Why Children Miss School – Top Five Illnesses

A lot of children who start school or kindergarten are prone to recurring diseases and illness. While the children are protected at home, when put in large groups they tend to get sick more often. And why? Read below to know more.

In large groups, Humans in general and children specifically have a tendency to provide fertile breeding grounds for bacteria and viruses. Parents frequently notice that their child is sicker since he has started school or kindergarten. Here are the top five infectious illnesses to keep track of:

1. Colds –

   Though usually associated with climate and cold weather, colds are sometimes passed from another child. Children tend to have 6-8 colds a year; half of the colds are by “heritage” from another kid.

   Children usually have more severe symptoms, and due to their young age are less able to cope with the runny nose and fullness in the sinuses.

   The good news is that children usually feel better in 4-6 days, and the first 1-2 days are the hardest. If a cold persists for over a week, see a doctor to see if there is another cause for the infection such as bacteria or an infection.

2. Stomach Flu –

   commonly recognized by the symptoms of weakness, stomach irritation and diarrhea. In some cases the stomach flu can cauise dehydration and vomiting. The medical term is gastroenteritis.

   In most cases, a doctor will advise to wait for it to pass by itself. However, if the symptoms are strong, medical attention is required to avoid dehydration and escalation of the stomach flu.

3. Ear infections –

   very common condition in babies and children aged 4 months to 6 years. 75% of children will have at least one ear infection by the age of 5.

   Ear infections have several symptoms and causes, and they should be checked by a doctor or an ENT specialist. More information on ear infections and the different types can be found here.

   In most cases, watchful waiting for 3-5 days is recommended to see if the infection heals on its own. Antibiotics and painkillers are often prescribed for ear infections, though there are many natural treatments. If your child has recurrent ear infections, hearing loss or other health conditions, your doctor may suggest antibiotics or ear tubes.

4. Pink Eye –

   an inflammation of the membrane lining the eyelids. Pink Eye is one of the most contagious conditions, especially when caused by bacteria or viruses. Pink Eye can also be caused by inflammation due to a foreign object in the eye (dust, thorn, etc.).
   the best way to relief the pain and swelling is to apply cool or slightly warm compresses on the eye. In some cultures a tea bag is used as a compress.

   Pink Eye can be recognized by the symptoms – redness and itchiness of the eye, constant tearing and sometimes blurred vision & sensitivity to light.

5. Sore Throat –

   usually a sore throat accompanies another condition such as a cold or a flu. A sore throat can be a precursor to an infection or virus.

   Sore throat tends to pass by itself. There are some spays that can relieve the pain. Candy or Lozenge candies are not recommended under 6 years of age.

   an aggravation of sore throat is strep throat – this situation is more painful (when swallowing mainly), accompanied by high fever (above 101 F) and may cause difficulty to eat. Strep throat requires medical attention and antibiotics.

Preventing the illnesses!

First of all, educate your child for correct hygiene. Teach the child to wash his hands thoroughly and frequently throughout the day and after every activity. Washing hands is most important after playing outside and before eating.

Second of all, relax. Your child will be sick no matter what efforts you put in. The first few years are the time when the immune system is built, and every disease and illness makes the immune system better and your child stronger. In the past, children were infected on purpose to make them immune in the future.

The first few years of a child’s life will include a few periods of sickness, especially when in large groups of children. The older children get, they usually become less prone to illnesses and recover more quickly.

Want one less pain to cope with? Get the Eardoc for ear pian relief without medication or painkillers.

After learning what are the illnesses that make a child miss out on school, what are the main reasons for visiting a doctor?