tube with a sensor
temperature at one end and an easy to read digital display on the other.
Electronic ear thermometers measure the tympanic temperature: the
temperature inside the ear canal. Although fast, accurate and easy to use in old
er children, electronic ear thermometers are not as accurate as digital when use
d in very young children, and are more expensive. The American Academy of Pediat
rics (AAP, for its acronym in English) does not recommend the use of electronic
ear thermometers for infants younger than 3 months.
Plastic strip thermometers (small plastic strips that are attached to the
child's forehead) can tell if your child has a fever but are not reliable in mea
suring the exact temperature, especially in infants and children. If you need to
know the exact temperature of your child, plastic strip thermometers are not ap
propriate.
The pacifier thermometers may seem appropriate but are also unreliable and not
be used in infants under 3 months. It is also necessary that the child has a pac
ifier in his mouth for several minutes without moving, something almost impossib
le for most babies and toddlers.
Mercury thermometers were used frequently but the AAP advises against
use them for fear of possible exposure to mercury, which is an environmental tox
in. (If you still have a mercury thermometer, do not throw them away because mer
cury can leak out. Ask your doctor or local health department how and where to d
ispose of your mercury thermometer.) As all parents know, take the temperature a
t which a child can be challenging twists. But it is one of the leading medical
device to determine if your child is sick or has an infection. The method you ch
oose to measure the temperature of your child depends on age and whether your ch
ild is willing to cooperate. If your child is under three months, you'll get mor
e reliable data if the rectal temperature measured with a digital thermometer. E
lectronic ear thermometers are not recommended for babies under 3 months because
their ear canals are usually too small. If your child is between 3 months and 4
years, you can use a digital thermometer to measure the rectal temperature or a
n electronic ear thermometer to measure temperature
inside the ear canal.€You could also use a digital thermometer to measure axilla
ry temperature, although this method is less accurate. If your child is over fou
r years, you can use a digital thermometer to measure oral temperature if your c
hild cooperates. However, children may often coughing or breathing through your
mouth because they have a stuffy nose are not able to keep her mouth closed long
enough for an accurate oral reading. In these cases, you can use the tympanic m
ethod (with an electronic ear thermometer) or axillary method (with a digital th
ermometer).
How do I use a digital thermometer?
The digital thermometer provides the most accurate and quick measure the tempera
ture of your child and can be placed in the mouth, armpit or rectum. Before usin
g this device, read the instructions carefully. Need to know how the thermometer
announces the completion of the reading (usually by a hit or a series of blasts
, or the temperature is displayed visually on the screen flashing digital thermo
meter). Then, push the thermometer and make sure the screen is cleaned of previo
us readings. If your thermometer has disposable plastic protective covers, place
according to the manufacturer's instructions. Remember to discard the cover aft
er use and clean the thermometer according to manufacturer's instructions before
putting it back in its case.
To measure the rectal temperature:
Before becoming parents, most people are repulsed by the thought of measuring th
e rectal temperature. But do not worry, it's easy: 1. Lubricate the tip of the t
hermometer with a water-soluble lubricant gel (ask your pharmacist or pediatrici
an). 2. Place your child face down on his lap and hold the head or lay it down o
n a flat and firm, such as a changing table. 3. Place one hand on the lumbar are
a of your child not to move. 4. With the other hand, insert the lubricated therm
ometer into the rectum through the anal opening, half an inch (1.25 2.5 centimet
ers). If you feel resistance, do not continue. 5. Hold the thermometer between t
he second and third fingers. Reassure your child and talk quietly. 6. Wait until
you hear the corresponding number of puffs or other signal that can already rea
d the temperature. If you want to record, record the temperature and time of day
.
To measure the oral temperature: This process is easy in an older child and
willing to cooperate. 1. Wait 20-30 minutes after your child finishes eating or
drinking to measure oral temperature and make sure your child does not have gum
or candy in the mouth. 2. Place the tip of the thermometer under the tongue and
ask your child to close her lips. Remind not clench your teeth and ask you to re
lax and breathe normally through your nose.
3. Wait until you hear the corresponding number of puffs or other signal that ca
n already know the temperature. Read and write the number that appears on the sc
reen and the time of day.
To measure axillary temperature: This is a practical way of measuring
your child's temperature. Although not as accurate as rectal or oral temperature
in a child to cooperate, some parents prefer it if your child especially can no
t hold a thermometer in the mouth.
• • •
Remove your child's shirt and undershirt and put the thermometer in the armpit (
should touch only the skin, not clothes). Place the arm of her son on his chest
to hold the thermometer. Wait until you hear the corresponding number of puffs o
r other signal that can already read the temperature. Read and write the number
that appears on the screen and the time of day.
