Frequently Asked Questions

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

THE PEDIATRICIAN ANSWERS

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

How can you recognize the different types of cough?

Coughing is not a disease, but a symptom caused by many different factors. Therefore, when someone has a cough, it is important to try to understand the cause of the problem. If there are other symptoms present (fever, congestion, phlegm, unusual sounds when listening to the chest), it is possible to suspectan infectious disease of the respiratory tract(flu, cold, acute bronchitis, pneumonia) oran allergic reaction(asthma). There are different types of cough, and knowing what type it is can help us identify the most likely disease. Coughs can be: dry, irritating, without phlegm in the case ofan initial viral infection, smoking, or allergy; catarrhal (a phase that usually follows the irritating phase); barking (seal or dog cough) in the case oflaryngitis; wheezing or whistling in the case ofasthma; convulsive (violent coughing fits) in the case ofwhooping cough. If a dry or catarrhal cough is accompanied by yellow or greenish mucus and lasts for more than two weeks,sinusitis should be suspected.

In young children, especially those who attend nurseries or preschools, particularly in the early years, catarrhal coughs during the winter months are a response to early viral infections (remember that there are more than 70 viruses that cause colds and that immunity to these infections is not permanent). If the child is lively, plays, eats, and rests regularly, even if they cough at night, there is no need to worry.

How to manage coughing in children?

Coughing is a symptom that bothers children (it prevents them from sleeping and sometimes causes vomiting) and worries parents, but it is actually a generally useful mechanism foreliminating phlegm. Phlegm (or mucus) is a sticky substance produced by certain glands in the respiratory tract. It is useful because it lubricates the respiratory tract and traps viruses, bacteria, irritants, and pollutants, facilitating their elimination by cells such as white blood cells.

Therefore, even thoughphlegmcan be annoying,itshould never be suppressed, but rather loosened to facilitate its elimination through coughing. Sometimes children vomit when they cough, and mucus may also be visible in the vomit. There is no need to be alarmed, as the child has eliminated the phlegm that had built up. Sometimes you may notice that mucus is also eliminated in the stool.

Is aerosol useful? 

It is important to help the child by facilitating the expulsion of phlegm, for example by making it more fluid. Water is the most important means of thinning mucus, so in the event of a cough, it is advisableto drink plenty of fluids, preferably warm(e.g., herbal teas or sweetened milk), performnasal washes with saline solution, and use a nebulizer with saline solution.Honey, administered in teaspoons after the first year of age, especially before bedtime, has a calming effect.

Is it also important to humidify the environment?

Yes, the ideal humidity level is 40-60%, without adding any balsamic substances, which can sometimes be irritating. Humidifying the environment is particularly useful in cases of barking cough: a steam-filled environment (for example, a bathroom with all the hot water taps turned on to the maximum) ensures optimal hydration of the respiratory tract.

Are the child or parents allergic to mold(dust mites)?

It is best not to humidify the environment so as not to encourage the proliferation of mites. It is important to ventilate rooms well: the air in the home must always be renewed.Eliminating exposure to smokeis an absolute basic rule. If you have a cough, you may need to suspend sporting activities, especially outdoors: inhaling fresh air quickly could trigger a coughing fit.

When should antibiotics be given?

As for commonly available cough suppressants (mucolytics), their effectiveness has not been proven. In fact, a recent note from the Ministry of Health advises against their use in children under two years of age. Other drugs act on the cough center at a central level (products containing codeine) and are absolutely not recommended for children. Only if the cough is very disturbing (nighttime cough that prevents the child from sleeping) can a non-central cough suppressant be used as needed, always on the advice of a pediatrician.

Normally, a catarrhal cough resolves itself within about ten days. In some cases, however, the phlegm may settle in the ear and bronchi, causing otitis or bronchitis. In these cases, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician to assess whether antibiotic treatment is necessary.

When should you take your child to see a doctor urgently?

An urgent visit to the pediatrician is necessary in the event of a cough accompanied by difficulty breathing and if the child appears to be in pain, if the child is young and unable to feed, if their lips turn blue during a coughing fit, or if they have had a high fever for several days.

What should you do when a child starts coughing?

When a child starts coughing, parents are overcome with anxiety, as the possible causes range from a common cold (as is often the case!) to whooping cough, laryngotracheitis, or the notorious bronchitis. Less frequently, coughing can be caused by more serious conditions such as bronchopneumonia or pleurisy.

There are many causes of coughs, but in this article we will examine the CAUSES OF COUGHS LASTING A FEW DAYS (also known as acute coughs, lasting less than 3 weeks). Long-lasting coughs (i.e., coughs that last continuously for more than 3 weeks) will be the subject of another article to be published on this site. Here are some useful tips to guide you while you wait to see your pediatrician!

Dry cough or wet cough?

It is useful to begin with an important distinction:

– Adry cough (or irritating cough)is a type of cough that occurs without any secretions and therefore does not "clear the throat"; it is often very annoying and sometimes continuous.

