Common Childhood Illnesses

When we are growing up, we are susceptible to infections and diseases as our immune systems aren't fully developed. A few ailments that affect most growing children are cold, cough, fever, etc. Viruses are present all around us. Adults don't get infected by them as they have a fully developed immune system, children on the other hand are susceptible to viral infections. Lifestyle and hygiene also play a major role when it comes to common diseases. If you have kids who play out in the dirt all day they are likely to get ear infections and rashes. Children are also most likely to get a sore throat because of frequent indulgence in ice creams and cold sodas. For most kids nowadays junk food is part of the staple diet, this leaves them vulnerable to digestive problems and tummy aches.

Worrying about the health of a child is natural, so, it is advisable to have information on some of the most common illnesses. Also, look up what you can do to prevent them and what are the treatment options for these common childhood diseases. According to health care professionals, some of these illnesses are part of the growing up process and actually help the child develop a stronger immune system. If you were to make a chart, here are a few illnesses you should include.

Flu
One of the most common illness is the flu caused by the influenza virus, it is one of the most prominent reasons behind lot of kids missing school. Loss of appetite is one of the most easiest flu symptoms to spot in a child. Having a thermometer around the house will also help you detect the body temperature of your child to determine the onset of flu. If you child has flu call your doctor and get a flu shot, this is very effective.

Cold
A child will frequently contract common cold at least once in 45-60 days period, this is mostly because of the weak immune system and allergies to dust and pollen. Regular cold will last for around 5-7 days and with a little care and proper medication can be dealt with effectively. Runny nose and cough are some of the common symptoms of cold. Children will also experience body ache when they contract cold. Saline nose drops and other medication prescribed by the physician can help relieve the irritable symptoms. Also, increase the intake of fluid if your child has cold.

Fifth Disease
The fifth disease is a form of rash that can be seen on a child and is caused by the human parvovirus. A child will get red rash all over the body due to this virus, most significantly on the cheeks and extremities. This condition doesn't bring about any other physical symptoms like fever or cold. This is not a serious disease and will pass within a week or two. Drinking lots of fluids will help the child and also contact you family doctor for medication. Hygiene is one of the other things that you need to pay special attention to when your child has this condition.

Scarlet Fever
It is a red rash which appears with strep throat which is caused by bacterial infection. The rash usually starts on the torso from the chest and quickly spreads to the abdomen and other parts of the body. Kids with scarlet fever will also experience rise in their body temperature. They will have trouble swallowing and their tongue will have visible white spots and bright red taste buds a symptom known as 'Strawberry Tongue'. Scarlet fever can be treated with antibiotics and it is imperative that you contact a physician if you notice any indicating symptoms.

Illness is part and parcel of growing up, in fact some even say that they are important in strengthening our immune system as we are growing up. As the saying goes 'that which does not kill us makes us stronger', illness that affect us make us strong. Here are some of the other common illnesses

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Stomach Ulcers
• Chickenpox
• Whooping Cough
• Food Poisoning
• Lactose Intolerance
• Sinus Infections
• Heartburn
• Acne
• Dandruff
• Nail Fungus
• Scabies
• Skin Rash

Some of the common childhood cancers are blood cancers, brain cancer and central nervous system cancer. Other common illnesses like asthma, ear infections, cough are quite prevalent and if timely measures are taken can be easily treated.