Whatever method you choose, here are some additional tips:
•
•
Never take your child's temperature immediately after bathing or has been very w
arm for some time and this may affect the level of temperature. Never leave a ch
ild alone when he is taking the temperature.
How I can make my child feel better?
Again, it is necessary to treat all types of fever. And, in most cases, the feve
r should only be treated if it causes discomfort to your child. Here are some th
ings you can do to alleviate symptoms that often accompany a fever:
•
•
• •
•
•
If your child is fussy or appears uncomfortable, you can give acetaminophen (par
acetamol) or ibuprofen as recommended by the container depending on the age or w
eight. If you do not know the recommended dose or if your child is under two yea
rs, call your doctor to find out how many to administer. Remember that fever med
ication will lower the temperature temporarily but will not come back to normal
and will not cure the underlying cause of the fever.€(Never give aspirin to a ch
ild younger than 12 years because it is associated with Reye syndrome, a rare bu
t potentially fatal). Bathe your child with a sponge to make you feel more comfo
rtable and help you lower the fever. Use only warm water, cold water can cause s
hivering, which tends to increase body temperature. Never use alcohol (intoxicat
ion can occur when the skin absorbs heat) or ice packs / cold baths (they can ca
use chills, increasing body temperature). Dress your child in lightweight clothi
ng and cover with a thin sheet or blanket. Excess clothing and shelter can preve
nt body heat is released, causing an increase in temperature. Make sure the temp
erature of your child's room is pleasant, neither too hot nor too cold.
•
•
• • •
Give your child plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, fever causes a rapid loss
of fluids. Water, soup, popsicles and flavored gelatin are good choices. Avoid
caffeinated beverages, including soft drinks and tea, because they can increase
urine production. If your child also has vomiting and / or diarrhea, ask your do
ctor whether you should give him a special rehydration solution for children. Th
is solution can be found in pharmacies and supermarkets. Do not give energy drin
ks, they are not designed for toddlers and added sugars may make diarrhea worse.
Also, limit your consumption of fruits and apple juice. In general, let your ch
ild eat whatever he wants (in reasonable amounts) but do not force them to eat i
f you do not like. Make sure your child gets plenty of rest. No need to spend al
l day in bed, but a sick child should stay calm. It is better that the child doe
s not go to school or daycare if you have fever. Most doctors believe that you c
an go back to school when the temperature has been normal for 24 hours.
When should I call the pediatrician?
The exact temperature that should result in a call to the doctor depends on the
child's age, disease, and if the child has other symptoms besides the fever. Cal
l your doctor if you have:
• •
an infant under 3 months with a temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degr
ees Celsius) a child over three months with a temperature above 104 degrees Fahr
enheit (40 degrees Celsius)
If a child older than 3 months has a fever below 104 degrees Fahrenheit, call yo
ur doctor if the child also:
• • • • • •
refuses fluids or seems too ill to drink has persistent diarrhea or continuous v
omiting symptoms of dehydration has a specific condition (eg., sore throat or ea
r) has more than 24 hours with fever if a child under two years, or 72 hours if
greater recurring fever, but only lasted several hours every night
Go to the emergency room if your child has any of the following symptoms in addi
tion to fever:
• • • • •
inconsolable crying for several hours, extreme irritability, lethargy or difficu
lty waking rash or purple spots that look like small bruises on the skin (which
were not before his son became ill) lips, tongue and fingernails
• • • • • • •
soft spot in his head that looks like a stiff neck lump severe headache and refu
se to move sagging difficulty breathing that does not disappear when you clear t
he nose and drooling forward tilt seizures
Also, ask your pediatrician what are their guidelines as to call in case of feve
r.
Fever: Some common childhood
Every child has a fever once and, in most cases, return to normal after a few da
ys. In older babies and children (but not necessarily in infants under 3 months)
is more important to the child's behavior than the thermometer reading. Everyon
e gets angry when you have a fever. It is normal and is something to be expected
. But if you ever have doubts about what to do or what it might mean that fever,
or if your child gets sick at an alarming rate, even without a fever, call your
pediatrician for advice.
VOMITING IN CHILDREN
Most cases of vomiting in children is caused by gastroenteritis, usually due to
a virus that infects the digestive tract. (Gastroenteritis is sometimes called "
stomach flu" and, in addition to vomiting, also may present with nausea and diar
rhea). These infections usually do not last long and are more annoying than dang
erous. However, if kids (especially infants) are unable to take fluids adequatel
y and, apart from vomiting, diarrhea, could become dehydrated.€Your most importa
nt intervention may be calm and reassure the child, it is normal for vomiting fr
ightening for young children (and also parents), and exhausting for a child of a
ny age. Reassure your child and take appropriate measures to prevent dehydration
are key for a speedy recovery.
