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Over-the-counter medications for colds, such as decongestants and antihistamines, are not recommended for children under 6 years of age. If your child is under 6 and you have questions on how to help their cold symptoms, please contact our office to speak to one of our nurses. Cold and influenza infections are caused by viruses which do not respond to antibiotics. These viruses can last 10-14 days during which the body will develop immunity to the virus. This will prevent future infection of this specific virus. Most over-the-counter cold remedies do not help your child get over the illness and are not recommended for children under 6 years of age. Our physician discourage the use of acetaminophen/cold or ibuprofen/cold combinations as it is often difficult to prescribe the appropriate dose. Ask our staff which medications we recommend for your child's cold symptoms. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen is fine to use to help reduce your child's fever and to make them more comfortable. Please make sure you are giving the appropriate medication and dose for your child's age and weight. Ibuprofen is not recommended for babies under 6 months of age. Constipation Symptoms of constipation include pain or crying during a bowel movement, straining or pushing longer than 10 minutes, or 3 or more days without a bowel movement. Causes can include high milk or cheese diet, low fiber diet, stool holding, or slow gastrointestinal transit time (which is a genetic condition). It can be normal for young infants to strain or grunt and their face may become red while pushing during a bowel movement. Large BMs can be normal and is related to the amount of food consumed and may not indicate constipation. Hard or dry BMs can be normal if passed easily without straining and increasing fiber in the diet can help soften stools. Once children are on a regular diet after age 1, the normal range for BM frequency is 3 times per day to once every two days. Treatment in children over age 1 is to increase fiber in the diet by including more fruits and vegetables. Also increase whole grain foods such as bran flakes, bran muffins, oatmeal, graham crackers, brown rice and whole wheat bread. Popcorn can be tried if the child is older than 4 years old. Be aware that bananas and applesauce can be constipating. Encourage a regular bowel pattern by sitting the child on the toilet for 10 minutes after meals, especially breakfast. You can have your child sit in warm water to help them relax their bottom. Babies can be helped by holding the knees against the chest to stimulate squatting. You should call our office if constipation continues after making the recommended dietary changes, your child becomes worse, your child is having abdominal pain, your child is vomiting, blood is present in or on the stool, your child is acting weak, or if there is significant bleeding from a anal tear. Note that it is normal for infants who are breastfed and are older than one month of age to begin to have infrequent BMs every 4-7 days. Internet safety for your child INTERNET SAFETY FOR YOUR CHILD; Allergies -Symptoms of allergies can include clear nasal discharge with sneezing, sniffing and nasal itching. Eyes that are watery, itchy and puffy can also be symptoms of allergies. Other symtoms can include tickling, scratching sensation in the back of the throat, hoarse voice, itchy ear canals and skin, ear and sinus congestion. Allergy symptoms do not include fever, if your child is running a fever they are likely suffering from a viral or bacterial illness. Most common pollens that cause allergy symptoms are grass tree and ragweed. Common allergens can be from cats, dogs, horses , rabbits and other animals.
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