Categories » ‘Parent Tips’
December 14th, 2009 by Editor
Head lice are tiny greyish insects that invade the surface of the head clinging to the hair shaft. This epidemic is a common problem amongst children. Head lice are wingless parasitic insects that feed on the blood of their host. The eggs laid by the female head lice after mating are firmly attached to the scalp hair. Approximately a week after the eggs have been laid, they begin to hatch into offspring which are commonly referred to as nits.
What are Head Lice and Nits
Nits are lice eggs that appear as tiny yellow dots on the surface of the hair. The eggs begin to hatch at the hair shaft close to the scalp 1 to 2 weeks after it has being laid. Once hatched the lice appear as white or clear particles. These particles have a close resemblance to dandruff. The lice mature into an adult approximately 2 weeks after hatching. The adult lice which is referred to as a nymph, is the size of a sesame seed. These lice can lay up to 3 to 8 eggs daily.
Symptoms of Head Lice and Nits in children
*Itching of the scalp is commonly experienced. This irritation often occurs due to the biting of the scalp by the lice.
*In most cases a red rash may occur at the nape of the neck
*Inflammation may develop on the scalp
*Tiny red pimples or sores may also occur on the scalp
*A sensation of something moving in the hair may indicate an invasion of head lice and nits
*Excessive scratching can lead to the development of bacterial infection
What are the causes of Head Lice and Nits
*Head lice and nits are commonly transferred to from an infected individual to another.
*The contact of this contagious epidemic can occur with direct or close head to head contact such as a hug
*Poor hygiene can spread and worsen the epidemic but cannot be entirely responsible for the direct cause of the epidemic
Treatment and management of Head Lice & Nits
*The effective use of insecticides is commonly available in the form of a lotion, mousse or shampoo. Malathion, Permethrin and Phenothrin are the three common ingredients used in these topical treatments. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to achieve effective results. Treatment should be repeated after 7 days as lice eggs are difficult to kill.
*The use of silicone based products such as Hedrin lotion, Itax lotion or NYDA pump spray are also effective forms of topical preparations. Silicone products kill the nits and lice by physically coating the surface and smothering them. It is important not to use a hair drier as the heat may alter the efficacy of the topical preparation.
*Combing wet hair with a fine tooth comb is a non-chemical method that is effective. Hair should be combed for a period of 30 minutes every 3rd to 4th day for a period of 2 weeks.
*Medicated shampoos may also be prescribed as an alternative treatment method. However it is advised that a child under 2 years of age should avoid the use of medicated shampoo and rather opt for the removal of nits and lice by hand
*Bed linen and stuffed toys should be washed regularly. Since nits and lice can survive without a host for 2 days it is advised to keep washed stuffed toys away until the epidemic has been treated.
December 11th, 2009 by Editor
Childhood Eczema-symptoms and treatment management
Eczema is an itchy inflammation of the skin that may be accompanied with asthma or hay fever. This condition is characterised by red, irritated skin occasional accompanied by small, fluid filled lesions. These lesions usually ooze out when it comes into contact with moisture. Eczema involves various skin diseases with the common form been Atopic Dermatitis affecting children of any age and appearing at any time. Although children usually outgrow eczema the vast majority will experience dry, irritated skin.
Children suffering with eczema have an inflammatory response to irritated substances such as pollen, mould, dust, animal dander and certain foods. The skin becomes red and irritated with the development of inflammation resulting in itching. Eczema is not an allergy but allergies such as hay fever can trigger the condition. This is a chronic condition that is not contagious.
Symptoms of eczema in children:
*Eczema usually appears in red, itchy and dry patches with small bumps
*The rash can develop into red open crusted lesion
*Eczema often occurs on the cheeks, forehead and scalp. It can spread to extremities of the arms, legs and behind the knees
*Chronic scratching causes the skin to become thick, scaly and appear leathery
*A raw sensation is often experienced due to scratching
Causes of childhood eczema:
*A child predisposed to a family history of allergies may have an increased risk of developing eczema
*Rough textured material such as wool can cause the skin to itch resulting in an allergic reaction. This reaction may develop into eczema.