What to do when your child is vomiting: In infants under 6 months:
• •
Avoid giving plain water to an infant a few months or days unless specified by y
our child's doctor how much to give. Offer your child small amounts, but frequen
tly, about 2 or 3 teaspoons, or up to 20 ml, of an oral electrolyte solution eve
ry 15 to 20 minutes
•
•
•
•
•
with a spoon or syringe. Oral electrolyte solutions (available in most supermark
ets or pharmacies and also called oral electrolyte maintenance solutions) contai
n salts in concentrations to replace what is lost through vomiting or diarrhea,
and also contain some sugar. It is particularly important that any fluids given
to infants and young children have the correct salt balance (unflavored electrol
yte solutions are best for young babies). Gradually increase the amount of the s
olution you're giving your child if he is able to tolerate it for more than a co
uple of hours without vomiting. For example, if the baby takes usually about 120
ml per feed, slowly step up the amount of solution over the course of the day to
give 120ml. Do not give your child a more amount of electrolyte solution which
usually eat in one take, this will overfill a stomach already irritated and will
likely cause more vomiting. When your child goes for a period of time (more tha
n 8 hours) without vomiting, you can reintroduce formula slowly to your child, i
f you have opted for artificial feeding. Start with small (20 to 30ml) and more
frequent feeds than usual, gradually increasing the amount of each take to reach
the normal pattern of breastfeeding the baby. If your infant already eats baby
cereal, it's OK to start solids in small quantities. If your infant is exclusive
ly breastfeeding and vomits (not just spits up, but vomits what seems to be a co
mplete take) more than once, then breastfeed for 5-10 minutes every two hours. I
f vomiting continues, call your doctor. After 8 hours without vomiting, you can
resume breastfeeding normally. If your baby is less than 1 month old and vomitin
g all feeds (not just spitting up), immediately call your pediatrician.
For babies 6 months to 1 year:
• •
•
•
•
Avoid giving plain water to an infant under one year unless specified by your ch
ild's doctor how much to give. Offer your child small amounts, but frequently, a
bout 3 teaspoons, or about 20 ml, of an oral electrolyte solution every 15 to 20
minutes. It is important that the fluids in infants less than a year containing
salts in the concentrations required to restore what has been lost through vomi
ting or diarrhea. The unflavored oral electrolyte solutions may not be pleasing
to a baby weighing more than six months. The market may also find solutions with
flavor, or you can add half a teaspoon (about 3 ml) of soft fruit juice to each
feeding of unflavored oral electrolyte solution. Electrolyte solution poles are
often appealing to infants of this age group and have the advantage of favoring
the slow intake of fluids. Gradually increase the amount of the solution if the
baby is able to tolerate it for more than a couple of hours without vomiting. F
or example, if your baby takes usually about 120 ml per feed, slowly step up the
amount of solution over the course of the day to give 120 ml. Do not give your
child a more amount of electrolyte solution which usually eat in one take, this
will overfill a stomach already irritated and will likely cause more vomiting.
•
•
When your child carry more than eight hours without vomiting, you can reintroduc
e formula slowly to your child. Start with small (between 30 and 60 ml) and more
frequent feeds than usual, gradually increasing the amount of each take to reac
h the normal pattern of breastfeeding the baby. If your child was accustomed to
take solid, such as bananas, cereals, cookies or other soft foods for babies, yo
u can reintroduce solid feedings in small quantities. If your child vomits withi
n 24 hours€you can resume your normal feeding routine.
For children 1 year onwards:
•
• •
•
Give your child a liquid diet (avoiding milk and dairy products) in small amount
s (2 teaspoons to 2 tablespoons, or up to 30 ml) every 15 minutes. A clear liqui
d diet includes: o ice chips or sips of water. or flavored oral electrolyte solu
tions, or add 1 / 2 teaspoon (about 3 ml) of juice from fruit acid is not a unfl
avored oral electrolyte solution. Poles or oral electrolyte solution. If your ch
ild vomits, then start with a smaller amount of fluid (2 teaspoons, or about 5 m
l) and follow the directions above. If your child is eight hours without vomitin
g, gradually introduce a bland diet of soft foods based. But do not force your c
hild to eat anything, and he will tell you they're hungry. Saltine crackers, toa
st, juice, or mild soups (some noodles are OK), mashed potatoes, rice and bread.
