A Parent’s Guide to Common Childhood Illnesses
No parent wants to see their child suffer through sickness. Luckily, most common childhood illnesses, such as fevers, coughs and rashes, are manageable with the right care.
Understanding what’s normal, what to watch for and when to call the doctor can help you feel more confident that you're taking the best possible care of your child. And if you’re ever unsure, a trusted pediatrician can guide you and provide care when your child needs it most.
What is a Fever?
A fever is typically defined as a body temperature of 100.4° or higher. It’s not an illness itself, but a sign that your child’s body is fighting an infection, such as a cold or flu.
A fever literally turns up the heat on your child's immune system and raises their body temperature above 98.6°. The increased heat creates a hostile environment that kills bacteria and infections. If your child’s temperature reaches or exceeds 100.4°, they have a fever.
Most fevers are caused by a virus or bacteria. Other less-common causes of fever include:
- Autoimmune disorders
- Cancer
- Certain medications, including some antibiotics, seizure and blood pressure medicines
- Heat-related illness
- Some immunizations
Taking your child’s temperature
There are several ways to take your child’s temperature. However, rectal and oral thermometers tend to provide the most accurate results. Ear and forehead measurements may be more convenient, but they can produce inaccurate temperature readings.
Never use a mercury thermometer. Mercury is poisonous and can seriously harm your child’s health if they come into contact with it.
How to treat a fever
Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are effective for reducing your child's fever and relieving many symptoms associated with a raised temperature and infection. Never give your child aspirin. Aspirin can cause a serious childhood disease called Reye syndrome.
Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids. Water, clear soup, popsicles and gelatin are all good choices to prevent dehydration. Dress your child in comfortable clothing and avoid overdressing, which can trap body heat and raise their temperature.
When is it time to call the doctor?
Use the following guides to determine if your child needs medical attention:
- If your child is under 3 months old, any fever higher than 100.4° is considered an urgent health issue. Call your child’s doctor right away.
- If your child is 3–12 months old and their fever reaches 102° or lasts for more than 24 hours, it’s time to contact your pediatrician.
- In older children, fevers up to 103° are not usually emergencies. Focus on how your child feels or behaves to help decide if it’s time to call their doctor.
Regardless of your child’s age, call their doctor if they have a fever and:
- Are listless, confused or don’t make eye contact
- Have a seizure associated with a fever
- Have other symptoms, including headache, upset stomach or sore throat
- Vomit repeatedly
Understanding Coughs and Colds
The average adult has an average of two to three colds accompanied by a cough per year. And, as any parent can tell you, most children have even more than that.
More than 200 different viruses can cause a cold or cough, but the most common is the rhinovirus. The viruses that cause colds are highly contagious. They spread by air and through close personal contact. Many can last 7 – 10 days before symptoms are completely gone.
Symptoms of a cold include:
- Cough
- Headache
- Mild fever
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
How to treat a cough or cold
There is no cure for the common cold, but several treatments can help your child feel better. Most importantly, make sure they get plenty of rest and stay hydrated.
Other home remedies for cough and cold include:
- Saline drops
- Gentle nose suction for infants
- Cool-mist humidifier
- Over-the-counter medication, depending on your child’s age
When is it time to call the doctor?
Most colds improve gradually, as your child’s fever drops and their cough grows less severe. However, your child may need medical attention if they experience:
- A cough that lasts longer than two weeks
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent high fever
- Signs of dehydration
- Wheezing or chest tightness
Rashes: What to Look For and How to Respond
Rashes are a common childhood ailment. They can appear suddenly, and they may not always have an obvious cause. Although some rashes may look concerning, many are harmless and clear up on their own with minimal effort.
Common types of rashes
Children can develop a variety of rashes for different reasons. Some of the most common include:
- Heat rash – appears as small red bumps in warm or sweaty areas
- Eczema – causes dry, itchy or inflamed skin
- Contact dermatitis – caused by a reaction to irritants like soaps, detergents or plants
What to look for
Not all rashes are the same. Paying attention to specific details can help you better understand what’s going on. Watch for other symptoms, such as fever, itching or pain.
These details can help you better understand what’s causing the rash and whether it needs medical attention:
- Location – where the rash appears, such as the face, diaper area or skin folds
- Appearance – how the rash looks and feels, including whether it’s smooth, raised, blistered or scaly
- Spread – track whether the rash is spreading or staying in one place
What causes rashes?
Your child can develop a rash for several reasons, including:
- Allergic reactions
- Viral infections
- Skin irritation or dryness
- Heat and sweat
How to treat a rash
Many mild rashes can be managed at home with simple care. Try to keep the affected area clean and dry, and use gentle, fragrance-free products on your child’s skin. Moisturizers can help relieve dryness or irritation. Keep your child from scratching to help prevent the rash from getting worse.
When is it time to call the doctor?
While most rashes are not serious, some may need medical attention. Contact your child’s doctor if your child’s rash:
- Appears with a fever or other illness symptoms
- Spreads or gets worse quickly
- Is painful and causes significant discomfort
- Shows signs of infection, such as swelling or warmth
Pediatric Care You Can Count On
When your child isn’t feeling well, a trusted pediatrician can make all the difference. At Witham Pediatrics, our team of specialists partners with you to provide preventive care, treatment for common childhood illnesses and offer support for your child’s healthy development.
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