*Environmental factors such as change temperature, high levels of humidity and dry dusty areas contribute to the development of eczema
*Fragrant soaps, detergents, certain foods, animal saliva, air conditioning can cause the development of eczema
*Eczema commonly appears at times of stress and emotional disorders. This causes the condition to aggravate and flare-up
*Upper respiratory infections, asthma and hay fever can often trigger eczema
*Long baths can dry the skin resulting in the aggravation of eczema
Prevention of eczema in children:
*Decrease the severity and frequency of flare-ups by avoiding environmental factors such as pollen and moulds that can trigger eczema
*Avoid a sudden change in temperature and humidity
*Reduce stress levels with calming and relaxing activities to decrease the frequency of eczema
*Avoid the use of rough textured materials to prevent an aggravation and development of eczema
*Fragrant soaps, detergents and other scented substances should be avoided
*Avoid the intake of food that can trigger eczema
Treating childhood eczema:
*A daily application of a cream or lotion can help maintain a moisture level in the skin preventing the skin from drying out.
*The ideal time to moisturise is immediately after bathing as the moisture from the bath is locked in.
*Cold compress applied to the skin can relieve itchiness
*Medication such as corticosteroid cream or an ointment is prescribed by a qualified medical doctor to help reduce inflammation
*Topical or oral antibiotics are prescribed if the eczema is recurrently occurring
*Living environment should be kept clean of dust
*Avoid the use of harsh scented soaps and detergents
*Identify and try to avoid the triggers that can cause eczema
December 8th, 2009 by Editor
Conjunctivitis –Pink eyes in children- Causes, Prevention, Treatment
Conjunctivitis is a contagious condition commonly referred to as pink eyes. Pink eyes or conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the surface membrane that forms a covering over eye and eyelid. Inflammation of the eye area is usually caused by a viral or bacterial infection or an allergic reaction. Tiny blood vessels dilate in response to the inflammation resulting in eye appearing red or pink in colour.
Symptoms commonly experienced with conjunctivitis:
*Redness of the eyelid can occur in one or both eyes
*A gritty or foreign body sensation is usually experienced under the eyelid area. Avoid rubbing the eyes as this can aggravate and worsen the condition
*Pain and soreness accompanied with itching in one or both eyes is commonly experienced with conjunctivitis
*A white -yellow substance is usually discharged from the ducts of the eye forming a crust. The crust often covers the eye making it difficult to open the eyes especially during the morning.
*The eyes can develop sensitivity to light creating discomfort
*Swelling of the eyelids is a common complaint experienced with conjunctivitis
*Burning and tearing sensations are common symptoms experienced
Causes associated with conjunctivitis:
*Viruses such as adenovirus associated with colds and flu, ear infections and sinuses can cause conjunctivitis in one or both the eyes. Conjunctivitis caused by a viral infection produces a watery discharge
*Staphyloccocal and streptococcal bacteria are also responsible for the infection of the eye area. Bacterial conjunctivitis or pink eyes produces thick yellowish discharge associated with recurrent eye infection or a sore throat. This type of infection is common in children
*Allergies can contribute to conjunctivitis affecting both the eyes. The immune system produces antibodies to fight foreign material such as smoke, pollen or other allergens invading the body.
*Individuals with long term use of contact lens are at a high risk of contacting conjunctivitis or pink eyes
*Airborne irritants in the environment or a splash of foreign liquid in the eye can lead to the development conjunctivitis
*Individuals diagnosed with atopic dermatitis are prone in contacting conjunctivitis
*A child can be infected with conjunctivitis if he or she is in direct contact with an infected individual. This infection can spread through the use of contaminated water food or eating utensils. The symptoms of conjunctivitis can occur within a few days of the infection lasting for 7-14 days.
