Managing Common Childhood Illnesses
At Shelley Hub Family Practice, we understand that as a parent, your child’s health is your top priority. Children frequently encounter common illnesses as their immune systems develop, and knowing how to manage these conditions effectively can make a big difference. Our experienced GPs are here to guide you through symptom management, treatment options, and when to seek professional medical advice.
Here’s a quick guide to some of the most frequent illnesses we see in children at Shelley Hub Family Practice and how to handle them.
1. Colds & Flu
Symptoms: Runny nose, sneezing, cough, fever, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue.
What to Do: Ensure plenty of rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relief if needed (such as paracetamol for fever).
When to See a Doctor: If your child has difficulty breathing, a persistent high fever (above 39°C), or symptoms lasting more than 10 days.
2. Ear Infections
Symptoms: Ear pain, tugging at the ear, trouble hearing, fever, irritability, and fluid drainage.
What to Do: Warm compresses and pain relief may help; keep your child hydrated.
When to See a Doctor: If there is fluid or pus leaking from the ear, if the fever is high, or if pain persists beyond 48 hours.
3. Gastroenteritis (Stomach Bug)
Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, fever, and dehydration risk.
What to Do: Give small sips of water, oral rehydration solutions, and bland foods when tolerated. Avoid dairy and sugary drinks.
When to See a Doctor: If vomiting lasts more than 24 hours, there is blood in stools, signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no urination for 8+ hours), or if your child appears very weak.
4. Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease
Symptoms: Fever, sore throat, painful ulcers in the mouth, and a rash on hands, feet, or buttocks.
What to Do: Encourage hydration, offer soft foods, and give pain relief if needed.
When to See a Doctor: If ulcers make it hard to eat or drink, or if symptoms worsen after a few days.
5. Chickenpox
Symptoms: Itchy, red, blister-like rash, fever, and tiredness.
What to Do: Keep your child hydrated, trim nails to prevent scratching, and use calamine lotion or antihistamines to relieve itching.
When to See a Doctor: If blisters become infected (redness, swelling, pus), or if the fever is prolonged and high.
6. Asthma & Respiratory Issues
Symptoms: Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, and difficulty speaking in full sentences.
What to Do: Ensure your child uses their prescribed asthma inhaler or spacer. Keep them in a calm environment and monitor their breathing.
When to See a Doctor: If symptoms worsen, they are struggling to breathe, or they require their reliever more often than prescribed. Seek immediate medical attention if breathing becomes labored.