Sore throat is a very common reason for children to visit the doctor. Most sore throats are caused by viruses and require only comfort care. Parents often worry that their child’s symptoms are from strep throat and require antibiotics. While the only way to confirm that a sore throat is from strep, not all sore […]
Many parents wonder if they should get the flu shot for their children each fall. In almost every case, the answer is YES! The flu shot protects against influenza. This is a very serious virus that causes high fever, severe cough and congestion, body aches, and general misery. It also has a high rate of
Most of the time a child is sick, he or she does not need an antibiotic. The vast majority of childhood illness are caused by viruses, which do not respond to antibiotics. If your child has a virus, antibiotics cannot make them better. Viral illnesses include all colds as well as the flu and most cases of
Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious illness caused by the bacteria Bordatella pertussis. It is spread from person to person, usually through coughing or sneezing. The bacteria, which only infects humans, releases toxins which damage the respiratory tract. Pertussis usually starts with symptoms that are identical to the common cold: congestion, runny nose,
Facts and Stats on Measles Due to a recent outbreak, measles has been in the news lately. This once common viral illness is now less common if not rare as a result of the widespread use of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Unfortunately, with vaccination rates declining, measles and other preventable illnesses are
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The differences between the Stomach Flu and the Influenza “Flu” People often get confused about the difference between the stomach flu and influenza. Stomach Flu The stomach flu actually refers to gastroenteritis or irritation and inflammation of the stomach and intestines (the gastrointestinal tract). Signs and symptoms of gastroenteritis usually consist of vomiting and diarrhea,
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Eczema is a chronic disease of the skin causing dry, itchy, irritated skin. Many infants and children diagnosed with eczema, also have hay fever, food allergies and asthma. The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but the condition tends to run in families. Occasionally, certain triggers will make eczema worse. Triggers may be certain foods,
It’s that time of year again. Back to school with new teachers, new clothes, and new germs. It’s common for children returning to school to come home with more than homework. Coughs, colds, and stomach bugs can sweep across schools quickly. They can also take down an entire household when a child brings home a
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What is asthma? Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the lungs. Asthma causes inflammation in the lungs and narrows the airways. Symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, and coughing; which are common in an asthma attack. Symptoms are usually worse at night and in the early morning or in response to