Treating conjunctivitis:
*Topical medication such as eye drops or ointment is usually prescribed as an effective remedy in the treatment of conjunctivitis. The condition often clears up within 1-2 days.
*The prescribed course should be taken to avoid a reoccurrence of the infection
*Avoid the use of eye make-up during the infection to prevent the condition worsening
*To decrease swelling and discomfort soothe the eye area with a lukewarm ice pack
*Avoid rubbing to prevent further agitation of the eye.
Preventing the infection of conjunctivitis
*Hands should be properly sterilised as this would prevent or decrease the occurrence of conjunctivitis
*During illnesses such as colds and flu the bed linen should be changed regularly
*Discard used eye make-up that can be contaminated with conjunctivitis
*Avoid close contact with individuals infected with conjunctivitis
December 2nd, 2009 by Editor
Tonsillitis in children – symptoms, causes and treatment
Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils which are the fleshy areas located on either side of the back region of the throat. The infection occurs due to the invasion of bacteria or a virus in the body resulting in the tonsils becoming swollen and painful. Tonsillitis is a common and contagious illness experienced by children of all ages.
Symptoms of tonsillitis in children include:
*Inflammation and redness of the tonsils that often leads to a sore throat
*Swallowing of food becomes painful and difficult due the swollen tonsils
*White patches may occur on the surface of the tonsil area
*Tonsillitis can cause the lymph nodes (glands located in the jaw and neck area) to become tender and enlarged
*Fevers, chills and headaches can occur
*Laryngitis, an illness that causes a loss in voice can develop with tonsillitis
Causes of childhood tonsillitis:
Tonsils trap foreign materials invading the body through the mouth and nose. These foreign materials include bacteria and viruses. The invasion results in a mild infection of the tonsils leading to tonsillitis. If this condition is left untreated, the swollen tonsils can affect normal breathing. An accumulation of pus between the tonsils and surrounding tissue can lead to the development of an abscess. The invasion of streptococcal bacteria in the body can lead to a throat infection which may develop into tonsillitis. This complication may lead to skin and nervous system disorders, kidney infections and Rheumatic fever.
Prevention of childhood tonsillitis:
*Frequent hand washing is essential to prevent infections
*Avoid close contact with individuals suffering with a recent illness
*Increase the consumption of fluids and avoid the sharing of drinking and eating equipment to prevent the spread of an infection.
*Throat Lozengers help to stimulate the production of saliva cleansing the throat and decreasing the occurrence of an infection
*Irritants such as smoke inhalation and other pollutants should be avoided to prevent the development a sore throat
Treating tonsillitis in children:
*Tonsillitis caused by a virus is usually treated with self care. This treatment includes: -The consumption of warm fluids that help to soothe the throat
- Frequent gargling of the mouth and throat area with warm salt water has an antibacterial effect preventing further complications from developing
-Medication can be taken to reduce pain and fever
-The combination of honey and lemon is effective in the treatment of tonsillitis. The honey coats and soothes the throat whilst the lemon decreases the production of mucus.
-minimise talking as this can lead to more throat infections and temporary loss of the voice.
-Children should avoid close contact with each other as tonsillitis is a common condition amongst children of school age as viruses and bacteria can easily spread.
*Tonsillitis caused by a bacterial infection can be treated with a course of antibiotics. It is essential to finish the prescribed dosage to prevent the reoccurrence of the infection. In rare cases steroid medication is given to reduce the swelling of the tonsils
If conventional treatment and remedies render unsuccessful tonsillectomy (surgical procedure remove the tonsils) may be recommended.
November 28th, 2009 by Editor
Ear infection in children –causes, symptoms and treatment
An ear infection is an infection of the middle ear located behind the ear drum and is usually associated with a virus. Also referred to as Otitis Media ear infections are not a contagious illness. This infection is a common illness experienced in childhood as the Eustachian tube situated in the middle ear is shorter and narrower than an adult. Most ear infections tend to resolve within a few days without any treatment. Although an ear infection is not a severe illness it does pose discomfort to your child.
