As a parent, few things are more distressing than seeing your child fall sick. Childhood infections are a frequent concern for parents, especially during the early years when children’s immune systems are still developing. Understanding the most common infections and how to manage them can help you take better care of your child’s health and know when to seek professional help.
In this blog, Dr. Abhimanyu Sengupta, a leading Senior Pediatrician in Aundh, Pune, shares valuable insights into common childhood infections, their symptoms, and available treatments.
Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs)
Examples: Common cold, flu, sinusitis, pharyngitis
Symptoms: Runny nose, cough, sore throat, mild fever, sneezing
Treatment: Most URTIs are viral and resolve on their own. Treatment includes rest, fluids, paracetamol for fever, and saline nasal drops. Antibiotics are not needed unless there's a secondary bacterial infection.
Ear Infections (Otitis Media)
Symptoms: Ear pain, irritability, trouble sleeping, fever, fluid discharge from the ear
Treatment: Mild cases are managed with pain relief and monitoring. Persistent or severe infections may require antibiotics. Recurrent infections may need an ENT referral.
Gastroenteritis
Caused by: Viruses (like rotavirus), bacteria, or parasites
Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, dehydration
Treatment: Oral rehydration is crucial. Avoid anti-diarrheal medications unless prescribed. Antibiotics are rarely needed and only for specific bacterial infections.
Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)
Symptoms: Fever, painful mouth sores, and a rash on the hands and feet
Treatment: It's a viral infection that usually resolves in 7–10 days. Treatment focuses on pain relief, hydration, and maintaining oral hygiene.
Chickenpox (Varicella)
Symptoms: Itchy red spots that turn into blisters, fever, fatigue
Treatment: Antihistamines for itching, paracetamol for fever (avoid aspirin), and antiviral medications in severe cases or in children with weak immunity.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Symptoms: Red, itchy eyes, tearing, discharge
Treatment: Viral conjunctivitis is self-limiting; bacterial cases may require antibiotic eye drops. Encourage hygiene to prevent the spread.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Symptoms: Pain while urinating, fever, abdominal pain, foul-smelling urine
Treatment: Confirmed by urine tests and treated with a course of antibiotics. Adequate fluid intake helps flush out the infection.
Tonsillitis and Strep Throat
Symptoms: Sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, swollen lymph nodes
Treatment: Throat swabs confirm bacterial infection. Antibiotics may be required for strep throat; otherwise, symptomatic care is sufficient.
When to See a Pediatrician?
Prevention Tips:
Expert Pediatric Care in Aundh, Pune
Dr. Abhimanyu Sengupta brings years of experience in diagnosing and treating common childhood infections with a patient-centered, compassionate approach. Located in Aundh, Pune, his clinic offers comprehensive pediatric care, vaccination, and guidance for every stage of your child’s development.
Book an appointment today to ensure your child stays healthy and protected.
AboutMyClinic