Whooping Cough Essay

Submitted By Rash-Kap
Words: 3148
Pages: 13

No.

Illnesses

Sign and Symtomns

Remedies and Cures
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1.
Whooping Cough

This is a viral infection. Whooping Cough begins like a common cold and cough. The cough gradually gets worse and coughing bouts begin. These are exhausting and can make it difficult to breathe ad cause choking and vomiting. The child may also have a slight fever, runny nose, aches and pains and feel generally run down. They may also be very tired as coughing may keep them awake at night.
Whooping Cough can be very dangerous in babies – it is rare however as immunisation in now routine. A severe attack can damage the lungs and cause bronchial infections. Vomiting can also cause dehydration.
A doctor should treat Whooping Cough. Antibiotics will be prescribed and close relatives and friends may also have to take them.
To help the child through Whooping Cough, be patient. When a coughing bout occurs help them by patting them on the back as this loosens the mucus. Offer plenty of fluids and meals should be small and frequent and soft!
Whooping Cough is very dangerous for babies or small children – sleep in the same room as them.
AVOID contact with other babies or small children.

2.
Chickenpox

This is a contagious disease most common between the ages of 2 and 4. It lasts about two weeks and causes red blister-like scabs over the body. They will appear on the tummy first and spread to the arms and legs.
The child will feel unwell and may have a temperature. The spots will be itchy - try NOT to let the child scratch them as this can cause scaring.

You can place calamine lotion onto the spots. In babies leave their nappy off as long as possible. Cut the child’s fingernails short to avoid scratching – maybe put on gloves if they will accept them. Give the child some paracetamol (remember to check the right dosage), and ensure they drink as much as possible.
DO NOT send the child to school and keep them AWAY from anyone who is pregnant.

3.
Constipation

Constipation begins once the bay is onto solid foods. To avoid constipation the child should be eating a healthy diet which includes fresh fruit and vegetables and a good daily intake of water.
If the child in constipated it can be very painful. They will have hard pebble-like stools, pain in the lower stomach and there may be blood in the nanny or underpants due to straining.

NEVER GIVE THE CHILD LAXATIVES unless advised by the doctor. These can be very harmful in the long term. Ensure the child eats food containing fibre (wholemeal bread, fruit, and bran cereals).
If the child is continually constipated see the doctor. There is a condition which prevents the proper contraction of the bowel wall due to a lack of nerve cells.

4.
Conjunctivitis

This is the inflammation of the membrane which covers the eyeball. The child may have a viral /bacterial infection or be allergic to something they have come into contact with.
The child’s eyes will feel red and sore, they will be itchy. Bright lights may be uncomfortable and after sleeping the eye may be sticky and difficult to open.

You should find out what is triggering the reaction – if it is an allergy the source needs to be found. Consult the doctor.

5.
Measles

The symptoms of measles are similar to a common cold. A child may catch measles simply by breathing in airborne moisture coughed out by an infected person.
The child will develop a fever, running nose, sore throat, cough and red eyes.
A few days late white spots will appear in the mouth.
Brown /red spots will then appear behind the ears and these may merge into a rash over the face and upper body.

You should call the doctor and give the child plenty of fluids
6.
Laryngitis

This is the inflammation of the larynx (voice box). The infection is caused by a bacteria or virus. It occurs in older children and adults. In smaller children and babies it is known as Croup.
Laryngitis is not serious and usually lasts about a week. The child will have a sore throat and dry cough. They