Symptoms of childhood ear infection:
*Due to the accumulation of fluid developing in the middle ear your child usually experiences pain, ear ache and difficulty in hearing.
*Your child may experience a fever due to the infection of the virus.
*Fevers may develop in the body as a response to the infection
*Children may tug or interfere with the ear as an indication of an ear ache
*Due to the pain commonly experienced during an ear infection your child may have trouble sleeping resulting in irritability or crying more than usual
*An upper respiratory infection can also develop
Causes of ear infections in children:
Ear infections are commonly caused by a viral illness such as the cold. The immune system in children is not completely developed resulting in frequent viral illness and an increased occurrence of ear infections. Inflammation of the ear lining occurs resulting in fluid build-up. This blockage causes fever and pain. Recurrent ear infections can result in short-term or long term hearing loss due to fluid build-up in the ear. The pressure of the fluid build-up can damage the ear drum by causing it to erupt. Blood and pus usually oozes out of the ear releasing the pressure and pain experienced. The ear drum can usually repair and reverse the damage caused by the infection. Children at a crèche or other learning institutes are at a greater risk in developing ear infections as the virus tend to spread between children. Bottle fed babies are prone to developing ear infections due to lying position during a feeding. Children with allergies that are triggered during the spring seasons are more susceptible in experiencing ear infections.
Preventing the occurrence of ear infections:
*The use of allergy medication can decrease the occurrence of an ear infection
*Breast feeding may be a better option to bottle feeding as the antibodies in breast milk increases the child’s immunity providing protection against illness and infections.
*If a child is bottle fed avoid propping the bottle in the baby’s mouth when lying down,
*Children should avoid contact with other children experiencing viral infections
*Avoid exposure to irritants that can trigger an allergy attack which can lead to illnesses. Use allergy medication to reduce the occurrence of an attack
*Immunisation can help prevent and reduce the occurrence of ear infections
*Do not share food or eating utensils with individuals experiencing colds or any other illness.
Treatment of childhood ear infection
*If fluid build-up does not clear within 72 hours antibiotics are usually prescribed. *Fluid can be drained relieving pressure against the ear drum.
*Ear drops and pain medication helps to relieve and numb the pain commonly experienced
November 23rd, 2009 by Editor
Psoriasis in children
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic, non-infectious disease of the skin that manifests itself in the early years. This condition is identified by red dry patches with silvery white scales and sores with bleeding spots. These lesions can occur anywhere on the body but is mostly common in areas such as the scalp, elbows, knees and nails. Psoriasis is a hereditary disease which is not contagious and is associated with occasional joint pains and swelling.
Where does psoriasis occur?
Psoriasis occurs in the epidermis [upper layer of the skin]. This layer consists of living cells that divide and migrate in an upward direction to form a tough layer called the ‘horny layer’. The layer functions in the protection to the underlying structures. The process of the ‘horny layer’ formation occurs within 30 days but in the condition of psoriasis the process is shorten to about 4-7 days.
Due to the rapid cell regeneration, the cells that reach the surface of the skin begin to accumulate. This results in the development of scales in the skin, representing a thick ‘horny layer’. The skin under the ‘horny layer’ appears to be red, due to the increase in blood supply required to sustain the rapid cell growth.
What are the causes of psoriasis in children?
Psoriasis varies in the levels of severity from the trivial to the more life threatening cases with many causes associated with this condition:
*Trauma to the skin such as a surgical scar or scratch can cause psoriasis to develop in the area. This occurrence is known as koebner phenomenon.
*Infection caused by the streptoccal bacteria may cause psoriasis
*Drugs such as beta blockers, lithium and antimalarias can worsen psoriasis.
*Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, tension and worry can exacerbate psoriasis.