– Aproductive cough (or mucous cough)is a type of cough that has a specific purpose, namely to "loosen mucus" accumulated in the bronchi and lungs or, more often, in what most of you generically refer to as the "throat" (referring, to be precise, to the pharynx, larynx, and trachea together).

When should you suspect a simple cold?

A cold is certainly the most common cause of coughing in children, especially when the child is not yet able to blow their nose. Usually, when it is a simple cold, thecough isoftenproductiveand occurs mainly when the child is lying down (and therefore the mucus from the nose "falls" into the throat where it accumulates!); In an attempt to clear this mucus from their throat, children may start coughing violently in the middle of the night or early in the morning. These coughing fits can sometimes last for several hours and may culminate in vomiting mucus, possibly mixed with the previous evening's dinner. After the child has cleared this tangle of mucus from their throat, the cough usually calms down for a few hours and then resumes when a new accumulation forms.

When should tracheitis or laryngotracheitis be suspected?

These are other fairly common causes of coughing in children (but also in adults!) which, like colds, occur mainly when the weather is cold, the air is dry, and perhaps you uncover yourself at night or walk barefoot. Usually,the coughisinitially dry and irritating, tending to 'mature' and become mucous after 3-4 days; thecough is almost continuous and very annoying. The difference between tracheitis and laryngotracheitis is that the latter also involves the larynx (i.e., the narrowest part of the respiratory tract!), and here the cough usually takes on a typical "barking" sound (as if the child were barking!) or there is a lowering of the voice; sometimes breathing difficulties occur (laryngospasm, where the larynx "tightens" and closes!).

In most cases, since these infections are mostly viral, it is possible to achieve recovery with appropriate aerosol therapy, to be agreed with your pediatrician based on your child's characteristics, without necessarily having to resort to oral antibiotics. The pediatrician who examines the child will obviously decide, if necessary, the most appropriate time to start antibiotics. When the cough is very frequent and irritating, it is always advisable to have the child examined, as there may be other causes of the cough, some of which may be more serious and require more aggressive treatment (which we will continue to list below).

When should you suspect acute bronchitis?

Usually, with bronchitis, the cough is almost continuous and persistent, and can be either dry or productive, depending on the stage of the illness. Contrary to what many people think, bronchitis is also viral in most cases and can therefore heal spontaneously even without antibiotics! However, as it is an infection of the lower airways, it is more likely that bacterial superinfections will develop, requiring the use of antibiotics. It will therefore always be up to the pediatrician to assess, based on the examination and the child's characteristics, whether it is possible to wait a few days for spontaneous recovery without antibiotics or whether it is necessary to start appropriate antibiotics immediately.

When should you suspect asthmatic bronchitis?

These are forms in which, in addition to the production of bronchial mucus, there is also a tendency toward "bronchial closure" (in technical terms: bronchospasm or bronchostenosis). In these cases, it will certainly be useful to introduce, on the advice of your pediatrician.

When should you suspect whooping cough?

Despite the existence of vaccination, it is still possible for a child (and even an adult!) to contract whooping cough, as it has been shown that the vaccine's protection tends to wear off after 5-6 years (which is why a booster shot is given at around 5 years of age!). In the case of whooping cough, there is an initial phase(catarrhal)that is difficult to distinguish from a common cold, characterized by mucus in the upper respiratory tract, sometimes a slight fever, anda mucous cough. After a few days, the second phase(paroxysmal)sets in,characterized by violentbouts of dry, irritating coughing, often ending with the famous "whoop"(i.e., after a phase of apnea due to repeated coughing, the child quickly inhales air, generating a peculiar inspiratory noise). During the coughing fit, the child often appears to be in pain, with a swollen face, bloodshot eyes, and protruding tongue. Coughing fits occur with a frequency that can vary from 4-5 times a day (mild forms) to 40-50 times a day (severe forms), requiring hospitalization and oxygen therapy. They are sometimes triggered by trivial stimuli such as laughter or eating.

When should bronchopneumonia or pneumonia be suspected?

These are respiratory infections in which the deepest part of the respiratory tract (i.e., the lungs!) becomes infected and inflamed,thus becoming denserand leaving less space for air to enter. To clarify: imagine that the lungs are normally made up of millions of tiny "round chambers" (calledpulmonary alveoli) in which air continuously enters and exits. In the case of bronchopneumonia, these tiny "chambers" collapse in on themselves and there is less space for air to enter! If the pneumonia is very severe and extensive, the child may receive less oxygen and may require hospitalization. Lung thickening can occur in the initial part of these tiny chambers (interstitial pneumonia) or in the final and deepest part of these (lobar pneumonia).

Is fever always present in pneumonia?

ABSOLUTELY NOT. Although it is often present, fever is not a constant symptom, and it is not uncommon to see children (or even adults!) with pneumonia who have minimal or no fever at all!

