Three Common Childhood Illnesses and How to Manage Them

We all get sick at some point in our lives, but children are often more susceptible to common illnesses than people of other ages. This is usually because they are building their immune systems. They are often exposed to bacteria and viruses in their daily lives but are unable to fight off as many illnesses, making them sick. Having an idea of what common illnesses children get and how you can combat them is important as a parent. Here are the three most common childhood illnesses:

1. Colds

Colds are one of the most common illnesses in children. They could get one as often 6 to 8 times a year. An underdeveloped immune system is largely to blame for this problem. It takes time for a child’s body to identify disease-causing bacteria and viruses and develop antibodies for them. A runny nose may not be a problem and is likely to run its course, but your child’s pediatrician may suggest medications if he or she suspects bacterial sinusitis or other infections. Having an immune building vitamin or probiotic is something that will help build weak immune systems.

Another reason children get so many colds is because they are often curious and reckless. They want to explore the world around them which brings them in contact with all sorts of disease-causing bacteria. While their curiosity is a good thing, and you can only do so much to curb their recklessness, you can help them build a resilient immune system. Little Spoon’s Sniffle Shield Boosters are packed with zinc, vitamins C & E, prebiotics, and elderberry. These boosters are designed to build strong immune systems in kids and block germ-causing bacteria from making little ones sick. You can add them to organic baby food or incorporate it in any baby food diet.

2. Diarrhea

Diarrhea or watery stools is not a disease; rather, it is a symptom of another problem. Diarrhea can be caused by a variety of things, including viruses like rotavirus or norovirus, bacteria such as salmonella, and even parasites like giardia. Diarrhea caused by viruses often also accompanies symptoms like loose stool, stomachaches, fevers, etc. Medications can sometimes cause diarrhea as well. Plus, intolerance to certain types of foods like wheat and milk can cause diarrhea.

Most of the time diarrhea is mild and goes away in a few days. But contact your pediatrician if your child has lost a lot of fluid or if they are also experiencing nausea and vomiting, stomach cramping, or bloody stool. Probiotics like lactobacillus rhamnosus DSM 6594 or foods that contain healthy bacteria like unsweetened yogurt have live cultures that can promote healthy gut bacteria. You can also try Little Spoon Gut Feeling Booster to promote a healthy gut and foster good bacteria.

3. Pinworms

Pinworms are common in children. They live in the lower intestine and come out in the night to lay eggs on the skin around the anus, causing children to scratch their bottoms. Children with a threadworm or pinworm infestation often experience anal itching, restlessness during sleep, and abdominal pain. In extreme cases, it could lead to anemia and diarrhea.

Regular deworming reduces pinworm infection. It is also important to change your child’s undergarments/nappies often and cut their nails as frequently as possible. They must be fed properly cooked food, and veggies and fruits must be washed thoroughly. Clean your child’s toilet seat well can also help to prevent this issue.

Although it is impossible to protect your child from every illness, having an idea of some of the most common ones can help you to minimize their chances of getting sick and deal with any illness quickly.