With lockdown and uncertainty staring in our face, we need to be really informed about our Child's health and avoid unnecessary exposure. When do we really need to see a pediatrician during the lockdown?
Dr. Rajendra Dev advises us on the above.
Cold and lower respiratory tract infection is a common illness in children. When do we see it as a suspected COVID infection?
Most of the respiratory infections and common cold in children are viral, transmitted from one child to the other when in close contact in places like nurseries, play schools, and all the institutions where a large number of children come together. All these are drastically reduced due to lockdown.
Running nose, cough, fever with normal activities are signs of the common cold. One can suspect COVID-19 only if there is a history of travel; the history of contact with an infected person and all the symptoms of cold with high fever and breathlessness / rapid breathing.
For which conditions do parents need to see a pediatrician during this lockdown- FAQ nowadays as transportation is difficult especially where people rely on public transport?
Most of the common ailments are self-limiting and even a bit of telephonic advice will suffice.
Few common conditions needing urgent consultation are:
- Any trauma (injury)
- Severe allergic reaction, rashes.
- The severe asthmatic attack,
- Very high fever lasting for more than three days,
- Persistent vomiting,
- Frequent large loose stools
- Any type of convulsion (fit).
Diarrhoea, vomiting is common in summer months but with the lockdown and frequent hand washing the incidence is decreased.
- The treatment of diarrhoea is ORS in plenty.
- A simple diet like rice water, liquid kanji. Probiotics, curds also help.
Warning signs in children are:
- Decreased quantities of urine.
- Dry tongue and
- Decreased activity (movements)
Excessive crying in children can be due to:
- Colicky pain of bowels or urinary tract or pain in the ear.
- Little older children can pinpoint the site of pain.
New-born babies up to the age of one month (Neonates) need urgent medical attention in case of:
- Fever
- Ear discharge
- Poor sucking (feeding)
- Poor activities (child not doing much movement)
Thus, The havoc caused by COVID-19 might be affecting our lives but preventive measures can ease pressure from the hospitals. As thousands of Healthcare workers are working round the clock to save COVID-19 patients.
