Intro

"Do I need to take my child to the doctor for that?"

If you've ever asked yourself that question, then here could be your solution.

This blog was designed and written by Registered Nurses especially for moms and dads to use as a learning tool before heading to the doctor!!!

Kick the Sick is a more personal type of information source. We share personal experience and you can share yours too. 

Take a look around!

We are just getting this blog up and going and would love to get your feedback and hear what other things you'd like to see posted.

This blog does not provide medical advise, diagnosis, or treatment.
We do not guarantee the full accuracy of information on this blog or that it is up to date with the latest research, or that it is the full information about topics.

Fevers

When your child has a fever, it can feel like an alarming issue. Many of us have experienced our child waking up hot, sweaty, and uncomfortable and feel that their head is hot. A fever is not always a bad thing, however, and can be their body’s natural response to fighting off an infection.

-A normal body temperature is about 98.6 F or 37.0 C, but slightly lower or higher levels are ok.

-A rectal or ear temperature may be higher than an oral (mouth) temperature.

Your child has a fever if:

-Rectal, Ear or Temporal Artery (TA) temperature: 100.4° F (38.0° C) or higher

-Oral or Pacifier temperature: 100° F (37.8° C) or higher

-Under the arm (Axillary or armpit) temperature: 99° F (37.2° C) or higher

-Babies 6 months and younger should see their pediatrician for a fever

-Fevers will usually resolve at home within 72 hours and giving Tylenol, under the direction of your physician will help to control the level.

Usually Tylenol or Ibuprofen is used to treat fevers at home. NEVER GIVE ASPIRIN TO CHILDREN. Don’t give Ibuprofen to children under 6 months old.

Contact your pediatrician for specific dosing as it varies depending on age and weight.

Contact your pediatrician if fever is above 106 degrees or your child is lethargic, sleeping, or excessively irritable.

For more detailed information, visit http://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/fever_and_temperature_taking

Reference: Caring for Kids. (2008). Fever and temperature taking. Retrieved from http://www.caringforkids.cps.ca/handouts/fever_and_temperature_taking

Menstruation and Toxic Shock Syndrome

This is kind of just a guide mostly for you single dads out there who have no idea what is going on! There is some useful information for moms though as well. Menstruation refers to that wonderful time when your beautiful daughter is maturing and starts her period. When menstruation starts, every month the body builds up a lining of tissue and blood in the uterus. If you do not get pregnant then this lining is shed. The lining passes from the uterus and out through the vagina. This is what is usually referred to as being "on your period" or menstruation. The amount of days when you actually bleed is different for everyone, but usually last about 3-5 days. Menstruation usually starts around age 12-15.

The National Institute of Health (NIH) recommend to see a doctor if:

• You haven't started menstruating by age 16
• Your period suddenly stops
• You bleed excessively, or for more days than usual
• You suddenly feel sick after using tampons
• You bleed between periods
• You have severe pain during your period

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) dealing with menstruation is thought to be caused by toxins from bacteria which build up while the tampon is in the vagina. Thoughts are that tampons may cause small tears in the vagina which may allow these toxins and bacteria to enter the bloodstream, or that super absorbent tampon fibers are breeding grounds for bacteria. Either way, if these toxins and/or bacteria enter the bloodstream the person may have TSS which is a medical emergency and these ladies need treatment immediately (Mayo Clinic, 2011). 

Signs and symptoms of TSS are:

• A sudden high fever
• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• A rash resembling a sunburn, particularly on your palms and soles
• Confusion
• Muscle aches
• Redness of your eyes, mouth and throat
• Seizures
• Headaches

Recommendations for tampons include: changing tampons frequently about every 4-8 hours, only use tampons when really needed, and using the lowest absorbency tampon possible depending on your flow.

For more information about menstruation visit http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/menstruation.html

For more information about TSS visit http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/toxic-shock-syndrome/DS00221

Mayo Clinic. (2011, May). Toxic shock syndrome: Symptoms. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved fromhttp://www.mayoclinic.com/health/toxic-shock-syndrome/DS00221/DSECTION=symptoms

Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women's Health. (n.d.) Menstruation. Medline Plus. Retrieved from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/menstruation.html

Sty

A sty (hordeolum) is a red lump usually at the edge of your eye lid. It can be painful. These sometimes turn into what is called a chalazion. A chalazion is a blockage of a gland in the eyelid. Initial treatment for both are similar.  Start out treatment for these by putting a warm compress on the eye for 10-15 minutes at least 4 times a day. If the it does not seem to be getting better after 48 hours then let your doctor know. Don't wear contact or makeup on the affected eye. That will only irritate it more. Also do not squeeze or try to pop the lump. If it does need to be drained your doctor must do that. Your doctor might prescribe an antibiotic if the problem persists, or you may need surgery if it doesn't go away on it's own, but it usually does. Good luck with these annoying little buggers.

