Common Baby Illnesses and Ailments: What to Look For and How to Treat
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Raising a baby can be difficult enough, but it can be downright worrisome when they get sick. It’s hard to know what’s wrong and even harder to try and treat it. In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common baby illnesses and ailments, along with ways to spot them and how to treat them.
Fever
A fever is usually one of the first signs that your child is sick. It can be challenging to determine whether or not a baby has a fever, but there are some tell-tale signs.
Symptoms
If your baby feels warm to the touch, has flushed cheeks, or seems listless and tired, they may have a fever. You can take their temperature rectally with a digital thermometer to get an accurate reading. If your child does have a fever, it’s essential to monitor it closely. A low-grade fever (under 102 degrees Fahrenheit) generally doesn’t need to be treated and will go away on its own within a few days. However, if the fever is high (over 102 degrees Fahrenheit), lasts longer than three days, or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor.
Treatment
There are a few ways to help bring down a fever at home. You can give your child a lukewarm bath, dress them in light clothing, and make sure they stay hydrated. You can also give them acetaminophen or ibuprofen if they are over six months old and the fever is high. If you’re ever unsure whether your child’s fever warrants medical attention, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and call the doctor.
Colds and Flu
Colds and the flu are both viruses that primarily affect the respiratory system. They are both highly contagious, so your child will likely get them at some point. The common cold is usually milder than the flu and will go away on its own within a week or two. The flu, on the other hand, can be more severe and may require medical attention.
Symptoms and Treatment
Symptoms of a cold or the flu include a runny nose, fever, coughing, sneezing, and fatigue. If your child has a cold, you can help them feel more comfortable by having them blow their nose often, using a saline nasal spray to relieve congestion, and giving them plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. You can also give them over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help with fever and pain relief. If your child has the flu, it’s essential to see a doctor as soon as possible. The flu can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and infants. Treatment for the flu usually includes rest, plenty of fluids, and antiviral medication. Remember, colds and the flu are both highly contagious, so be sure to wash your hands often and avoid sharing cups or utensils with your child if they are sick.
Constipation
Constipation is a common issue in babies, especially those who are formula-fed. It occurs when there is difficulty passing stool, which can be painful for your child. Symptoms of constipation include hard, dry stools, decreased appetite, and irritability.
Treatment
There are a few things you can do to help relieve constipation at home. First, try giving your child more fluids to help soften their stool. You can also give them pureed fruits or vegetables and prune juice. If these home remedies don’t seem to be working, you can talk to your doctor about giving your baby constipation medicine.
These are just a few of the most common illnesses and ailments that affect babies. Of course, this is not an exhaustive list, so if you’re ever concerned about your child’s health, be sure to call the doctor. With some basic knowledge and a little bit of prevention, you can help keep your child healthy and happy.
*This article is based on personal suggestions and/or experiences and is for informational purposes only. This should not be used as professional advice. Please consult a professional where applicable.
