It is the time of year when all the kids get sick and the parents too. Though these illnesses are usually harmless they can cause quite a lot of stress at the time. 

It is the time of year when all the kids get sick and the parents too.
Though these illnesses are usually harmless they can cause quite a lot of stress at the time. With sleepless nights and moaning kids one of the effects of illnesses, it can be great to have some insights on them.
Here are some of the most common illnesses your child will probably get:
1. Common Cold
This is about as common as they come, and children can catch a cold a few times a year. They are a pain and they make your little one miserable for a time though they are usually harmless.  
  • Treat the mild fever, congestion, coughing, and a sore throat with lots of fluids and rest. Consult a doctor if your child is under 6 months old and for older kids, consult your doctor or chemist for advice on what medications you may give your child.
  • Use saline drops or spray for your child's nasal passage as the nasal area being blocked can cause lots of discomfort for your nipper.
  • Lots of rest is needed too so let your child sleep when they can though this may throw their routine around. It will take time for them to return to normal, but rest is needed to let the body recover.
2. Influenza
The flu is a terrible illness that takes every ounce of energy out of people it hits. Expect it to take time for your child to recuperate and ensure you act if your child is not recovering as they should be. Remember the flu is quite different from the common cold.
Treat as the cold above and consult your doctor or chemist if needed.
Give your child lots of time to rest and as your child will feel so miserable they may be in bad form too. Try watch movies with them or cuddle up next to them to reassure them.
3. Gastroenteritis
This is the type of illness that sends parents into a blind panic as if one kiddie gets it you can be sure everyone will nearly get it in the house. It is terribly tiring on families and there is no way to escape it. Causing huge stomach pain and vomiting or/and diarrhoea it is a sickness that comes quickly and thankfully, goes rapidly too. In most cases, it is gone in 24 hours or at the very least a few days.  
  • Get your child to rest
  • Watch for signs of dehydration
  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Offer food but give your child time to recover before they eat. A good start is some light meals including toast, yoghurts or crackers. Be aware that your child may not want to eat much.
  • Watch for a temperature and call the doctor if you are worried
4. Chicken Pox
The dreaded chicken pox is something no parent wants to think about. It causes an itchy rash and red spots all over the body later, but the first signs are a headache, a cough and a sore throat. It can take up to 10 days until a person is no longer contagious.
  • Consult your chemist if your child is very upset with the chicken pox and while there ask about some cooling gel or lotions for your child’s itchy skin.
  • Cut your kiddies nails so they can’t scratch and if they are old enough explain about scarring.
  • Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids and if they are not eating well again, ask your chemist for advice.
May health be on your side!
Emma Hayes is a thirty-something mum of two girls aged 16 and 10, planting her right into the teenage and tween-age years! Follow her on Twitter at @EmmaHayes25.

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