Common Children's Health Problems to Look Out For

Research shows that 37% of US children under 17 have at least one health condition. Even worse, 40% of children admit that their health issues impact their daily activities. A child is never too early or too old to struggle with one health issue or another. Your child's health is paramount, and understanding prevalent health problems is vital for early detection and timely intervention. Here are some common children's health issues you should look out for. 

Hand, foot, and mouth disease

Hand, foot, and mouth diseases (HFMD) in children are mostly not very serious but still require prompt attention. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that HFMD is common in infants and children younger than five. But older kids can also be infected. The main signs to look for include flu-like symptoms, mouth sores, fever, and skin rash, so keep this in mind. 

Worm infestation

Children are very active, playful, and curious, which exposes them easily to germs, and puts them at risk of various worm infestations. Some common cases of worm infestation include playing with infested garden soils that contain bacteria or eggs. They could also get infected by contracting germs in the playground or touching infested pets. Pinworm infection is the most common, with reports showing it's present in up to 50% of primary school children. Some warning signs to look out for include unexplained weight loss, wheezing, fever, loss of appetite, stomach pain, coughing, and worms in bowel movements. 

Ear infections

Ear infections are common in children, with most resolving within a week or two. However, it would be best if you didn’t ignore the signs when they show up. These infections can affect either the outer or inner part of the ear - or both, in some cases. Viruses or bacteria are the major culprits here, and earache and temporary hearing loss are the main signs you should pay attention to. Some ear infections can also cause high temperature, fever, and irritability. In most cases, you may notice the child rubbing or trying to pull the ear, with signs of visible pain. Don’t hesitate to take your child to hospital if you suspect any ear issues, so your little one can enjoy the benefits of early detection and treatment. 

Skin infections