Is it always necessary to give injections in cases of pneumonia? 

ABSOLUTELY NOT. It has been proven for years that oral antibiotics, when properly adjusted in dosage by your pediatrician, can completely CURE pneumonia... provided, of course, that the child cooperates and follows the treatment correctly! Otherwise, it is better to resort to injections.

Is an X-ray always necessary to confirm pneumonia? 

ABSOLUTELY NOT. In most cases, a simple pediatric examination is sufficient to detect pneumonia with a stethoscope and initiate appropriate antibiotic therapy. Your pediatrician may choose to perform a chest X-ray on your child (unfortunately exposing them to radiation!), especially in cases where a particularly severe form or complication is suspected during the examination, or if there is no improvement after 48 hours of appropriate treatment!

When is a chest X-ray useful in cases of coughing?

It is not always useful to perform a chest X-ray in the presence of coughing or other respiratory symptoms. The decision to subject a child to X-rays (a practice that is not without potential long-term damage!) must be made by a doctor based on the following criteria:

• Severity of symptoms
• Suspicion of complications
• Failure to respond to prescribed therapies
• Individual characteristics of the child (medical history, underlying conditions, etc.)

Should babies sleep on their side?

Unfortunately, even in the side position, studies and statistics show a higher incidence of cot death. If only because in the side position, the baby risks ending up face down during the night, unable to turn over. And if, in addition to cot death, we consider nighttime regurgitation again, imagining the baby in the photo below in a side position, it is clear that gravity in this position still does not work in the baby's favor, facilitating the entry of gastric material into the trachea. By keeping the baby in the supine position, once the gastric material has passed that point and reached the mouth, perhaps aided by a little coughing, the baby will instinctively turn only its head (and not its whole body!) to the side due to the discomfort it feels, facilitating its escape from the mouth.

