Common Childhood Illnesses

Common Illnesses Your Child May Get

As your child grows up, they may experience illness, especially when they enter school. If you know the common childhood illnesses, it helps to put your mind at ease.

Dr. Patricia Jorquera of TLC Pediatrics, located in Norwalk, CT, and her excellent pediatric staff are willing to take the time to speak with you and answer any questions you have regarding your child's signs and symptoms of illness. 

What Are Common Illnesses?

Listed below are commonly expected childhood illnesses. 

• Common Cold - Common cold symptoms could be a runny nose, a cough, and congestion lasting up to ten days. A cold does not need an antibiotic. If your child runs a fever or their congestion changes color, they may not have a cold but a sinus infection. Treatment would include supportive care, such as medication for their fever.
• Ear Pain - There can be many causes of ear pain. The best way to diagnose ear pain is to make an appointment with our doctor. All ear pain doesn't need antibiotics. If our doctor determines that a virus caused the ear pain, it must run its course. Supportive care, such as pain meds, can help make your child more comfortable.
• Sore Throat - According to Dr. Jorquera of TLC Pediatrics, located in Norwalk, CT, a sore throat doesn't always mean your child has Strep Throat. Our doctor may treat a sore throat with pain medication, cool food, and drinks. If your child's sore throat doesn't lessen within 7–10 days or worsens with a fever, it's always best to get a Strep test performed in our office.
• Bacterial Sinusitis - As evidenced by its name, this disease is caused by bacteria. You can start thinking your child has a cold, but the illness will progress with thick yellow or green discharge and coughing. If your child still has symptoms with no improvement a week later, please schedule a doctor's appointment, as they may need antibiotics.
• We see bronchiolitis in young children during the flu season. This illness is a virus and needs to run its course. Your child may be wheezing, and you must monitor for difficulty breathing, eating, and drinking adequate amounts. If the illness doesn't lessen within seven days, please make an appointment with our doctor to devise a different treatment plan.

Seeking a Quality Pediatric Doctor?

As with most childhood illnesses, the virus involved needs to run its course, meaning that as parents, you can offer supportive care and make sure your child is drinking and eating adequate amounts.

Dr. Jorquera of TLC Pediatrics, located in Norwalk, CT, will be available for appointments to see your child. Call (203) 855-7551 to schedule an appointment.