Flu and catarrhal processes, as well as respiratory problems, are common in paediatric consultations during the winter because of the cold temperatures and the young patients’ still immature immune systems. Even though we can’t stop them from getting sick, especially if they’re around other kids, we can teach them good habits to help reduce their risk of getting sick during the cold and flu season. The topic of today’s article is how to keep young children healthy while avoiding common illnesses.
The most prevalent diseases in children under the age of 18
The first few years of a baby’s life are critical for developing a healthy microbiota and immune system. The functioning of children differs from that of adults, despite the fact that they are not necessarily weak due to their immaturity. Because they have a better ability to respond when faced with certain diseases, they don’t get them. Or the intensity will be reduced if you do.
Because they are still immature and developing immunity, they are susceptible to a variety of diseases.
Colds, flu, and everything in between
Viruses and bacteria are all around us, and we are developing resistance to them as we grow older. A healthy immune system can deal with these germs without putting the person at risk of becoming ill.
Boys and girls, on the other hand, do not have this problem. As a result, they are more susceptible to catching the same cold over and over again. Due to the fact that they create or spread them amongst each other during school.
Tonsillitis and pharyngitis
Tonsillitis and pharyngitis are both inflammations of the pharynx. Their cause is a streptococcal bacterial infection. Antibiotics are used to treat them, but if a carrier is nearby, infections may recur.
Problems with the respiratory system
In the winter, respiratory illnesses are common in both boys and girls. Low temperatures don’t cause these diseases, but they make them more noticeable. When we have a cold, our nose’s cilia, or small hairs, become immobile, making them less effective as a barrier against microorganisms. Children’s immune systems are still developing, so their defences are weaker.
However, we must remember that if these winter diseases are not treated properly, they can develop into chronic diseases or have serious effects on children’s health.
Preventing common illnesses with these simple tips
We can follow these guidelines to keep our children healthy this winter and avoid the most common illnesses:
The house should be properly ventilated and heated.
The most important piece of advice for keeping children healthy is to keep the house ventilated and at the proper temperature. Due to the shorter days and frigid temperatures, we tend to spend more time indoors during the winter months.
For best results, open the windows for at least 10 minutes each day.
Maintain a comfortable temperature in the house without turning up the heat excessively. If you’re going to be outside in the cold, you need to train your body’s temperature-regulating mechanisms.
Because heating dries out the air and can exacerbate certain infections, use humidifiers.
Frequently wash your hands
One of the most effective ways to keep germs out of the home is to wash hands often. This is especially true before you have eaten anything or have been in contact with other children, as well as when you get home.
coughing and sneezing in one arm
Similarly to what we should do as adults, teaching children to sneeze and cough while covering their mouth and nose is a great way to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria through their hands. Blowing one’s nose with a handkerchief is also acceptable.
Shelter, in a reasonable manner
Even in the winter, it is not uncommon to see children who are overly cold. Aim for a reasonable amount of shelter: a lot when going outside (especially covering the nose and mouth), and a lot less in places that are warmed up by heat sources. While it’s best to stay out of situations where temperatures fluctuate rapidly (like driving or taking public transportation), it’s also important to be prepared for those that do. As a result, another way to prevent common diseases in children is to regulate the type of coat we wear.
Stay away from other patients and avoid crowded, enclosed spaces.
As previously stated, children have a weakened immune system, making them more susceptible to viruses and bacteria that can accumulate in confined spaces. We must also avoid contact with other patients for the same reason.
Do not use tobacco products.
Toxins in tobacco smoke weaken children’s immune systems, increasing their risk of respiratory problems.
Proper nutrition is essential for good health.
The vitamin A and C content of foods like fruits and vegetables must be increased during the winter months to keep children’s immune systems strong.