If your child does not vomit for 24 hours, you can slowly resume your usual die
t. Wait 2-3 days before resuming milk products.
When should I call the pediatrician?
The greatest risk of vomiting caused by gastroenteritis is dehydration. Call you
r doctor if your child refuses fluids or if vomiting continues after following t
he directions above. Call your doctor if you notice any signs of dehydration lis
ted in the following list.
Mild to moderate dehydration:
• • • • • •
dry mouth crying with few or no tears fussy behavior in infants less than six we
t diapers per day in an infant (more than 4-6 hours without a wet diaper in an i
nfant under 6 months) did not urinate for 6-8 hours fontanelle child is flatter
than usual or somewhat sunken in an infant
Severe dehydration:
•
very dry mouth and thick (looks "sticky" inside)
• • • • • • • • • •
dry, wrinkled, or doughy skin (especially in the abdomen and upper arms and legs
) inactivity or decreased alertness appears weak or limp sunken eyes, sunken fon
tanelles in an infant excessive sleepiness or disorientation and rapid deep brea
thing more 6 to 8 hours without urinating in an infant more than 8 to 10 hours t
o eight hours without urinating in a child fast or weakened pulse
The following symptoms may indicate a more serious condition that Gastroenteriti
s, in which case you should immediately call the pediatrician:
• • • • • • • • • •
Vomiting as a jet in an infant, especially if less than three months. Vomiting i
n an infant after giving an oral electrolyte solution for close to 24 hours. Vom
iting starts again as soon as you try to resume normal diet. Vomiting starts aft
er a head injury. The vomiting is accompanied by fever (38? C rectal temperature
in infants less than 6 months or more than 38.3 to 38.8 • C in an older child).
Vomiting of bile, a greenish or yellowish liquid. The child's belly feels hard,
swollen and painful between vomiting episodes. The vomiting is accompanied by s
evere abdominal pain. The vomit looks like coffee grounds (blood mixed with stom
ach acid has a brown color similar to coffee grounds). You vomit blood.
Cramps IN CHILDREN
Your baby spends several hours each evening crying and crying you are beginning
to exhaust him so much that wants to get to mourn with him. What could be happen
ing? Though all newborns cry and get restless from time to time, when an infant
who is otherwise healthy cries for more than three hours each day, suffers from
a condition known as colic, which is completely normal and, eventually, just res
olved spontaneously. It has been estimated that up to 25% of all infants have co
lic. Usually begin between the third and sixth week of life and resolve spontane
ously when the baby is three months old. If a baby still has recurrent tears aft
er serving three months, you may suffer other health problems. To see if your ba
by has colic, you will want to first rule that may be crying for other medical r
easons. Here are some key points on the cramps:
•
•
•
•
Infants with colic have a normal sucking reflex and a good appetite, and everyth
ing else, are healthy and growing well. A sick baby may have symptoms similar to
those of colic, but not eat well or have a very strong sucking reflex. A Colick
y babies like to be caught and held.€Sick babies appear to be annoyed or uncomfo
rtable when they are caught and are difficult to console. Babies with colic may
drool or spit up occasionally, but if your baby vomits, and / or losing weight,
call your doctor. Vomiting repeatedly is not a symptom of colic. Colicky babies
typically have normal stools. If your baby is difficult to console and have diar
rhea or blood in the stool, call your doctor.
What causes colic?
Doctors are not sure what causes colic. Some authors have suggested that colic i
s caused by allergy to proteins in cow's milk (formula), but now doctors believe
that this type of allergy causes colic rarely, if at all causes. Babies fed wit
h breast milk may also have colic. However, in some cases changes in the mother'
s diet have been associated with remission of colic. Currently, doctors do not b
elieve that colic are caused by gas. Research suggests that it is rather the opp
osite, that is, more often colicky babies develop gas by swallowing too much air
while crying. There are some data indicating that colic occurs when there are p
roblems in the transit of food through the digestive system of infants, either b
ecause that is too fast or because it is too slow. Some doctors attribute colic
to baby's temperament. Some infants have a harder time than others to adapt to t
he outside world or the sleep-wake cycle. Many parents are worried that they mig
ht be doing something to cause colic in babies or not being good parents. But th
ere is no evidence that anxiety and / or personality of the parents may be a cau
sal factor for colic. Many doctors believe that another possible cause of colic
can be a gastroesophageal reflux disease diagnosed.