For more info and complications visit http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001009.htm

Impetigo

Impetigo is an infection of the skin which is usually a staph (staphylococcal bacteria), but sometimes strep (streptococcal bacteria) infection. It typically enters the skin through small cuts or insect bites. It forms little red pimple looking spots that then fill with pus and later break open and form a yummy thick crust. (Not really yummy, do not eat!) They are really itchy, but if you scratch them they will spread. Coming in contact with these sores, or with nasal drainage can spread the infection to someone else. Sometimes the infection will go away on its own after a few weeks, but occasionally impetigo can cause other problems so your doctor might want to prescribe an cream or oral antibiotic.


For more information and pictures you can visit http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/impetigo/DS00464

Drug Use

There are so many different kinds of drugs out there and kids are being exposed to them at younger and younger ages. Kids do not know much about drugs except what their friends tell them unless us parents talk about drugs with them. Seriously almost all of the time teens have no idea how dangerous drugs are. Be aware of any kind of substances you have in your home, whether it be alcohol, cigarrettes, prescription drugs or inhalants. Keep track of what you have in your home and if any of these things come up missing. Keep prescription drugs hidden or locked up. Remember that buying alcohol for teens in against the law. There is so much information to cover in drug use. We strongly advise you too search it out and TALK with your kids about it. Who would you rather them learn about drugs from? You guys can do this.

To get started you can visit the National Institute of Drug Abuse at http://teens.drugabuse.gov

Don't forget, your kids need you to do this.

Infectious Mononucleosis (Mono)

Infectious Mononucleosis (Mono), is caused by a virus called the Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). It has also been called the "kissing disease." This is because the virus is spread through the saliva and can be spread by kissing, sharing cups, and things like that, but it isn't spread as easily a something like the common cold. Usually children don't come in contact with the EBV, but if they do their symptoms are more just like a normal viral infection. Adolescence however are a lot more likely to contract the EBV and have it develop into Infectious Mononucleosis. Teens will likely be very tired, possibly have a sore throat and swollen lymph nodes, the general crappy feeling, fever, headache, and something to be aware of.... a swollen spleen.

People who have mono do not want to engage in activities in which they might hit their spleen. If a spleen bursts, it is a medical emergency. They need to go the emergency room asap. The spleen is located in the left upper area of the abdomen. The bursting of a spleen would be indicated by pain.

Mono usually last about 4-6 weeks, and might put the child out of school for a while. You will have to ask your doctor when they will be able to return to normal activities again.

For more information about Infectious Mononucleosis visit http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/mononucleosis/DS00352

Laryngitis

Laryngitis is known because of its common obvious symptom which is hoarseness or loss of voice. Laryngitis easily explained is when there is swelling of your voice box (larynx). 

Laryngitis occurs most commonly with upper respiratory infections, but can also occur with allergies, injury, overuse, and a few other conditions. If you have laryngitis, you may also have a fever and swollen lymph nodes. Using your voice too much while it's inflamed can cause permanent damage, so use it sparingly and get a white board or something!

The mayo clinic suggest to seek immediate medical attention if your child:

• Makes noisy, high-pitched breathing sounds when inhaling
• Drools more than usual
• Has trouble swallowing
• Has difficulty breathing
• Has a fever higher than 103 F (39.4 C)

Laryngitis will usually go away on its own, but you will want to notify your doctor if you hoarseness has lasted two weeks or longer.

For more info visit http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/laryngitis/DS00366

Croup

Croup is a condition referring to inflammation of the upper airway in the throat area. This inflammation makes a cough sound like a seal barking. You might also hear a high pitched noise when they take a breath. Croup usually can be taken care of at home. The cough often gets worse at night. Croup may seem scary, but there is actually less than 5% of cases which actually have airway obstruction bad enough to be admitted to the hospital (Mayo Clinic, n.d.). That is encouraging, right, well ok, it's still not any fun.

