Childhood illnesses
Children get sick more often than adults because their immune systems are still developing. Most childhood illnesses are harmless and go away on their own, but it can be difficult for parents to know when it is necessary to see a doctor. Common childhood illnesses include colds, ear infections, stomach infections, rashes, and childhood diseases such as chickenpox and hand, foot, and mouth disease.
Video consultation with a doctor can be especially useful when your child is sick, as you avoid having to go to the doctor’s office and risk infecting others.
Common childhood illnesses
- Colds and upper respiratory tract infections
- Ear infection with pain and fever
- Stomach infection with diarrhea and vomiting
- Rashes such as chickenpox, fifth disease, and roseola
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease
- Croup with barking cough
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
When should you contact a doctor?
- The child has a high fever that lasts more than three days
- The child is lethargic, unusually tired, or difficult to wake up
- The child refuses to drink or shows signs of dehydration
- The child has difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Rash that does not fade when pressed
- You are concerned about your child’s condition
Treatment
Treatment varies depending on the illness. Many childhood illnesses are treated with rest, plenty of fluids, and fever-reducing agents. Bacterial infections such as ear infections may require antibiotics. A doctor at Eyr can assess the child’s symptoms via video, advise on home treatment, and possibly prescribe necessary medication or refer further if needed.