Treatment
There is no treatment, in isolation, have been shown to "cure" for colic. But th
ere are some things you can do when your baby has colic in making them more bear
able for the whole family. First, make sure the baby is not hungry. If not hungr
y, do not insist on continuing the feeding. Instead, try to console the baby. Do
not be afraid to pamper baby devoting attention. Instead, we will be showing yo
u respond to their needs. You can also try:
• • • • •
•
Pacing or rocking in a rocking chair with the baby in her arms, trying different
positions. Help burp more often during feedings. Put the baby stretched out fac
e down on her lap and gently rub her back. Put your baby in a rocker. It is poss
ible that the motion has a calming effect. Place the baby in a car seat in the r
ear of the car and give you a ride. The vibration and movement of the car often
soothes babies. Try to put music tapes, some babies respond positively to the so
und in addition to the movement.
Caring for a baby with colic can be extremely frustrating, so be sure to take ca
re of yourself. Do not blame the baby or blame you for the baby's continuous cry
ing, colic is not anyone's fault. Try to relax and take it easy, and remember th
at your baby will eventually overcome this stage when mature. Meanwhile, if you
need to disconnect from the infant's cries, do so. Perhaps your friends or famil
y will be happy to watch the baby when you need a break. If you can not directly
relate with the help of another person, nothing happens if you leave a baby alo
ne while in the crib to take a break before trying again to console him. If you
are not sure whether the baby crying due to colic or are a symptom of another il
lness, call your doctor.
MEDICAL HISTORY OF CHILDREN If your child falls ill or is injured and needs to g
o to ER, doctors, nurses and paramedics will have many questions to ask about yo
ur medical history. And though you know all the answers in a moment of calm, unt
il the most organized parent might not be able to remember the details of your c
hild's medical history in a stressful situation. So it is so important to keep a
comprehensive record of your child's medical information and have it always at
hand. In many cases, this information can help medical staff diagnose and make q
uick decisions in a medical emergency, when time is money. Read the following ca
tegories to learn more about the health of your child to develop a complete medi
cal history.€Keep a copy of the story in an accessible place in your home (for e
xample, the refrigerator door), one in each family car, another in his place of
work and workplace of your partner, and one in bag or purse for both. The kangar
oo of his son and the school or preschool where the child is also a copy should
be available, which should also include the name and telephone number of the chi
ld's pediatrician.
Allergies
List any known allergies your child has both prescription medications and those
who care can be purchased without a prescription. Allergic reactions to insect b
ites or stings and food allergies are also important. In addition, some children
may have allergies to latex. In many cases, the allergy information to medical
personnel to help discover the cause of problems such as seizures or breathing d
ifficulties.
Medicines
Some drugs do not mix because they interact with each other, so that the medical
and nursing staff need to know all medications (both prescription medications a
nd non-prescription) to take your child before administering any drug. Also need
to know the dose, administration schedule and when the child is medicated for t
he last time. You must provide this information, indicating when your child took
 the medication for the last time and took the exact dose.
Pre-existing diseases or disorders
The pre-existing diseases or disorders can have a big impact on the type of test
s or treatments administered in a medical emergency. If your child has any healt
h problems - from diabetes to epilepsy or asthma - emergency medical staff he sh
ould know. For additional protection, children with chronic illnesses or conditi
ons should carry a label or plaque hanging from a bracelet. This type of immedia
te notification can help doctors save the life of a child. If your child has spe
cial needs, you and your child's doctor can complete a form established by the A
merican Academy of Pediatrics (American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)) and the Ame
rican College of Emergency Physicians (American College of Emergency Physicians
(ACEP )) or by an agency of his country. You can find the forms http://www.aap.o
rg U.S. or http://www.acep.org, and may Irlo updated as necessary. Like any othe
r important information about the health of your child, you should keep a copy o
f the form in an easily accessible place in your home, one in each family car, a
nother in his place of work and workplace your partner, and one in the bag or pu
rse for both. Also, if your son on a journey, you must include another copy of t
he form in his luggage. It should also have a copy of the form to the child's pe
diatrician's office and nursing of their school or preschool. The form informati
on can also be entered in a database upgradeable to medical personnel can access
it in an emergency.
Hospitalization and surgery
The medical history should also include information on the dates your child has
been hospitalized and the types of business that has been submitted. This inform
ation can be useful for treatment following a medical emergency.
Vaccines
Keeping an updated record of the vaccines that have put her son is important. If
you need help to remember and collect all the information, staff pediatrician's
office can lend a hand. Be sure to include information about any reactions you
have had your child to a vaccine, such as seizures, high fever or extreme physic
al discomfort.
Height and weight
To calculate medication doses, can help a lot to know about how tall and how muc
h your child weighs. (Although you need to update this information periodically,
since kids grow so fast.) It is relatively easy to compile and write the medica
l history of your child. And that could mean winning critical minutes - at a tim
e when time is money!