The Mayo Clinic has provided guidelines of when to get your child immediate medical attention. These include: 

• Make noisy, high-pitched breathing sounds (stridor) both when inhaling and exhaling
• Begins drooling or has difficulty swallowing
• Seems anxious, agitated or fatigued
• Breathes at a faster rate than usual
• Struggles to breathe
• Develops blue or grayish skin around the nose, mouth or fingernails (cyanosis)

Some steroids and possibly a fast acting medication may be prescribed or given if croup last a few days. You will want to make sure to keep your child calm, given them something your doctor suggests for pain, use a humidifier, make sure they are drinking, and help them get some sleep. My daughters cough always gets worse when she is in her car seat. That little bit of recline does it to her every time. Holding your child upright when you can may help the cough. 

For more information you can go to the Mayo Clinic website at 

www.mayoclinic.com/health/croup/DS00312

Febrile Seizure

A febrile seizure is a seizure that occurs in relation to a fever. If the temperature goes up too quickly or down too quickly a seizure can happen. They will usually occur in children from 6 months until 5 years. The seizure will only last for a few minutes, and does not mean your child will have brain damage or develop epilepsy. If someone in the family has had a febrile seizure others within that family will be at greater risk. Also, having a febrile seizure may put you at risk for having another one. However, most children will outgrow this by age 5.

If your child is having a seizure, the Mayo clinic recommends to:

• Place your child on his or her side, somewhere where he or she won't fall.
• Stay close to watch and comfort your child.
• Remove any hard or sharp objects near your child.
• Loosen any tight or restrictive clothing.
• Don't restrain your child or interfere with your child's movements.
• Don't attempt to put anything in your child's mouth.

Giving your child medication for the fever might help the fever, but not necessarily prevent the seizure.

Personal note:
My daughter had a febrile seizure while she was sick with RSV. It was the scariest thing ever. She was just limp at first and the seizing started after about 30 seconds or so (time was difficult to tell). I did call for an ambulance. The seizure happened after I applied a cold rag to her head. I was not instructed to not do this, but I will tell you that I will never do it again. I was told however to never put your child in a cold bath or ice bath. I wouldn't have ever done this anyway, but apparently you're not supposed to just in case you are wondering.

For more info you can go to http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/febrile-seizure/DS00346

Concussion and Head Trauma

If you have kids in sports you will likely deal with concussions at some point. Concussions can occur after a blow to the head or extreme shaking of the head or body. Sometimes you will loose consciousness and sometimes you won't. I think I've had one of each. I say I think, because when a person does not loose consciousness they may not know that they have a concussion. Concussions do cause injury to the brain and need time to recover. Recovery may take from days up to several weeks.

The Mayo Clinic reports the following information about concussions:

Signs and symptoms of a concussion are:

• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Temporary loss of consciousness
• Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
• Amnesia surrounding the traumatic event
• Dizziness or "seeing stars"
• Ringing in the ears
• Nausea or vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Fatigue

In infants and young children you can look for:

• Listlessness, tiring easily
• Irritability, crankiness
• Change in eating or sleeping patterns
• Lack of interest in favorite toys
• Loss of balance, unsteady walking

See a doctor within one to two days if:

• You or your child experiences a head injury, even if emergency care isn't required

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you call your child's doctor for advice if your child receives anything more than a light bump on the head. If your child remains alert, moves normally and responds to you, the injury is probably mild and usually doesn't need further testing. In this case, if your child wants to nap, it's OK to let them sleep. If worrisome signs develop later, seek emergency care.

Seek emergency care for a child who experiences a head injury and:

• Vomiting
• A headache that gets worse over time
• Changes in his or her behavior, including irritability or fussiness
• Changes in physical coordination, including stumbling or clumsiness
• Confusion or disorientation
• Slurred speech or other changes in speech
• Vision or eye disturbances, including pupils that are bigger than normal (dilated pupils) or pupils of unequal sizes
• Changes in breathing pattern
• Lasting or recurrent dizziness
• Blood or fluid discharge from the nose or ears
• Large head bumps or bruises on areas other than the forehead, especially in infants under 12 months of age

Seek emergency care for anyone who experiences a head injury and:

• A loss of consciousness lasting more than a minute
• Repeated vomiting
• Seizures
• Obvious difficulty with mental function or physical coordination
• Symptoms that worsen over time

For more information you can visit http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/concussion/DS00320/METHOD=print

Hand Foot and Mouth Disease

Hand Foot and Mouth Disease is a bugger. I will tell you that. My daughter had it at 18 months. Some of the signs to look for are unwillingness to eat, because of sores in the mouth, rash on the hands, feet and buttocks. The poor little things are miserable. This is caused by a virus, so antibiotics will not help this infection. You just have to wait it out.

