The developing immune system of children is more prone to certain diseases, what to look for, what to expect and the available treatments can help deal with the anxiety and stress of a sick child.

Tonsillitis

Also known as Tonsil Inflammation, tonsillitis is an inflammation of the two lymph nodes located on each side of the back of your throat called the palatine tonsils. They can become inflamed by different viruses such as influenza, enterovirus, herpes virus or bacteria such as strep throat. Children from 3 to 15 years are the most susceptible to developing tonsillitis.

Symptoms may include:

• fever
• sore throat
• red swollen tonsils
• trouble swallowing
• white or yellow coating on the tonsils
• pain when swallowing
• Swollen glands in the neck
• Bad breath

May include antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and antipyretics medicines. Consult a physician before starting any medication.

Giardiasis

This infection of the small intestine is caused by a microscopic parasite called Giardia lamblia. It’s transmitted by feces. Typical sources are improperly washed fruits and vegetables after harvesting and handled by someone with unwashed hand following bathroom usage. Giardiasis usually affects smaller children between 1 and 5 years old but it can still affect older children. 

Symptoms may include:

• extreme diarrhea ·        
• loss of appetite·        
• fever·        
• nausea·        
• dehydration ·        
• headache·        
• exhaustion 

Depends on the age but it’s imperative to ensure proper rehydration and replenishing electrolytes as well with an electrolyte solution or a broth. Children are usually given medicine tinidazole and furazolidone. If symptoms persist, contact a doctor. 

Otitis Ear Infections

Children have smaller ear canals and are therefore more prone to ear infections. The most common being Otitis media, an inflammatory of the middle ear. There are two types: acute otitis media (AOM) which comes on abruptly with ear pain while otitis media with effusion (OME) is the late stage of the infection when mucous and fluid continues to build up in the middle ear.

Middle ear infections often stem from other infections such as cold in the respiratory tract that spreads to the ears. Often the Eustachian tube connecting the middle ear to the pharynx is blocked with bacteria-filled fluid. This is usually quite painful and should be taken seriously. 

Symptoms

Since these infections often hit very small children who can’t speak, it’s important to know the general symptoms:·        

• constant crying ·        
• unable to sleep·        
• red ears or earaches·        
• fever·        
• headache·        
• tugging at their ear·        
• vomiting·        
• diarrhea·        
• feeling the ear feeling full 

Treatment

Will vary according to the severity of the symptoms. It’s vital to see a doctor immediately to determine the best option for treatment. Most doctors will recommend over the counter medicine to reduce fever and control pain. However, if the symptoms last longer than three days, your doctor may recommend antibiotic – if the infection appears to be bacterial. Antibiotics will not treat a virus.  

General recommendations

There are some preventive measures to keep your young children healthy that include:·        

• Wash all food before eating.·        
• Wash your child's hands before eating.·        
• Keep your child’s living area clean     
• Give vitamins and natural supplements that help strengthen the immune system.