*Alcohol may be an aggravating factor in the condition of psoriasis
Symptoms of psoriasis in children
The basic cause of psoriasis is directed towards the relief of symptoms. These symptoms include:
*The scaling of the skin due to the rapid growth rate of cell regeneration
*Thickening of the skin occurs due to the accumulation of skin cells
*The skin appears red due to the dilation of capillaries underlying the skin
What treatment can help in the management of psoriasis in children?
Psoriasis should be viewed as a chronic illness much like diabetes which can be controlled but not cured. However relief can be provided for the sufferer in the following ways:
*Salt water helps to alleviate the discomfort of psoriasis
*Exposure to sunlight has a beneficial effect as in most case psoriasis tends to improve
*Group therapy helps the psoriasis sufferer develop confidence and hope as they have the opportunity to discuss their condition with other sufferers.
*Symptoms are improved when vitamin D, zinc or linoleic acid is increased in the dietary intake
*Fish oils suppresses substance such as leukotrienes that trigger inflammation
* Topical medications such as calcipotriol, salyclic acid, dithranol and corticosteroids remove excess scales from the skin. These preparations must be used under supervision as side effects are common.
* Crude coal tar ointment is the most effective remedy as it slows down the growth rate of the epidermis [upper layer of skin cells]. This ointment must be used at night to prevent sunburn
* Oral systemic medication such as etretinate, methotrexate, hydroxyurea and cyulosporin are used for the severe cases of psoriasis. The side effects of these medication includes: dryness of the lips, liver and kidney damage and darkening of the skin
*PUVA inhibits cell regeneration preventing the thickening of the skin from forming
Psoriasis that is life threatening or unresponsive to topical treatment may require systemic treatment. Benefits must be weighed against the side-effects of these therapies. The use of toxic drugs is used by the justification of their ability to transform a childs life from severely restricted to leading an almost normal life.
November 18th, 2009 by Editor
The process of wean baby completely off breast milk can take up to a period of approximately 2 weeks. Individual circumstances and needs will determine the exact time period taken to wean baby off breast milk. Weaning baby is part of the natural breast feeding experience. It is much easier to wean baby during the infancy years than toddler years. The quality of breast milk reduces as the baby grows resulting in the decrease in nutritional value of the milk. The benefit of breast feeding decreases resulting in the breast becoming more of a pacifier or a soother rather than a food source.
Guidelines on wean baby off breast milk
*Considering the baby’s age and the reason for wean baby off breast milk, you as a parent need to decide the time period to under take this task. Once the decision is made it is important to adhere to it both mentally and emotionally
*Plan a healthy meal menu that is balanced and incorporates as many vitamins, minerals, proteins and carbohydrates. This will increase the food intake of your child and reduce the quantity of breast milk consumption.
*To encourage the consumption of solid meals try to eat with your child and make mouthing sounds such as yummy or ‘hmmm’. This will entice your child psychologically to eat the variety of food presented to him/her.
*It is essential to stick to your decision although at times it may prove difficult. This would prevent you and your child from reverting back to breast feeds.
*At the age of 2 your toddler is able to comprehend and verbally communicate adequately. You can use this communication skill to your advantage by explaining to your child that he/she is big and is ready to do big kids stuff, and breast milk is best left for little babies. It is important to also stress that you are not taking the breast away but merely making space for much tastier and yummy big kid’s food. This prevents the child developing psychological and emotional issues such as abandonment and separation anxiety
*Your child should consume a meal every 2 hours as he/she needs energy to maintain his/her active lifestyle. Snacking on in- between meals such as fruit, juice, yoghurt or nuts will also help to maintain energy levels.
*Reduce breast feeding gradually by replacing each feed with a solid meal. Do not stop all together. Start to reduce day time feeds first and gradually reduce night feeds.
*Before bedtime ensure that your child has consumed a good meal as a child with a full tummy will have a good night sleep with fewer awakenings during the night.
*During night awakenings you can offer warm milk, Milo, or Nes-quick instead of breast milk. This will allow your child to relax and remain content with her/his night time feed. It is essential to offer water after the milk beverage as to avoid the development of cavities in the long term that can occur with milk residue in the mouth. Milk beverages and water can be offered in a feeding cup as your child finds the sucking action soothing and comforting.