Symptoms include the mouth sores and rash as I stated, fever, sore throat, and a general crappy feeling. Children might not eat much, but they need to still be drinking fluids so that they don't become dehydrated. Also make sure to wash their hands often and any contaminated surfaces including toys. Your doctor might tell you to give them something for the pain, likely tylenol or ibuprofen, and also maybe something to numb the mouth.

FYI: It can be spread to adults so don't be sharing cups, utensils, etc. just because you are old!

For more information visit the CDC at http://www.cdc.gov/hand-foot-mouth/about/index.html

Sprains and Strains

Sprains and Strains, what is the difference? We have often heard the terms but do you really know what they mean, or what to do about them? Well here are your answers!

Sprains are when you tear or stretch a ligament, whereas strains are when you tear or stretch a muscle or tendon. Ligaments are the tissue that connect the bones in a joint. Tendons are tissues that connect muscle to bones.

Sprained ankles and wrists occur most frequently and you may even hear a pop or tear when the sprain occurs. You will notice swelling, pain, bruising, and you will likely have a hard time moving your joint. These usually occur from falling, or twisting.

Strains occur when you overexert a muscle or tendon, lift the wrong way, or have a recent injury. They also can occur over time by using it the same way over and over. Strains will have some different symptoms than sprains. There may still be pain and swelling, but also the muscle might be weak, spasming, cramping, or unable to move.

Guidelines for treatment for both strains and sprains from the National Institute of Health say to:

• "Rest the injured area. If the ankle or knee is hurt, the doctor might tell you to use crutches or a cane.
• Put ice on the injury for 20 minutes at a time. The doctor might say to do this 4 to 8 times a day.
• Compress (squeeze) the injury using special bandages, casts, boots, or splints. Your doctor will tell you which one is best for you and how tight it should be.
• Put the injured ankle, knee, elbow, or wrist up on a pillow.
• The doctor may recommend taking medicines, such as aspirin or ibuprofen" (NIH, 2009).

NIH. (2012). What are Sprains and Strains? NIH. Retrieved from http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Sprains_Strains/sprains_and_strains_ff.asp

Appendicitis

If your child tells you they are having pain in their abdomen especially the lower right side of the abdomen, you need to accept that it could be appendicitis.

Appendicitis means inflammation of the appendix. The appendix is a little organ that is attached to the beginning of the large intestine. This is located in the lower right side of the abdomen. The function of the appendix isn't really known. Appendicitis will occur for different reasons, but should be taken care of immediately. There are many symptoms of appendicitis, but mostly everyone will have abdominal pain, often on the right side. The pain is usually sudden and will get worse over time. They might also feel jittery, nauseated, have diarrhea or constipation, and maybe a little fever.

Appendicitis will usually always be treated by having surgery to remove the appendix. Depending on where you are located, they may do a type of surgery where they inflate the belly, make a few small incision, put a camera through the small incision into the abdomen, and take out the appendix, all by watching what they are doing on a screen. It is really neat. It's called a laparoscopic appendectomy. This surgery is relatively quick with only small scars.

The appendix can burst if not treated in time. This would cause an infection within the abdomen. Appendicitis is a medical emergency and those experiencing the symptoms should go to the emergency room.



For more information you can go the the NDDIC webpage at http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/appendicitis/index.aspx

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is something we all are most likely going to deal with at some point. Diarrhea occurs when a person is having loose watery stools more frequently than usual. With diarrhea you may also have cramps, bloating, and nausea. Diarrhea can be caused by many different sources. These include, bacterial or viral infections, some medications, intolerance to foods, foods which have laxative effects, or diseases of the digestive tract.