NASAL WASHES: WHAT THEY ARE, WHAT THEY ARE USED FOR, AND WHO CAN USE THEM

LAVAGGI NASALI DONNA IN GRAVIDANZA Le problematiche di salute in gravidanza sono particolarmente noiosi e anche il più piccolo raffreddore è molto fastidioso perché, come ben sapete, non si possono assumere molti farmaci. Attenzione a non confondere però un raffreddamento con la rinite. I sintomi sono simili (naso chiuso, starnuti, prurito, occhi lacrimanti), ma l’origine è diversa. Questo disturbo colpisce il 60 percento delle donne in attesa. La rinite gravidica ha i sintomi di quelli di un raffreddore. I medici identificano questo malanno quando ci si trova in presenza di congestione nasale, ma non è in corso un’infezione né virale né batterica. E ovviamente si esclude anche l’origine allergica. La causa sono gli ormoni, che aumentano la vascolarizzazione e le secrezioni ghiandolari che causano il gonfiore della mucosa nasale e la sua congestione. È la stessa spiegazione che possiamo dare in caso di sanguinamento del naso, che come sapete in gravidanza è più frequente. Secondo gli esperti, si può assumere dell’acido ialuronico ad alto peso molecolare. L’effetto è abbastanza immediato: i sintomi migliorano velocemente e soprattutto si ha la sensazione di respirare meglio. Inoltre, l’acido ialuronico, che le donne già conoscono perché alla base di molti trattamenti di bellezza, è una sostanza naturale, presente nell’organismo e nella placenta. È di conseguenza innocuo per la mamma e per il bambino. Come sempre i responsabili sono gli ormoni, che sollecitano la mucosa del naso, la quale si gonfia e si congestiona. Non è un disturbo grave, considerando che durante la gestazione può dare davvero fastidio, ma poi al momento del parto scompare completamente. Ci sono casi, molto rari, che può provocare qualche lesione seria, per esempio ai turbinati, ovvero tre sporgenze ossee presenti nella fossa nasale. Quando si può manifestare? A partire dal primo trimestre (dalla decima settimana in poi) per tutta la gravidanza. Oltre all’innalzamento degli ormoni, questa situazione si crea anche per un incremento di flusso sanguigno (sappiamo che la produzione di sangue della mamma è decisamente più elevata del normale) a livello delle vie respiratorie. Non spaventatevi quindi se dovessero comparire anche episodi di epistassi. La cosa migliore comunque è quella di scegliere delle strade alternative, per ammorbidire le mucose e migliorare la respirazione. Usare i lavaggi nasali, un umidificatore nella stanza in cui dormite, potreste anche provare un aerosol con solo dell’acqua distillata. LAVAGGI NASALI NEONATO La salute del nasino è molto importante per i neonati, perché respirare bene è la prima difesa del bebè contro malesseri e infezioni; il naso non è solo un organo per il passaggio dell’aria ma anche un collegamento importante per tutte le vie respiratorie, quali orecchie, gola e seni paranasali. È evidente, quindi, che se il naso è disturbato dalla presenza di secrezioni ed infezioni non può funzionare bene, soprattutto nei neonati  nei quali i collegamenti tra naso ed altre parti sono ancora più diretti. Il naso ha anche la funzione di difendere l’organismo dalle aggressioni esterne, grazie alla mucosa, cioè il tessuto di rivestimento interno. Il nasino libero è un’ottima garanzia contro raffreddori e malattie delle vie respiratorie, infatti solo se la mucosa non è ostruita dal muco, può svolgere nel modo migliore il suo ruolo di difesa delle infezioni e delle irritazioni. Maggiori attenzioni devono essere prestati ai neonati perché fino al primo anno di età il piccolo respira quasi esclusivamente con il naso, e la sua ostruzione comporta lo scorretto apporto di ossigeno ai polmoni; inoltre, fino ai 3 anni di età il bambino non è in grado di soffiarsi il naso da solo, e quindi è più facile che il muco rimanga all’interno. Per tenere sempre pulito il nasino del bambini bisogna rimuovere il muco che si è formato, anche per facilitare il passaggio del virus e dei batteria gli organi confinanti. Il lavaggio consiste nell’introdurre nel naso del bambino un’apposita soluzione e farla passare da una narice all’altra, ammorbidendo le secrezioni e rimuovere il muco. LAVAGGI NASALI BAMBINO Il nasino pulito è presupposto fondamentale per la corretta respirazione del bambino e protegge il bebè contro i principali malesseri e le infezioni. Un eccesso di muco, infatti, può ostruire il naso e causare i tipici disturbi da raffreddamento e le infezioni delle vie respiratorie. Il naso è un organo  molto importante per i bambini, soprattutto i più piccoli: permette il passaggio, il riscaldamento ed il filtraggio dell’aria. E’ importante, quindi, che il naso sia sempre perfettamente pulito ed il muco in eccesso eliminato per non compromettere la funzionalità della mucosa nasale. Il modo più facile e diffuso per pulirsi il naso è soffiarselo spesso. I bambini, però, non sanno soffiarsi il naso ed imparano a farlo da soli solo verso i 6 anni. Per questo, ai bambini piccoli può essere utile effettuare i cosiddetti lavaggi nasali. Cosa sono i lavaggi nasali? I lavaggi nasali sono un metodo semplice ed efficace per mantenere pulito il nasino del bambino ed eliminare il muco in eccesso. Un lavaggio nasale consiste nell’immissione nel naso di una sostanza liquida, generalmente soluzione fisiologica nebulizzata, per pulire le fosse nasali ed eliminare il catarro stagnante. I lavaggi nasali sono molto importanti soprattutto per i neonati poichè respirano principalmente con il naso e sono più soggetti ad infezioni delle vie aeree. L’importanza del naso pulito per i lattanti emerge soprattutto durante la poppata: il bambino ha la bocca occupata e la respirazione con il nasino è l’unica possibile. Il lavaggio nasale libera il naso, elimina gli agenti infettivi e gli allergeni, combatte la secchezza delle mucose e impedisce al muco di raggiungere orecchie, tonsille, gola, faringe e bronchi. Come effettuare il lavaggio nasale? Per effettuare il lavaggio nasale, distendete il vostro bambino sul fasciatoio, sul letto o su una qualsiasi superficie. Piegate la testolina del bimbo da un lato, introducete l’erogatore della soluzione nella narice superiore e introducete il liquido nel naso. La soluzione passa, così, da una narice all’altra favorendo l’eliminazione del muco in eccesso. Ripetete l’operazione dall’altro lato, piegando la testa del bambino dall’altro lato. Dopo aver effettuato il lavaggio, alzate il bimbo per favorire la fuoriuscita del muco e pulite il naso del vostro bambino con un fazzolettino. Prima di riporre l’erogatore, sciacquatelo accuratamente sotto l’acqua calda ed asciugatelo bene. Può capitare che il naso del  bambino sia