Minor illness in children

Children are more susceptible to many minor ailments and illnesses than adults so it is important for parents to know how to deal with them. Knowing what to do when your child is unwell can save a lot of worry and also perhaps an unnecessary call to the doctor. Your community pharmacist will be happy to offer help and advice on how to treat minor illnesses and when to consult the doctor.

Coughs and Colds

There is no cure for the common cold so all you can do is make the child more comfortable. Paracetamol suspension (Calpol etc) can reduce aches, pains and fever and a soothing linctus can ease any cough. A visit to the doctors is not usually necessary unless symptoms are severe or prolonged.

Stomach Upsets and Diarrhoea

A child's stomach can easily become upset by many physical disorders, infections or emotional upheavals. The main aim of treatment is to avoid dehydration by giving plenty of clear fluids to drink. Diorolyte or a similar rehydration sachet can be very useful in these situations. Avoid milk or milky drinks and do not be concerned about giving them food to eat until they feel better. Vomiting usually stops after a few hours so if it continues for more than a day consult your doctor. Diarrhoea in very small babies requires careful attention. Babies usually have loose motions for their first six months on a mostly liquid diet. Sudden bouts of unusually watery diarrhoea should be treated by taking the baby off solids and feeding Diorolyte or a similar rehydration product. Breast feeding should be continued. If the symptoms continued for more than 24 hours or are accompanied by vomiting or weakness consult your doctor.

Insect Bites and Stings

Most bites and stings can be relieved with aqueous calamine cream. If necessary an antihistamine syrup or tablets can be used. Your pharmacist can advise on the best treatment for your child.

Burns

Put the area under cold running water if possible and keep it there until the pain subsides. If the skin is unbroken but blistered apply a loose dry dressing. Do not use antiseptics or things like butter as they do not help. Don't be tempted to burst blisters as this can let in infection. If the burn is large or the skin broken consult your doctor as soon as possible.

Chicken Pox

On the first day a rash appears as small red patches about 3-4mm across. Within a few hours of these developing, small blisters appear in the centre of the patches. During the next three or four days further patches will appear and the earlier ones will turn crusty and fall off. Calamine based creams and lotions will reduce the itching and cool baths may also help. A visit to the doctor is not usually necessary unless the spots become infected. Children may return to school as soon as the last crusts have dropped off.

Minor Cuts and Grazes

Wash the wound thoroughly with water and a little soap. Antiseptics do not help and may cause sensitivity reactions. To stop bleeding press on the wound with a clean dry dressing or handkerchief for about five minutes. Apply a plaster to the area if necessary. Deep or large cuts should be seen by a doctor or nurse particularly if they happen outdoors.

Sunburn

Children are particularly susceptible to sunburn and great care should be taken to protect them from the harmful effects of the sun. Sunblocks, hats and tee shirts should all be used, even in the back garden at home. If your child does get burnt the discomfort can be eased by aqueous calamine cream and paracetamol. Severe sunburn should be treated by the doctor particularly in small babies.

Brad Cheek 1998