Diarrhea is common, but can become serious. Dehydration is a big factor that needs to be monitored while one is having diarrhea. Drink fluids often to prevent dehydration. Some symptoms of dehydration are: decreased or no urination, tiredness, lethargy or change in mental status, excessive thirst, dry mouth, extreme weakness, or lightheadedness. If this occurs go to you see your doctor. Dehydration can develop more rapidly in children and can be more severe. If your child is having any of these symptoms, have them seen right away.

Other times to see a doctor include if diarrhea persists for more than three days, 24 hours for children, any kind of bloody or black bowel movements, if there is a fever above 102 F, any severe pain of abdomen or rectum, children with a sunken appearance to any part of their face or abdomen, or no tears when crying. With children watch how much they are urinating, or in infants check their diapers.


Information from the NDDIC. For more information click here.....NDDIC

Why is the amount of urine so important?

The bowels absorb fluid and it ends up in the bloodstream. The kidneys take water and other substances from the blood stream and put it into the bladder where you will eventually empty it through urination. If the kidneys can tell there is not enough water in your blood to take out it wont take it out and thus you won't be urinating very much. And if the kidney's can tell there isn't enough water to take out, then the rest of your body doesn't have the amount of water that it needs too. This is dehydration.


Side note: As always if you ever have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to contact your doctor.

Ringworm

Ringworm, also called Tinea Corporis, is a fungal infection. It causes a rash that often takes on the shape of a ring.  Ringworm is not actually caused by a worm. It can be treated with appropriate creams. Ringworm can also occur on the scalp. If this occurs there may be some hair loss at the site where the ringworm is developing into a rash.

Ringworm can be spread through contact with another person who has ringworm or through moist surfaces. It can also be spread through animals. If this is the case, the animal will need to be treated as well.

Flu vs. Food Poisoning

When talking about the differences between food poisoning and the flu, one needs to understand that both are probably related to some kind of stomach irritation. The flu is most commonly caused by a virus whereas food poisoning is related to something that was injested and either not properly cooked or was already bad from being old or expired. In both cases, the child or the adult will experience feelings of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and chills. The most important thing in both cases is to stay well hydrated. If a person starts to feel dizzy or lightheaded, this may indicate dehydration.

-Be cautious with children because they may want to drink a lot of fluid at once, but this may cause them to vomit. Encourage children to drink small amounts of fluids frequently. Avoid solid foods and milk products until vomiting and diarrhea has passed.

-It is not usually a good idea to take medication for diarrhea during this time as this is your body's natural way of trying to expel the bacteria if it is food poisoning.

-Antibiotics usually don't shorten the length of sickness related to food poisoning, so unless you or your child is experiencing complications, your doctor may not prescribe you one.

Since symptoms are similar, the easiest way to tell the difference may be if other people who ate the food become sick as well.

If your child's vomiting lasts more than 2 days or has diarrhea that lasts more than 3 days, notify your pediatrician.

For more information, please visit http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/food-poisoning/food-poisoning

Asthma

   Asthma is a chronic disorder which affects the tubes in your lungs that air goes through. These tubes can become swollen and irritated causing more difficulty for the air to pass through. Allergies or items lungs find irritating can make the asthma worse. Symptoms one might notice with asthma include wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and coughing at night or early in the morning (National Center for Environmental Health, 2012).

   Asthma can be treated with medication when taken as your practitioner has prescribed. These medications can be pills or inhalers, and some are long-term control while others are quick-relief. This is why it is important to follow the practitioners order on how to take the medications.

   Asthma attacks are accompanied by a sudden worsening of your asthma symptoms. People who experience severe asthma attacks should be taken to get emergency care (NIH, n.d.).

   Some triggers for asthma attacks include tobacco smoke, dust mites, outdoor air pollution, cockroach allergen, pets, mold, smoke from burning wood or grass, respiratory and sinus infections, exercise,
some medicines, bad weather, breathing in cold, dry air, some foods, food additives, fragrances, and strong emotions.

    If you suspect that your child has asthma you should take them into your practitioner to be evaluated (National Center for Environmental Health, 2012).

References:

National Center for Environmental Health. (2012). Asthma: Basic information. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/asthma/faqs.htm

NIH. (n.d.). Asthma. Medline Plus. Retrieved from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/asthma.html

Lice

Lice can be passed from one child to another, so if you think your child has lice, check their scalps thoroughly. Lice are not dangerous, but can be very difficult to get rid of. Lice cannot jump or fly, so contact with lice is spread from hats, brushes, pillows, or other things that come in contact with the head. Nits are eggs that female lice lay around the hair follicle and can be difficult to see. Lice don’t live more than a few days, but can live for up to 6 hours under water, so showering will not wash them away.

