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Common Childhood Illnesses

Submitted by Nick on March 4, 2011

Common Childhood Illnesses

The immune system of a child is not as developed and strong as that of an adult. This is the reason why children are more vulnerable to common infections and illnesses. There are viruses, bacteria and other germs all around and if the immune system cannot fight them off, infection and diseases are likely to occur. Common childhood illnesses such as the common cold, cough and fever are some of the illnesses that usually occur during childhood. The level of hygiene and lifestyle also has an impact on an individual’s susceptibility to illness.

Children who tend to play in the mud and dirt for long periods of time may experience skin rashes and ear infections. Those who eat too many ice creams may fall prey to cough and sore throats.

It is common for parents to be worried about the prevalence of common childhood diseases.

However it must be kept in mind that children are bound to play and run around. They are also not mature enough to take care of themselves fully. Therefore such illnesses are bound to occur and are part of childhood.

But it is helpful for parents to stay educated about these conditions so that the appropriate steps can be taken to cure them. Parents should be aware about common childhood illnesses and the signs and symptoms which are likely to occur. Medical experts also note that some illnesses even help to make the immune system of a child stronger.

Given below is a description of some of the most common childhood illnesses.

The common cold is perhaps the most common childhood illness. Due to a weaker immune system and allergies to common agents such as dust and pollen, children fall prey to the cold very often. A cold usually lasts for about a week. Cough and nasal discharge are common symptoms of a cold. It is important to increase the fluid intake of the child when a cold occurs. Flu is caused by the influenza virus. Most children lose their appetite when they get the flu. Symptoms such as fever, body ache and tiredness may occur and helps to use a thermometer to monitor the temperature now and then. Since flu is caused by a viral infection, medications cannot cure it. It is advisable, however, to consult a doctor so that medication for symptomatic relief can be given to the child. Common diseases in children also include chicken pox, another viral infection which occurs as an itchy, red rash on the body. It is contagious and can spread through contact with infected mucus droplets during sneezing and coughing. Children must be prevented from scratching the rash as it could aggravate the condition.

Another common illness in children is tonsillitis which is an infection of the tonsils. Throat pain, difficulty in swallowing and fever are some of the common symptoms of tonsillitis. Skin rashes are extremely common in children and can occur due to various factors. Some common childhood rashes include hives, ringworm, contact dermatitis and eczema.