November 11th, 2009 by Editor
Dehydration in children- symptoms and treatment
Dehydration is a condition that occurs when loss of fluid in the body is greater than fluid intake. This can often interfere with the proper functioning of the body. Dehydration usually occurs in cases such as vomiting, extreme sweating, exercise, fever, diarrhoea and inadequate intake of fluids.
Symptoms of dehydration:
*Children often become sleepy or tired due to a decrease in energy levels.
*The passing of urine may be less frequent. The urine may resemble the colour of dark yellow to amber. In infants less than 6 diapers indicates dehydration.
*Children may have a dry, sticky mouth due to thirst
*A moderate bout of diarrhoea can have an onset of dehydration
*Little or no tears when crying and a lack of sweating are also indications of dehydration
*Muscle weakness, headaches, dizziness are also some of the symptoms your child may experience.
*If your child has vomited for more than 8 hours and is unable to keep down fluids, he or she can eventually become dehydrated.
*In severe cases of dehydration your child can experience irritability accompanied by fussing and a lack of sleep. Blood pressure can increase leading to a rapid heart beat, fever, delirium, and unconsciousness.
*The skin and mouth may appear dry.
*Dryness of the nasal passages can occur.
Treatment of dehydration in children
*The common and most effective method is using oral rehydration solution in children and infants who have suffered from bouts of vomiting, fever and diarrhoea.
* An oral rehydrate solution contains ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon bicarbonate soda, 3 tablespoon sugar and 1litre of water. The water and salt content helps to replenish fluids lost as well as balance the electrolytes in the body. The water used in the rehydrate solution should be purified water or it should be boiled and cooled.
*The measurement of the ingredients used in the rehydrate should be accurate to prevent the condition from worsening.
*Consumption of fluids is most effective if kept at room temperature.
*The ingestion of fluid should be at a slow pace until the appearance of the urine is clear in colour or your child is able to keep down fluids without vomiting or passing it out through diarrhoea.
*If your child is unable to keep fluids, wait for an interval of 30- 40 minutes and try again.
*Breastfed babies should continue with regular feeds with the addition of oral rehydration fluids.
*If bottle fed babies suffer with diarrhoea and become dehydrated, the formula should be change for a lactose free formula.
*Your child should avoid consuming spicy or salty foods, milk, fruit juice or cool drink. Consuming plain water should also be avoided as it has no electrolytes.
*In severe forms dehydration hospitalisation may be required. The condition is treated with fluids transmitted intravenously providing the body with water and essential nutrients much quicker than oral rehydration.
November 8th, 2009 by Editor
Cholesterol is essential for the proper functioning of nerves and the manufacture of important hormones in the body. This white waxy substance that has no smell or taste is made either by the liver or is part of the daily dietary intake of food. Cholesterol commonly found in foods such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, whole milk products and seafood is the common cause in the development of artery clogging plaques on the inner walls resulting in the artery hardening and blockages developing. This hinders the flow of blood entering the heart resulting in a heart attack and stroke.
Cholesterol regulates itself throughout the body in 3 different forms. These include:
*LDL-Low density lipoprotein which is manufactured by the liver and contributes to the fatting deposits around the artery walls resulting in the clogging of the artery.
*Triglycerides- which are unsaturated fat that is not entirely broken down by the liver
*HDL-High density lipoprotein is made in the liver and responses to exercise, certain foods and can often reverse the damage done by LDL.
An important factor to consider in the manufacture of cholesterol in your child’s diet is to identify the 3 different types of fats that affect the blood cholesterol level:
*Saturated fat causes a raise in blood cholesterol levels resulting in weight gain due to the high amount of kilojoules and the increase risk of heart disease. This type of fat commonly found in animal sources (meat, cheese, butter) remains solid in room temperature. Saturated fat is difficult to digest and store in the body.