 -If you notice that your child is scratching their head a lot, you may want to check for lice.

-If you see that your child does have lice, check all of your other children for lice.  Developing eggs are somewhat dark in color but after hatching the egg cases are white. Check the scalp in a lighted area.

-Treat all infected with lice at the same time. It may be difficult to see nits, so if you know that one child has lice, it may be best to treat all of them.

-Experts advise treating lice with over-the-counter medicated shampoos called pediculicides (derived from chrysanthemums). If you want to avoid insecticides entirely, you could try using soap shampoos that contain coconut or olive oils. Most soaps kill all stages of the louse except the egg. Four shampoos, each about 3 days apart, should kill most of the lice as each successive shampoo kills newly hatched nits. Always combine shampooing with daily combing and a cleaning of the environment (UCIMP, 2001).

-UC IMP Online states the following when trying to remove lice:

Starting at the crown of the head, separate out a section of hair that is about 1 inch by 1/2 inch; hold it out from the head. Insert the louse comb at the base of the hair section as close as possible to the scalp, and pull the comb slowly through the hair. Be sure to slant the comb so that the curved side of the teeth is towards the head. If you aren't using a comb, go through each small section of hair and use your fingernails to pull the eggs off the hair, or cut the individual hairs off. Use the tissues to clean any lice or debris from the comb following each combing or to collect nits and hair that are removed, and put the tissue in the plastic bag. Continue to comb the section of hair until you feel sure it is free of nits or lice, then pin it out of the way with a hair clip and start on the next section of hair. If the hair dries during the combing process, wet it again with water to reduce pulling and hair loss. When all the hair has been combed, rinse it thoroughly with water and then dry. After the hair is completely dry, check the entire head for stray nits and remove them individually (UCIMP, 2001).

-Gather items from around your home that may have transferred lice from one person to another such as combs, hats, brushes, pillow cases, and pillows and wash them in hot water. Wash bedding and clothing that was used in the last 48 hours. If there are things like stuffed animals that can’t be washed, but may be infested, put in the dryer for 20 minutes or longer to kill the bugs.

-Make sure to treat a second time for lice after about 10 days to ensure that all lice are killed. Nits that are not hatched during the first treatment will hatch after the first treatment.

For very detailed information on how to treat lice on your child and in your home, visit:

http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7446.html

Reference:

UCIMP Online. (2001, August). Headlice management guildlines. Retrieved from http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7446.html

Pink Eye

Pink eye is also called conjunctivitis and affects the inner red membrane of the eye and the eye surface. The infection can cause redness, swelling, tear-like drainage, itching, or tenderness to the area. Pink eye is a common eye infection and will usually resolve on its own within a week or two, but it is important to know with pink eye that it can be spread easily. If a person with pink eye uses a towel on their face and eyes and then shares it with another person in the family, it could be passed to that person.

-The best practice for pink eye is for the child infected and those assisting the child to wash their hands regularly.

Pink eye can be caused by either a virus or bacteria. If you suspect that your child has pink eye, take them to the doctor and the doctor will be able to distinguish whether it is bacteria or a virus that is causing the pink eye by the type of drainage that is seeping from the eye. If the infection is caused by bacteria, the doctor will be able to prescribe an antibiotic for treatment. If the infection is caused by a virus, you will have to just give the pink eye time to resolve. The doctor may prescribe you some medication to help keep your child more comfortable such as drops or ointment.

Using a cool or warm washcloth at home can be used for comfort. Parents can help comfort their child at home by gently cleaning the eye with cotton balls or the washcloths.

If you suspect pink eye in an infant it may be due to a clogged tear duct and your pediatrician should be notified.

 For more information and picture, please visit http://kidshealth.org/kid/ill_injure/sick/conjunctivitis.html

Strep vs. Sore Throat

Sore throats can happen at lot to kids, but it is often difficult to distinguish if your child has just a sore throat or if it’s strep. If your child has a sore throat you can usually treat it at home with home remedies such as throat lozenges, numbing spray like Chloraseptic, or if your child is old enough, you can gargle with mouthwash or salt water.

