Spotting the Sick Child

A Parent’s Guide to Common Illnesses

As a parent, recognising when your child is unwell can be challenging, especially when symptoms overlap across various illnesses. This guide is designed to help you identify common illnesses in children, understand what to do, and know when to seek medical help.

Understanding Common Childhood Illnesses

Children frequently catch illnesses due to their developing immune systems. Here are some of the most common conditions parents encounter:

1. The Common Cold

• Symptoms: Runny or stuffy nose, cough, mild fever, sneezing, sore throat.
• What to Do: Encourage rest, ensure hydration, and use saline nasal drops for congestion. Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage fever and discomfort.
• When to Seek Help: If symptoms persist for more than 10 days, worsen suddenly, or include a high fever (above 39°C).

2. Gastroenteritis (Stomach Bug)

• Symptoms: Diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever.
• What to Do: Prevent dehydration by giving small sips of oral rehydration solutions. Avoid giving sugary drinks or solid foods until symptoms improve.
• When to Seek Help: If your child shows signs of dehydration (dry mouth, sunken eyes, reduced urination), has bloody diarrhoea, or symptoms persist beyond a few days.

3. Ear Infections

• Symptoms: Ear pain, pulling at ears, irritability, difficulty hearing, fever.
• What to Do: Administer pain relief medication and monitor symptoms. Most ear infections resolve without antibiotics.
• When to Seek Help: If there is a high fever, fluid or pus draining from the ear, or if symptoms persist for more than two days.

4. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease

• Symptoms: Fever, sore throat, painful blisters on the hands, feet, and inside the mouth.
• What to Do: Encourage fluids and soft foods, and use over-the-counter pain relievers for comfort.
• When to Seek Help: If your child is unable to drink fluids or symptoms worsen significantly.

5. Chickenpox

• Symptoms: Itchy, blister-like rash, fever, fatigue.
• What to Do: Keep your child’s nails trimmed to prevent scratching, use calamine lotion or antihistamines for itch relief, and ensure rest.
• When to Seek Help: If the rash becomes infected (red, swollen, or pus-filled) or your child develops breathing difficulties.

Red Flags: When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Certain symptoms should never be ignored. Call emergency services or seek urgent care if your child experiences:

• Persistent high fever.
• Difficulty breathing or blue lips.
• Seizures or unresponsiveness.
• Severe dehydration (no urination for 12+ hours, lethargy).
• A rash that doesn’t fade under pressure (could indicate meningitis).

General Tips for Managing a Sick Child

• Rest and Comfort: Ensure your child gets plenty of rest and stays comfortable.
• Hydration: Keep them well-hydrated with water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear broths.
• Monitor Symptoms: Track fever, changes in behaviour, or worsening of symptoms.
• Avoid Overloading Medications: Use medications like paracetamol or ibuprofen only as directed, and avoid aspirin in children.

Where to Get Help

• Your GP: For non-urgent concerns or if symptoms persist.
• Pharmacist: They can offer advice and over-the-counter remedies for minor illnesses.
• NHS 111: For 24/7 advice on whether your child needs medical attention.
• Emergency Services (999): For severe or life-threatening symptoms.

Prevention Tips

While it’s impossible to avoid every illness, these measures can help reduce risks:

• Encourage regular hand washing.
• Ensure your child’s vaccinations are up to date.
• Promote a healthy diet and adequate sleep to strengthen immunity.

Final Thoughts

Being prepared and informed can make a significant difference when your child falls ill. While many childhood illnesses are mild and self-limiting, trust your instincts as a parent. If something feels wrong or symptoms don’t improve, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.

At Halo Medical Group, we’re here to support you and your family. Contact us for guidance or to schedule a consultation with one of our healthcare professionals. Together, we can ensure your child’s health and well-being.