Problems in Babies and Young Childen

Temperatures

Feverish illnesses in babies and toddlers are very common and it can be difficult knowing when to seek medical advice, especially with your first child! Dress your child in cool clothes and give plenty of cool drinks. Calpol or Disprol (both containing Paracetamol) are the most useful 'over the counter' medicines for babies and children. They are good pain killers for headaches, earache, sore throats and muscle pain and their effect in lowering temperatures in babies can be magical. Dosages can be repeated up to 4 times a day as follows: 3-12 months 2.5mls, 1-2 years 5mls; over 2 years 10mls. These medicines can be bought cheaply without prescription.

If your child's condition is worsening despite paracetamol or he appears particularly ill, you should seek advice from your doctor. You will not harm children by bringing them to the surgery with a temperature - in fact, fresh air often makes a feverish child a little better.

Diarrhoea & Vomiting

Providing your child's general condition is reasonable you should start treatment by avoiding solid food and milky drinks for 12-24 hours. To prevent dehydration you must replace fluids by giving frequent small amounts of some clear fluid. Flat, diluted lemonade or cola is a good fluid to start with or drinks made from rehydration sachets are even better (e.g. Rehidrat, Dioralyte or Electrolade). Consult your GP if things are not settling.