One thing you can do when your child complains of a sore throat is check in the back of his or her throat. At kidshealth.org they suggest to look for the following:

-Red and white patches in the throat

-Difficulty swallowing

-Tender or swollen glands (lymph nodes) in the neck

-Red and enlarged tonsils

-Headache

-Lower stomach pain

-Fever

-General discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling

-loss of appetite or nausea

-rash

The red and white patches are most common a great indicator of strep. If you see these things, contact your MD and have a rapid strep test completed.

Rapid strep test: A nurse or the doctor will swab the back of your child’s throat (where the redness, swelling, or patches are) to see if your child is positive for strep. Tests usually show within a few minutes if positive, but your doctor will continue to see if the results change over the next 24-48 hours. If it changes to positive over that period of time, your doctor will probably treat your child with medication.

At home: If your child does not have strep, continue to try and keep your child comfortable with Tylenol, Ibuprofen, or numbing spray under the direction of the medication guidelines or suggestion of your pediatrician.

For more information, please visit http://kidshealth.org/parent/infections/lung/strep_throat.html

Bites and Stings

During the warm weather season’s our children are probably outside more than they are inside which exposes them to bugs, insects, and animals that puts them at risk for bites and stings. Of course, we don’t want this to make us fearful of letting them play outside, but knowing how to treat a bug bite or a sting will give us the most comfort.

	Bite	Sting	What to do immediately
Flying ants	X		Wash bitten area with soap and water, take antihistamine like Benadryl.
Bees/Hornets/Wasps		X	Remove stinger by sliding credit card against it if needed. Don’t use tweezers as this may break the stinger or inject more venom. Apply ice to area and administer Tylenol or ibuprofen to start controlling the pain.
Dogs	X		Control bleeding and elevate area if needed. Go to hospital if it is deep bite requiring stitches. Once bleeding stops wash with soap and water and then run area under water for several minutes to wash away bacteria.
Spiders	X		Wash with soap and water. If brown recluse or black widow bite is suspected, call MD. Apply ice pack and administer Tylenol or Ibuprofen to start controlling the pain.
Mosquitos	X		Wash with soap and water and try not to scratch it as it may spread the area of itch.
Snakes	X		If you KNOW the snake isn’t venomous then apply pressure to site if it is bleeding. Once bleeding has stopped, wash with soap and warm water. If you know the snake IS VENOMOUS, CALL 911
Scorpions		X	Apply ice to the sting and notify your pediatrician immediately. If you can, try to identify the scorpion so that you will be able to let the doctor know what kind of scorpion stung you. This will make it easier to treat.

If you go to the doctor you may receive medication for treatment of the bite or sting and the doctor will give you direction on how to treat the wound and precautions to watch for and report.

If at home:

-Watch for any increased redness or swelling

-Watch for signs and symptoms of infection such as:

                *Green or yellow drainage from site

                *Warmth

                *Increased pain

If you notice any of these findings, you should notify the doctor. If you don’t notice any of these findings, you should be able to continue to treat the bite or sting at home with Tylenol, ibuprofen, and/or Benadryl.  Make sure to follow the directions on the bottle on the dosing and if your child is under 2 years old, make a phone call to your doctor to ask about the correct dose and frequency.

For more information, please visit http://firstaid.webmd.com/tc/insect-bites-and-stings-and-spider-bites-topic-overview

Bloody Noses

Nose bleeds can occur in children and adults for various reasons. Many times with kids, they can happen from falling and bumping the nose or getting hit in the nose with a ball when playing. The most important thing that you want to assess is if the nose is disfigured.  If it is, then it may be broken and should be looked at by your pediatrician.

 

If the nose is still in alignment then the next action would be to:

*apply pressure to the bridge of the nose

*have the child tilt head down to prevent blood from going down the back of the throat

*apply ice packs to help constrict blood vessels and decrease blood flow.

It can be scary to see a lot of blood coming from your child’s nose, but it is often not dangerous. The blood flow should start to slow down and stop within 10-15 minutes depending on to injury or cause. After the first ten minutes, release pressure from the bridge of the nose and see if the blood flow has stopped. If it hasn’t, then apply pressure for another 10 minutes. If bleeding continues after a second or third try, you should contact your pediatrician.

Other causes of bloody noses can be from the child having a dry nose or picking their nose. If the child’s nose is dry, you can apply moisturizer within the nose daily to prevent further bleeds.