particolarmente chiuso e pieno di catarro.LAVAGGI NASALI DONNA IN GRAVIDANZA Le problematiche di salute in gravidanza sono particolarmente noiosi e anche il più piccolo raffreddore è molto fastidioso perché, come ben sapete, non si possono assumere molti farmaci. Attenzione a non confondere però un raffreddamento con la rinite. I sintomi sono simili (naso chiuso, starnuti, prurito, occhi lacrimanti), ma l’origine è diversa. Questo disturbo colpisce il 60 percento delle donne in attesa. La rinite gravidica ha i sintomi di quelli di un raffreddore. I medici identificano questo malanno quando ci si trova in presenza di congestione nasale, ma non è in corso un’infezione né virale né batterica. E ovviamente si esclude anche l’origine allergica. La causa sono gli ormoni, che aumentano la vascolarizzazione e le secrezioni ghiandolari che causano il gonfiore della mucosa nasale e la sua congestione. È la stessa spiegazione che possiamo dare in caso di sanguinamento del naso, che come sapete in gravidanza è più frequente. Secondo gli esperti, si può assumere dell’acido ialuronico ad alto peso molecolare. L’effetto è abbastanza immediato: i sintomi migliorano velocemente e soprattutto si ha la sensazione di respirare meglio. Inoltre, l’acido ialuronico, che le donne già conoscono perché alla base di molti trattamenti di bellezza, è una sostanza naturale, presente nell’organismo e nella placenta. È di conseguenza innocuo per la mamma e per il bambino. Come sempre i responsabili sono gli ormoni, che sollecitano la mucosa del naso, la quale si gonfia e si congestiona. Non è un disturbo grave, considerando che durante la gestazione può dare davvero fastidio, ma poi al momento del parto scompare completamente. Ci sono casi, molto rari, che può provocare qualche lesione seria, per esempio ai turbinati, ovvero tre sporgenze ossee presenti nella fossa nasale. Quando si può manifestare? A partire dal primo trimestre (dalla decima settimana in poi) per tutta la gravidanza. Oltre all’innalzamento degli ormoni, questa situazione si crea anche per un incremento di flusso sanguigno (sappiamo che la produzione di sangue della mamma è decisamente più elevata del normale) a livello delle vie respiratorie. Non spaventatevi quindi se dovessero comparire anche episodi di epistassi. La cosa migliore comunque è quella di scegliere delle strade alternative, per ammorbidire le mucose e migliorare la respirazione. Usare i lavaggi nasali, un umidificatore nella stanza in cui dormite, potreste anche provare un aerosol con solo dell’acqua distillata. LAVAGGI NASALI NEONATO La salute del nasino è molto importante per i neonati, perché respirare bene è la prima difesa del bebè contro malesseri e infezioni; il naso non è solo un organo per il passaggio dell’aria ma anche un collegamento importante per tutte le vie respiratorie, quali orecchie, gola e seni paranasali. È evidente, quindi, che se il naso è disturbato dalla presenza di secrezioni ed infezioni non può funzionare bene, soprattutto nei neonati  nei quali i collegamenti tra naso ed altre parti sono ancora più diretti. Il naso ha anche la funzione di difendere l’organismo dalle aggressioni esterne, grazie alla mucosa, cioè il tessuto di rivestimento interno. Il nasino libero è un’ottima garanzia contro raffreddori e malattie delle vie respiratorie, infatti solo se la mucosa non è ostruita dal muco, può svolgere nel modo migliore il suo ruolo di difesa delle infezioni e delle irritazioni. Maggiori attenzioni devono essere prestati ai neonati perché fino al primo anno di età il piccolo respira quasi esclusivamente con il naso, e la sua ostruzione comporta lo scorretto apporto di ossigeno ai polmoni; inoltre, fino ai 3 anni di età il bambino non è in grado di soffiarsi il naso da solo, e quindi è più facile che il muco rimanga all’interno. Per tenere sempre pulito il nasino del bambini bisogna rimuovere il muco che si è formato, anche per facilitare il passaggio del virus e dei batteria gli organi confinanti. Il lavaggio consiste nell’introdurre nel naso del bambino un’apposita soluzione e farla passare da una narice all’altra, ammorbidendo le secrezioni e rimuovere il muco. LAVAGGI NASALI BAMBINO Il nasino pulito è presupposto fondamentale per la corretta respirazione del bambino e protegge il bebè contro i principali malesseri e le infezioni. Un eccesso di muco, infatti, può ostruire il naso e causare i tipici disturbi da raffreddamento e le infezioni delle vie respiratorie. Il naso è un organo  molto importante per i bambini, soprattutto i più piccoli: permette il passaggio, il riscaldamento ed il filtraggio dell’aria. E’ importante, quindi, che il naso sia sempre perfettamente pulito ed il muco in eccesso eliminato per non compromettere la funzionalità della mucosa nasale. Il modo più facile e diffuso per pulirsi il naso è soffiarselo spesso. I bambini, però, non sanno soffiarsi il naso ed imparano a farlo da soli solo verso i 6 anni. Per questo, ai bambini piccoli può essere utile effettuare i cosiddetti lavaggi nasali. Cosa sono i lavaggi nasali? I lavaggi nasali sono un metodo semplice ed efficace per mantenere pulito il nasino del bambino ed eliminare il muco in eccesso. Un lavaggio nasale consiste nell’immissione nel naso di una sostanza liquida, generalmente soluzione fisiologica nebulizzata, per pulire le fosse nasali ed eliminare il catarro stagnante. I lavaggi nasali sono molto importanti soprattutto per i neonati poichè respirano principalmente con il naso e sono più soggetti ad infezioni delle vie aeree. L’importanza del naso pulito per i lattanti emerge soprattutto durante la poppata: il bambino ha la bocca occupata e la respirazione con il nasino è l’unica possibile. Il lavaggio nasale libera il naso, elimina gli agenti infettivi e gli allergeni, combatte la secchezza delle mucose e impedisce al muco di raggiungere orecchie, tonsille, gola, faringe e bronchi. Come effettuare il lavaggio nasale? Per effettuare il lavaggio nasale, distendete il vostro bambino sul fasciatoio, sul letto o su una qualsiasi superficie. Piegate la testolina del bimbo da un lato, introducete l’erogatore della soluzione nella narice superiore e introducete il liquido nel naso. La soluzione passa, così, da una narice all’altra favorendo l’eliminazione del muco in eccesso. Ripetete l’operazione dall’altro lato, piegando la testa del bambino dall’altro lato. Dopo aver effettuato il lavaggio, alzate il bimbo per favorire la fuoriuscita del muco e pulite il naso del vostro bambino con un fazzolettino. Prima di riporre l’erogatore, sciacquatelo accuratamente sotto l’acqua calda ed asciugatelo bene. Può capitare che il naso del  bambino sia particolarmente chiuso e pieno di catarro.

