Children are more likely to develop certain conditions, including infections. They are often around germs when they go to school or day-care. Additionally, their immune systems are not yet fully formed, which means that they are less able to fight off germs.
Symptoms of genetic diseases, which are present from birth, may also appear during childhood. Additionally, other conditions — such as asthma or certain types of cancer — are more common in children.
Childhood diseases can cause many symptoms. Childhood infections like varicella, measles, mumps, rotavirus, whooping cough, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), ear infections, or pink eye may lead to:
Asthma, a common childhood condition, may lead to coughing, wheezing, and breathing problems. Seasonal allergies, which often occur alongside asthma, may lead to a runny nose or red eyes, while food allergies may cause a swollen face or throat or itchy bumps (hives).
Your child may have a developmental disorder if they reach developmental milestones later than usual. For example, your child may have a harder time than expected moving, communicating, playing, or adapting to change. Learning disabilities can also make it harder for your child to read, write, or do math.
Children can also experience mental health disorders such as anxiety, which may cause extreme fears or worries, or depression, which may be accompanied by symptoms like sadness, irritability, behaviour problems, or sleepiness.
Infections are caused when a germ such as a bacteria or virus spreads from one person to another.
Many childhood conditions are related to genes passed down within families. If your child has a family member — especially a parent or sibling — with a certain disease, your child’s risk of being diagnosed with that disease may be higher.
Talk to your paediatrician to learn more about whether your child is at risk of developing any conditions based on their individual health factors.
Your child should go to the paediatrician regularly. This doctor can make sure your child is developing normally and identify potential symptoms or health changes.
Experts generally recommend that you take your child to the doctor at around the following ages:
After the age of one, you should take your child in for paediatrician visits every four to six months.
These are general recommendations — your paediatrician may suggest an alternate schedule based on your child’s needs. Make sure to attend all of these visits and ask your paediatrician about any potential symptoms of childhood diseases.
Not all childhood diseases can be prevented. However, you can help keep your child healthy. Make sure they get the following recommended amounts of sleep during each 24-hour period, including naps:
Additionally, feed your child healthy foods from a variety of food groups, including fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Make sure they are physically active throughout the day.
Help prevent common infections by teaching your child to regularly wash their hands, and get them vaccinated against common childhood diseases.
You should also help your child brush their teeth twice per day and floss once each day to keep their teeth and gums healthy.
Protect your child’s mental health by teaching them how to deal with emotions or social problems in a healthy way. Additionally, give them outlets for their stress.