-If your child has frequent nose bleeds, make sure to let their doctor know.

-If your child has a nose bleed related to head trauma, call 911.

For more information, please visit http://firstaid.webmd.com/nosebleeds-causes-and-treatments

Chicken Pox

Chicken pox is caused by a virus which means it cannot be treated with antibiotics, but some doctors will prescribe anti-viral medication. Notify your doctor if you start to suspect chicken pox with your child.

Chicken pox looks like a spotted red rash and is extremely itchy. Chicken pox occurs less often due to the chicken pox vaccine, but still occurs in children, mostly under 10 years old. This virus can be spread very easily through coughing, sneezing, or touching, so it is important to take precautions and wash your hands frequently. The chicken pox is contagious until the spots are scabbed over.  Symptoms to watch for are described by PubMed Health as:

*Fever

*Headache

*Stomach ache

*250 to 500 small, itchy, fluid-filled blisters over red spots on the skin. Blisters usually start on the face, chest, or on the scalp.

As a mother with a child who has chicken pox, there are things that you can do to help your child feel more comfortable as they get through the process:

*Your child can take warm baths to help soothe the pox and decrease irritation. Use some gentle soap and rinse soap off well to prevent left over residue on skin

*Apply moisturizers to soften the skin

*Dress your child in cool, loose clothing

Most people, including children, recover without any complications or scarring and the most difficult thing is trying to keep your child comfortable through the process.

Contact your pediatrician if you notice any signs and symptoms of infection to the blisters or you notice your child having a change in behavior or any difficulty with breathing.

Keep your child home from school and keep your child away from others as much as possible to prevent spread of the pox.

Reference:

PubMed Health. (2011, Aug 2). Chickenpox. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002559/

What are germs and how are they spread?

There are germs all around us…on food, our hands, on our doorknobs. So, what are germs and are they good or bad? How do they spread and how can we stay well even though they are all around us? The two most common germs that we hear about are bacteria and viruses. On kidshealth.org, it says that,

“Bacteria (say: back-teer-ee-uh) are tiny, one-celled creatures that get nutrients from their environments in order to live. In some cases that environment is a human body. Bacteria can reproduce outside of the body or within the body as they cause infections. Some infections bacteria cause include sore throats (tonsillitis or strep throat), ear infections, cavities, and pneumonia (say: new-mo-nyuh).

But not all bacteria are bad. Some bacteria are good for our bodies — they help keep things in balance. Good bacteria live in our intestines and help us use the nutrients in the food we eat and make waste from what's left over. We couldn't make the most of a healthy meal without these important helper germs! Some bacteria are also used by scientists in labs to produce medicines and vaccines (say: vak-seens).”

“Viruses (say: vy-rus-iz) need to be inside living cells to grow and reproduce. Most viruses can't survive very long if they're not inside a living thing like a plant, animal, or person. Whatever a virus lives in is called its host. When viruses get inside people's bodies, they can spread and make people sick. Viruses cause chickenpox, measles, flu, and many other diseases. Because some viruses can live for a while on something like a doorknob or countertop, be sure to wash your hands regularly!”

We learn that bacteria are not all bad and that we need bacteria to keep our bodies regulated properly. When we come in contact with bacteria and viruses that are bad, it is most commonly spread from our hands. Think of all the things that you touch every day…the faucet, the doorknob, the counter, food, the toilet, people, car keys, phone, remote controls, keyboards. I could go on and on. Every time we touch things, we are spreading bacteria. This is why we hear all the time that washing our hands is the key! Washing our hands is really what will help us stay more healthy and keep us from spreading bad germs.

*After you sneeze or cough, wash your hands.

*Use hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

When kids are young, as parents we don't always think about washing their hands. They crawl on the floor and are constantly touching things and exploring and then they use their hands to put things in their mouths. This could be part of the cause of so much infection and illnesses in our kids. It is important for us to remember that their hands need to be washed just as much if not more than ours! It is better to use soap and warm water on our little kids instead of hand sanitizer because you don't want them to get the sanitizer in their mouths. However, there is hand sanitizer made just for small children at the grocery stores in the baby isle if you want to have some of that for on-the-go!

Reference:
Kidshealth.org. (2013). What are germs?. Retrieved from http://kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/germs.html