Children are prone to many diseases because their immune system, which is in charge of protecting them, is not entirely fit because it is still producing antibodies, which will defend them over time. Probably, your child has experienced or does a series of clinical manifestations that are usually confused with a common cold. You as a parent should know how to differentiate since often it consists of other alterations that require a different protocol. In any of the cases, it is essential that once you see that your child is not entirely healthy, you attend the pediatrician to determine the condition that he presents and what his treatment will be. On this occasion, the following article by FastlyHealwill tells you about the flu symptoms in children so that you are aware of what is happening.
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What is influenza
Influenza is commonly known as the flu. It is characterized by an infection produced by the influenza virus that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It begins as a mild disease that will later progress, leading to more severe conditions that affect both the upper and lower respiratory tract, such as pneumonia or even suffering from other complications, especially in children under five years of age.
It is a contagious disease that is transmitted through sneezing or coughing. It is different from a common cold, and it starts suddenly. It is a condition that disappears on its own in the vast majority of people; however, when influenza progresses chronically, it can be hazardous to the patient’s life.
The most at risk of suffering from this pathology are children under five years of age, although those under two years are more prone to complications. Likewise, adults over 60 years of age are more likely, as are pregnant women or those who have recently given birth, people with a weak immune system, obese, or those with chronic diseases, such as those that affect the upper respiratory tract, diseases of the heart, diabetes or kidney problems.
Flu Symptoms in Young Children
Initially, the symptoms that occur are similar to that of a common cold; that is, it begins with sneezing, a runny nose, and a sore throat. However, it differs in that the cold progresses slowly while the flu appears suddenly and abruptly.
At the time of infection, your child may not present all the symptoms, in addition to these being shared in other conditions, so it is recommended to perform a series of corresponding medical tests to determine the correct diagnosis.
Influenza is usually a very bothersome condition in which the child will feel bad. It is essential to consider the symptoms and signs that appear to take action on the matter since the complications that can occur are serious. The most common signs and symptoms of influenza in children are:
- Fever over 38º.
- Shaking chills.
- Headache.
- Muscle aches, specifically in the back, arms, and legs area.
- Sweating
- To.
- Fatigue.
- Soft spot.
- Mucus in the nose.
- Nasal tamponade.
- Throat pain.
- Vomiting and diarrhea (only in some children).
Advice in case of flu symptoms in children
- If you think your child has flu symptoms, you should tell him to rest, hydrate adequately and take him to the doctor, especially if he is under five years old. Remember that at this age, you are more prone to complications.
- If your child suffers from another problem such as diabetes, asthma, or neurological disorders, it is essential to see a doctor as soon as possible because the child is at higher risk of suffering from certain complications.
- Vaccinate your children to avoid the spread of the influenza virus.
- Being a very contagious disease, it is important to emphasize that your family environment must be vaccinated to prevent contagion.
- Wash your hands and your children’s hands constantly, especially before eating, coughing, or sneezing.
- Teach your child that when coughing or sneezing, they should not cover their mouth since the virus stays in that area and that when you touch another person, you can spread it.
- Constantly clean hard surfaces with detergent and disinfectant, as the virus lives for about two to eight hours, which can induce infection.
- Scratching your eyes, nose, or mouth with your hands is not recommended, as the virus can spread quickly.
- If your child is going to sneeze or cough, teach him to do this on towels or tissues.
Treatment of influenza in children
Influenza is one of the many diseases that can be avoided if parents take care to carry out the appropriate vaccination schedule, which in this case is usually done in the first year of life. However, if your child already has the flu, there is drug treatment, which consists of taking antiviral drugs, which are ideal for fighting the flu.
These medications prevent the virus, which is present in the child’s body, from multiplying. You can get it in different presentations such as pills, syrup, or to be inhaled. A doctor must indicate these drugs since they are not available over the counter, and you will need a prescription. Generally, the child should start treatment two days after acquiring the disease and continue it for at least five more days.
This article is merely informative, at FastlyHeal .com we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
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I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.