COMMON ILLNESSES AND NASIR® NASAL SHOWER

This section of the website containseducational materialwritten by doctorswho are part of our initiative. Our goal is to offersupportin simple language that everyone can understand.  

The most common diseases in pediatrics

RSV- virus respiratorio sinciziale E’ la causa principale della bronchiolite(l’infiammazione delle piccole vie aeree) e della polmonite. L’infezione inizia con sintomi simili a quelli dell’influenza, come naso che cola e tosse. Otite Ne soffrono moltissimi bambini a causa delle loro piccole trombe di Eustachio. Questi tubi collegano le orecchie alla gola e possono bloccarsi soprattutto a causa del freddo che provoca l’infiammazione. I sintomi includono febbre, agitazione, e ovviamente dolore all’orecchio. La maggior parte delle infezioni dell’orecchio sono dovute a virus e si curano da sole. Le vaccinazioni aiutano a prevenire le infezioni da batteri che possono causare infezioni dell’orecchio. L’otite media con versamento: si tratta di un accumulo di fluido nell’orecchio medio (con o senza dolore) che porta ad un’infezione acuta dell’orecchio o delle alte vie respiratorie. Malattia mani-piedi-bocca E’ una malattia esantematica che ha una maggiore diffusone in estate e inizio autunno. Provoca febbre e soprattutto vesciche sulla parte interna della bocca, i palmi delle mani, i glutei e le piante dei piedi. Non è particolarmente contagiosa e di solito dura una decina di giorni. Congiuntivite Lacrimazione, arrossamento, prurito, e le ciglia attaccate a causa del pus sono i principali segni della congiuntivite. Questo disturbo è spesso causato dagli stessi virus che portano il raffreddoree quindi ha una diffusione veloce soprattutto nelle scuole e negli ambienti chiusi. E’ necessario far visitare il bambino per avere una terapia efficace. Quinta malattia Causata dal parvovirus B19, causa un’eruzione cutanea di colore rosso soprattutto sul viso del bambino. La malattia si risolve spontaneamente entro una decina di giorni e non esistono cure particolari. E’ sconsigliata l’esposizione al sole. Infezioni da Rotavirus E’ la causa più comune di gastroenteriti virali fra i neonati e i bambini al di sotto dei 5 anni. In particolare, nei bambini molto piccoli (tra i 6 e i 24 mesi) il virus può causare una diarrea severa e disidratazione. La malattia ha un periodo di incubazione di circa due giorni, dopo i quali insorgono febbre, disturbi gastrici, vomito e diarrea acquosa. Spesso si guarisce spontaneamente ma in caso di disidratazione forte è assolutamente necessario recarsi dal medico. Sindrome di Kawasaki Si tratta di una patologia che colpisce soprattutto i bambini d’età inferiore ai 4 anni con un picco nel secondo anno di vita. I sintomi includono febbre alta, eruzioni cutanee a chiazze, gonfiore e arrossamento delle mani e dei piedi, occhi iniettati di sangue, labbra rosse e screpolate. In assenza di trattamento, la malattia può danneggiare il cuore e può essere fatale. Varicella Si previene facilmente facendo vaccinare il proprio bimbo. Poiché la varicella può causare pericolose complicazioni nei neonati, negli adulti e nelle donne in stato di gravidanza, vaccinarsi è estremamente consigliato. Morbillo Anche questa malattia si previene con il vaccino. L’infezione inizia con febbre, naso che cola e tosse, dopodiché su tutto il corpo si presenta un’eruzione cutanea diffusa. La maggior parte dei bambini guarisce in due settimane, ma in alcuni casi la malattia può portare anche alla la polmonite o ad altri problemi. Parotite Si tratta di una malattia infantile che era molto comune prima della diffusione del vaccino specifico. L’infezione spesso non ha sintomisalvo il classico gonfiore delle ghiandole tra l’orecchio e la mascella. Rosolia E’ un virus mite che di solito non provoca problemi seri.Tuttavia, può danneggiare il feto se una donna incinta si infetta. I sintomi sono febbre bassa ed esantema cutaneo che si estende dalla faccia al resto del corpo. Il vaccino MMR protegge contro morbillo, parotite e rosolia. Pertosse Si tratta di una malattia infettiva contagiosa, epidemica ed endemica che causa un’infezione acuta delle vie respiratorie. Gli antibiotici non sono particolarmente utili nel trattamento, per cui la vaccinazione è essenziale per la prevenzione. Meningite E’ un’infiammazione o infezione del tessuto intorno al cervello e al midollo spinale. In adolescenti e adulti, i sintomi principali sono mal di testa, febbre, e torcicollo. I bambini piccoli possono avere sintomi simil-influenzali o irritabilità estrema. La meningite virale è generalmente mite, ma la meningite batterica è più grave, con gravi conseguenze se non viene trattata rapidamente. Scarlattina E’ una malattia infettiva acuta contagiosa, caratteristica dell’età pediatrica, che si manifesta con febbre e con un’eruzione cutanea rossa accompagnata da mal di gola. L’eruzione cutanea inizia sul petto e sull’addome e si diffonde in tutto il corpo, accompagnato da una lingua dall’aspetto a fragola e febbre alta. In assenza di trattamento, può portare alla febbre reumatica e, in rari casi, danni al cuore. Sindrome di Reye Una malattia pediatrica di grave intensità che si presenta a causa della somministrazione di acido acetilsalicilico (la comune aspirina). Si manifesta con nausea, vomito, e sintomi neurologici come perdita della memoria e disorientamento. E’ inoltre è caratterizzata da disturbi epatici talmente gravi da portare a uno stato di coma fino alla morte. Impetigine Un’infezione batterica della pelle, spesso causata da batteri stafilococco. E’ piuttosto comune soprattutto nei mesi estivi e, trattata con i giusti antibiotici non lascia segni sulla pelle. Tigna Un’infezione della cute causata da funghi patogeni. Provoca dei segni rossi a forma tonda sulla pelle o sul cuoio capelluto. Il fungo si diffonde facilmente da bambino a bambino, per questo bisogna evitare di condividere pettini, spazzole, asciugamani e vestiti. Malattia di Lyme (borreliosi) Una malattia di origine batterica che si manifesta con eruzioni cutanee “a bersaglio” o ad “occhio di bue”, febbre, brividi e dolori muscolari. La causa della malattia di Lyme è un batterio che infesta le zecche, che a loro volta possono trasmetterlo all’uomo e agli animali.

