Oftentimes, it seems as if children catch illnesses more than adults and are more prone to different types of infections. In many ways, that is true. Children are often exposed to a wider range of people than the average adult because they spend so much time at school. Also, children tend to have sloppier hygiene practices, which exposes them to more viruses and bacteria. However, they also simply lack the context and the language to accurately express their discomfort sometimes. This means that they might be expressing to you a simple earache but not be able to distinguish it from an ear infection. Inversely, they might not know how to explain that they have an ear infection as opposed to a simple ache. You should talk with your family doctor and ask questions.
Viral or Bacterial?
When you are talking with your family doctor and explaining what your child’s symptoms are, you should ask if the illness is viral or bacterial. In the 21st century, more and more people have access to antibiotics but many people are abusing them. That’s leading to drug-resistant bacteria. Therefore, it’s important not to improperly use antibiotics, which are only useful against bacterial infections.
A viral infection such as the cold or flu cannot be treated with antibiotics. The symptoms can be treated and there are things that can make your child more comfortable but essentially, they’ll have to just let the virus run its course.
Rest or Exercise?
Sometimes, a family doctor might tell you to allow your child to rest as much as possible. Resting allows the body to focus on healing. However, getting the blood flowing and the heart rate slightly elevated can sometimes make you feel better as well. Therefore, you should ask about resting or exercising when your kid is ill. Sometimes, you should encourage your child to take a walk or play outside to help speed up the healing; sometimes, it would just exacerbate the symptoms. You can visit the North American Emergency Medical Center to ask about these things. You can also connect them on Facebook for more updates.
