Posted by admin on January 27th, 2010
If your child has become uncharacteristically irritable with a high temperature and a runny nose then they may be fighting off an infection with the common cold.
A cold is a mild illness caused by one of over 200 different viruses. The virus spreads as your child breathes in airborne droplets produced when people infected with a cold virus cough, sneeze or talk, and by contact with infected surfaces (e.g. on hands, used tissues etc).
In the UK, colds are more common during the winter and adults generally catch up to 4 colds a year. However, because infants have little resistance to infections, they can be unfortunate enough to have as many as 12 colds a year.
How will I know if my child has a cold?
A cold can cause a runny or blocked nose, sore throat and a headache. Infants may be irritable and a blocked nose can make feeding difficult. In some cases, a cough and a mild temperature occur. Read more »
Posted by admin on January 27th, 2010
Colic is very common in newborn babies, up to 20% of infants suffer, and it may continue for the first three to four months after birth. Both breast-fed and bottle-fed infants get colic and it affects boys and girls equally, but there is some evidence that it is more common in infants whose mothers smoke. Although it is often distressing for parents, colic does not harm your baby in the long term and babies with colic should continue to feed and gain weight normally.
The main problem with colic is the stress and anxiety it causes. Parents and other family members often find it difficult to cope with the constant crying.
How will I know if my baby has colic?
Colic usually begins during the first weeks of life and resolves within 3 to 4 months. The scientific definition of colic is crying for at least 3 hours a day, at least 3 days a week, for at least 3 weeks durationIt is often difficult to work out whether your baby is ill or is simply hungry, cold, tired or in need of a nappy change. The most common colic symptom is a high-pitched inconsolable crying which typically occurs in the late afternoon or evening, often repeated at a similar time each day. You may also notice some or all of the following:
Read more »
Posted by admin on January 27th, 2010
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the thin membrane that covers the eyeballs and the inside of the eyelids. The most common causes are bacterial or viral infections. Infective conjunctivitis can occur at any age, however infants are more susceptible.
How will I know if my child has infective conjunctivitis?
Infectious conjunctivitis:
- usually starts in one eye and spreads to the other
- causes sore red eyes and a discharge
- may cause inflammation of the eyelids with redness, irritation, drying and flaking of the skin around the eyes.
A thick yellow or white discharge is usually due to bacterial conjunctivitis. The eyelashes may stick together, making it difficult for your child to open their eyes. A watery discharge is common with viral conjunctivitis. Viral conjunctivitis may also be associated with swollen glands and cold symptoms. Read more »
Posted by admin on January 27th, 2010
Senokot syrup is suitable for use in children from 6 years, and senokot tablets are suitable from 12 years. But babies can suffer too so we have pulled together some helpful information to show you ways of preventing easing the pain for your baby.
What is constipation?
Constipation is a commonly encountered problem in children. It can be due to the same reasons as in adults – poor diet, low fluid intake, illness or medication. But in children there can also be some emotional triggers, for example starting potty training or starting school for the first time. The main thing is not to worry and sort the problem out as quickly as possible.
How will I know if my child has constipation?
New born Babies
The frequency of bowel movements of young babies (up to six months) varies a great deal. Breast-fed babies rarely suffer from constipation because breast milk is easily digestible. Your baby’s large intestine has the right bacteria to break down some of the harder-to-process proteins in milk, making the stools soft and easy to pass. Breast-fed babies also have higher levels of the hormone motiline, which stimulates bowel movement. Read more »