Seasonal allergies

It is a reaction to microscopic particles such as pollen that causes sneezing, watery eyes, and a runny or stuffy nose. Children may constantly rub their nose with the palm of their hand, a gesture called the allergic salute. There is no cure for hay fever, but there are ways to help control the symptoms.

Colds in children

A stuffy nose, difficulty breathing, sudden coughing fits, vomiting mucus in the middle of the night, difficulty eating or latching on to the breast... these are all things that every mother knows well when her baby has a cold! Practical tips to relieve your child's cold:

HAVE THEM SLEEP WITH TWO PILLOWS UNDER THE MATTRESS

If it is raised higher, it breathes better and reduces the retro-pharyngeal drainage of mucus, with a reduction in coughing and "mucous" vomiting!

MAKE SURE THEY DRINK ENOUGH

Good hydration is essential for making mucus less thick and uncomfortable!

NASAL CLEANING WITHISOTONIC SOLUTIONS(saline solution!)

What is the first thing an adult does when they have a cold? Obviously, they wash and blow their nose! And the same goes for children...

• Newborns, infants, and young children who are not yet able to blow their nose: it will be useful to perform so-called "nasal washes" withisotonic solutions.

• Children who already know how to blow their nose can have their nose cleaned using the same solutions mentioned above, after which the child should be encouraged to blow their nose effectively.

NASAL CLEANING WITHHYPERTONIC SOLUTION

Hypertonic saline solution can be very useful as an accompaniment to or replacement for physiological saline solution (especially in children with particularly thick secretions that are difficult to dissolve). Recent studies show the benefits of hypertonic saline even in children under 1 year of age with bronchiolitis. Bronchiolitis is a disease of the small airways that can sometimes be severe and require hospitalization; it often starts as a common cold and then develops into respiratory distress (i.e., difficulty breathing!). So discuss with your pediatrician the possibility of using it for your little one, because even if what seems like a cold turns into bronchiolitis within 2-3 days, hypertonic saline solution seems to bring significant benefits!

