Describe the common childhood ailments
1. Cold and flu: Common symptoms include runny nose, cough, fever, and sore throat. It is usually caused by a virus and can be easily spread through coughing and sneezing.
2. Ear infections: Often caused by bacteria or viruses, ear infections can be painful and can cause temporary hearing loss. Symptoms include ear pain, trouble sleeping, and fever.
3. Stomach viruses: Also known as gastroenteritis, stomach viruses can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. They are usually caused by viruses like norovirus or rotavirus.
4. Asthma: Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes difficulty breathing and wheezing. It often appears in childhood and can be triggered by allergens or respiratory infections.
5. Allergies: Common allergens include pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. Allergies can cause symptoms like sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, and hives.
6. Chickenpox: A viral infection that causes an itchy rash with small, fluid-filled blisters. Chickenpox is highly contagious but is usually mild in children.
7. Hand, foot, and mouth disease: A viral infection that causes a red rash on the hands, feet, and mouth. It can also cause fever, sore throat, and loss of appetite.
8. Pinkeye: Also known as conjunctivitis, pinkeye is a common eye infection that causes redness, itching, and discharge. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or allergies.
9. Croup: A viral infection that causes swelling and narrowing of the airways, leading to a barking cough and difficulty breathing. Croup is common in young children.
10. Head lice: Small insects that live on the scalp and feed on blood. Head lice can cause itching and small red bumps on the scalp. They are easily spread through head-to-head contact.