12 Common Childhood Illnesses - Wake Forest Pediatrics

 

According to Wake Forest

Common cold Ear infections Influenza Bronchitis RSV Hand, foot, and mouth disease Conjunctivitis Gastroenteritis Strep throat Sinus infections Chickenpox Urinary tract infections 

These illnesses can be caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria, and they can range in severity from mild to severe. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of these illnesses so that you can seek medical attention if your child becomes sick.

Here is a brief overview of each illness:

Common cold: The common cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. It is the most common childhood illness, and most children will get 6-8 colds per year. Symptoms of the common cold include runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and sore throat. Ear infections: Ear infections are another common childhood illness. They are caused by bacteria or viruses tha4t get tr

apped in the middle ear. Symptoms of an ear infection include ear pain, fever, and drainage from the ear. Influenza: The flu is a serious viral infection of the respiratory system. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches, and fatigue.

 In some cases, the flu can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia. Bronchitis: Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from the lungs. It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or allergens. Symptoms of bronchitis include cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath. RSV: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that can cause respiratory infections in children of all ages. Symptoms of RSV infection include fever, cough, runny nose, and wheezing. In severe cases, RSV infection can lead to pneumonia or bronchiolitis. Hand, foot, and mouth disease: Hand, foot, and mouth disease is a common viral infection in young children. It is caused by a coxsackievirus. Symptoms of hand, foot, and mouth disease include fever, sore throat, and blisters on the hands, feet, and mouth. Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that lines the eyelids and covers the whites of the eyes. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergens. Symptoms of conjunctivitis include red, itchy eyes, and discharge from the eyes. 

Gastroenteritis: Gastroenteritis, also known as the stomach flu, is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is usually caused by a virus, but it can also be caused by bacteria or parasites. Symptoms of gastroenteritis include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Strep throat: Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat. It is caused by a group A streptococcus bacteria. Symptoms of strep throat include sore throat, fever, difficulty swallowing, and swollen glands in the neck. Sinus infections: Sinus infections are infections of the sinuses, which are hollow cavities in the skull. They can be caused by bacteria or viruses. Symptoms of a sinus infection include facial pain and pressure, drainage from the nose, and congestion. Chickenpox: Chickenpox is a viral infection that causes a rash of itchy blisters. It is highly contagious and can be spread from person to person through contact with the rash or airborne droplets from the mouth or nose of an infected person. Urinary tract infections (UTIs): UTIs are infections of the urinary tract, which includes the bladder, kidneys, ureters, and urethra. They are most common in young girls and women. Symptoms of a UTI include painful urination, frequent urination, and cloudy urine. 

If you are concerned that your child may have one of these illnesses, it is important to contact your pediatrician. They can diagnose the illness and r7ecommend the best course of treatment.