In a perfect world, children would never get sick. Unfortunately, though, illness is an unavoidable part of growing up. Children get sick often, and managing sickness at home can be stressful and challenging, especially for new parents. Familiarizing yourself with some of the more common illnesses that infants and toddlers experience can help you prepare to comfort, soothe, and nurse your child back to health.
Common Infant Illnesses
A variety of ailments can affect babies, including viral or bacterial infections, respiratory illness, and skin issues. Some specific illnesses that are common in infants and small children include:
- Common cold
- Ear infections
- Bronchiolitis
- Hand-foot-mouth disease
- Gastroenteritis
- Abdominal distension
- Colic
- Chickenpox
- Diaper rash (diaper dermatitis)
- Heat rash
- Cradle cap
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Symptoms of infant illness can include fever, rashes, dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, or breathing problems. When an infant isn’t feeling well, parents might also notice changes in the baby’s behavior, daily routines, and feeding patterns. Fussiness, sleepiness, fever, and even changes in skin color can be common.
Home Remedies and Comfort Measures for Managing Sickness at Home
When your baby is ill, it can be very stressful, but parents shouldn’t feel helpless. There are lots of things you can do at home to provide comfort and manage your child’s sickness.
For Fever and Discomfort
- Extra rest supports the immune system, helping the body fight infection.
- A lukewarm bath can help bring down a fever.
- Wet washcloths on the chest, tummy, neck, or underarms can also help cool and comfort a feverish baby.
- Infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce a fever, but caregivers should first consult their baby’s doctor.
For Congestion
- Humidity from a cool-mist humidifier or a steamy bathroom can help loosen mucus.
- Saline drops can moisten nasal passages and soften mucous for gentle removal with a bulb syringe.
- Keeping a baby’s head slightly elevated (as long as they are over six months of age) will help drain mucus.
For Upset Stomach
- A gentle abdominal massage and rocking can help alleviate gas pains.
- Warm water, broth, or chamomile tea (for children over twelve months of age) can soothe the stomach.
For Hydration
- Hydration is crucial for supporting proper bodily function during illness.
- Continuously offer infants breast milk or formula.
It’s important to note that, generally, infants under two years of age should not use cough or cold medications. If you have any concerns about your child’s at-home care, please contact our office for guidance.
Building a Baby First Aid Kit
Putting together a baby’s first aid kit will ensure you have the supplies you need on hand when your baby needs them. A baby’s first aid kit should include:
- Baby Thermometer – for taking your baby’s temperature
- Saline Nasal Drops and Nasal Aspirator – for softening mucus and clearing your baby’s nasal passages
- Cotton Balls – for cleaning sensitive areas
- Petroleum Jelly and Gauze – for wound care and protection
- Adhesive Bandages – for wound care
- Infant Acetaminophen – for fever reduction and safe, effective relief from teething pain
- Tweezers – for safely removing stingers or splinters
When to Call the Doctor
We encourage parents to call the doctor any time they are worried about their infant’s well-being. When in doubt, get a professional opinion and professional advice.
Signs that you should seek immediate medical attention include:
- A fever of 100.4 degrees F or higher in infants less than 12 months old. For older kids this isn’t necessary as long as the child does not have any of the other symptoms listed here)
- Difficulty breathing or pauses in breathing
- Unusual skin color (like pale gray, pale blue, or jaundice)
- A purplish, red, or spotty rash
- Limpness or floppiness
- Not responding normally
- Refusal to eat or drink
- Incessant vomiting or diarrhea
- Severe, inconsolable crying
If your child’s symptoms worsen or for any other reason, you are concerned about your baby’s health, do not wait to seek medical attention.
Our Pediatricians Are Here to Support You and Help Your Child Feel Better Soon
If you ever feel unsure or worried about your child’s health, do not hesitate to call our office for advice, an urgent appointment, or to schedule a sick child appointment. When it comes to your child’s health and well-being, it is always better to err on the side of caution.
Unfortunately, infant and childhood illnesses are an unavoidable part of parenthood, but being properly informed and prepared can help you help your child get well sooner. Always remember that our pediatricians are here to help, support, and guide you, and we encourage you to explore the resources available on our website, which offer guidance on caring for a sick child and additional information regarding when to contact a doctor.
To learn more about managing your baby’s sickness at home, we welcome you to contact Children’s Wellness Center.