*Polyunsaturated fat is similar to the effects of saturated fat except the kilojoules consumed are nutritious as they provide essential fatty acids (EFA). This fat is commonly found in vegetable oils, oily fish nuts and seeds. EFA provides the body with protection against heart disease, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and eczema. These fats are essential for the development of the baby in the uterus.
*Trans-fats are the by-product of the hydrogenation process used to manufacture vegetable oils. The hydrogenated process can cause damage to the body cells.
*Monounsaturated fats are beneficial to health of the body as it is a rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. It also contains antioxidants that can prevent cancer, arthritis and heart disease.
How to limit the intake of cholesterol in your child’s diet:
*Encourage your child to eat less fat especially foods that contain saturated fats
*If your child is over weight, limit the intake of food that is high in fats and modify your child’s diet to include healthier food options. Encourage your child to get involved in physical activities to promote weight loss.
*The healthy foods consumed should include fibre rich foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables, whole wheat bread, rice and pasta.
*Limit the intake of fat by trimming the visible fat of meats, the rind of soft cheese and the thick spreading of butter. Reserve the intake of biscuits and cakes for treats rather than daily snacking.
November 3rd, 2009 by Editor
Urinary tract infections in infants and children-causes and treatment
Urinary tract infection is a serious condition affecting children and adults mainly in the female gender. This is due to the short distance of the opening between the urethra and the anus. This condition causes an infection in the kidney, urethra and bladder. Urinary tract infection occurs when bacteria invades the body and travels in an upward direction to the urethra leading to the bladder. This causes an infection of the bladder resulting in pain of the lower abdominal area and swelling which is commonly referred to as cystitis. If the bacteria travel’s further up towards the kidneys, a kidney infection can occur. There are 3 types of urinary tract infections. These include the kidney (acute pylelone phritis), bladder (cystitis) and urethra (urethritis).
Symptoms of urinary tract infections in children include:
*The inflammation and irritation of the urethra and bladder
*Burning sensation and pain experienced during urination
*The persistent urge to urinate frequently
*The urine passed is often cloudy in appearance and is usually accompanied by a bad odour or blood
*Pain may be experienced in the lower abdominal area, side or back
*A mild fever may occur
*Your child may pass frequent small drops of urine
In serious cases of urinary tract infections the following symptoms may be experienced:
*A high fever may be experienced
*Persistent pain can be present in the back, waist or side areas
*Nausea, vomiting and shiver chills are also signs of a serious urinary tract infection
*In newborns the baby may experience a high fever or hypothermia. Jaundice and poor feeding are indication of urinary tract infection.
*Children often become irritable and they can suffer with loss of bowel movement which is often accompanied by loose or watery stools.
Common causes associated with urinary tract infection in children:
*UTI occurs when bacteria (E.coli) that lives in the bowel of the colon invades the urethra of the bladder resulting in an infection. The bacteria can enter due to poor hygiene as children have trouble wiping themselves after bowel movement.
*Young children are at a risk of developing kidney infection due to urinary tract infections. If the child has poor kidney growth, juvenile diabetes, spinal injury, aids or high blood pressure they are more susceptible to urinary tract infection
* UTI in children can also indicate an abnormality in the urinary tract such as a blockage
*Delayed trips to the bathroom or catheterisation (an insertion into the urethra to drain urine) can promote the occurrence of UTI.
Treatment for urinary tract infection for children:
*Seek medical help immediately where a qualified doctor can examine and diagnose your child. A urine test is often done to help diagnose the condition. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat the condition.
*Ensure that your child consumes plenty of fluids especially cranberry juice.
*Use a hot water bottle to help relieve the pain in the abdominal, side and back areas
*Avoid the consumption of caffeinated beverages and spicy food as it can irritate the bladder.
*Encourage your child to take regular trips to the toilet
*Children especially girls should wipe from the front to the back to prevent the bacteria entering the urethra from the anus.
*Your child should avoid using perfumed products around the genital area
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