Fever in children

Fever is one of the most frequent causes of concern for parents. However,80% of fever episodes observed in children are not attributable to a specific cause and are caused by viral infections. In these cases, antibiotics should not be administered. The rise in body temperature is determined by a pathophysiological mechanism mediated by cytokines, acute phase molecules, endocrine and immunological factors. The onset of fever in children is a frequent occurrence and one of the most common symptoms in the early years of life. Especially if it appears suddenly or if the body temperature reaches levels considered high, fever is usually a cause for alarm and concern for parents. However, it is important to bear in mind that fever is a normal response of the body to infection and helps the child to defend itself better against the disease and to destroy the microbes that caused it more quickly. A child has a fever when their internal body temperature exceeds 37.5°C. In this case, the first useful action is to uncover them to help them disperse excess heat and give them plenty to drink, but without forcing them to eat if they do not feel like it. If the fever exceeds 38.5°C, an antipyretic should be administered, bearing in mind that, according to the World Health Organization, the preferred medication for children and adolescents is paracetamol, which is effective, safe, and very well tolerated. If the child falls asleep and then has difficulty waking up, even after prolonged stimulation, it means that they are not well. Respiratory signs should then be observed and the child's hydration status checked. This can be done by inspecting the diaper of very young children; low urine output is a possible sign of incipient dehydration, which should also be checked by examining the mucous membranes of the eyes and mouth. Another key factor in monitoring a child's hydration status is body weight. Parents should know their child's weight in order to make a useful comparison, weighing them as soon as they begin to show symptoms of gastroenteritis, with vomiting and diarrhea. If a weight loss of about ten percent is noticed, for example, half a kilo in a child weighing five kilos, dehydration may be present. The child should then be given fluids: water and breastfed more often. It is advisable to try to create the best conditions for the child's comfort and thus to encourage the natural evolution of the fever. First of all, it is important not to cover the child excessively: with a fleece cotton pajama or a comfortable tracksuit, to which a light sweater and a pair of socks can be added if necessary. If the child has chills, it is because the fever is rising. In this case, we can lay them down in their bed with a light blanket and, if necessary, a bag of warm water at their feet, to be removed as soon as the chills have passed. To promote the child's well-being, it is also important to indulge their wishes in terms of food. Breastfed babies can continue to feed from their mother: suckling and maternal warmth are a source of comfort and hydration for them, helping them to recover more quickly. For bottle-fed babies, it is best to avoid taking any action regarding the quantity of meals or the dilution of milk. When a child has a fever, they have less appetite than usual. This is a normal reaction, due to the fact that the body needs to save energy, otherwise spent on the digestive process, to devote all its efforts to fighting the infection. It is important to keep the child hydrated as much as possible: if they are already a few months old, in addition to plain water at room temperature, you can offer them warm milk. If the child is very young, under three months old, and has a persistent fever above 38 degrees rectal, it is best not to waste time and go to the emergency room for a complete examination to rule out respiratory conditions such as bronchiolitis.

Breastfeeding

Infants and children have been breastfed for thousands of years, but in the last century breastfeeding has declined due to the discovery of formula milk. Today, however, many mothers are aware that breastfeeding gives their babies the best possible nutrition. Breast milk is healthy, convenient, and always available in the right quantity and composition. Breast milk contains all the nutrients a baby needs for a perfect start in life. In addition, breast milk changes to adapt individually to the needs of the newborn and growing child. Some important benefits for the baby are:

• Breast milk is easily digestible, does not overload the baby's metabolism, and nutrients are well absorbed and assimilated.
• The immune substances contained in breast milk protect the baby from viral and bacterial infections. In addition, components of breast milk promote the development of the baby's immune system.
• The jaw and mandible develop better with breastfeeding and the movements of the oral muscles. Later on, children suffer less from dental malocclusion and speech disorders.
• Breastfeeding reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome.
• Breastfeeding is more than just providing nourishment. It develops all the senses and satisfies many needs. Through close physical contact, the baby feels warmth, security, and affection. A deep emotional bond develops between mother and child.

Not only the baby, but also the mother benefits from breastfeeding:

• After giving birth, breastfeeding, especially if frequent, promotes rapid and effective uterine involution, thus reducing blood loss.
• The risk of breast cancer or ovarian cancer decreases.
• Breastfeeding, and especially prolonged breastfeeding, protects against osteoporosis.
• Breastfeeding also saves money and helps the environment.

To promote breastfeeding and adequate milk production, it is essential that a strong mother-child bond is established as soon as possible. Hence the importance of the first moments after birth (bonding) and rooming-in. In addition, the oxytocin reflex is more complicated than the prolactin reflex and can be influenced by the mother's thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Positive feelings, such as feeling satisfied with your baby, thinking tenderly about him, and feeling convinced that your milk is best for him, or even sensations such as touching and looking at your baby, or listening to him cry, promote the oxytocin reflex. On the other hand, negative feelings, such as pain, worry, or fear that there is not enough milk, can prevent the reflex and suspend milk flow. Fortunately, this effect is temporary. In the case of premature babies, the mother can express milk with the baby in the incubator (the mother looks at or touches the baby in the incubator and expresses milk at the same time) or do so after kangaroo care.

Crying

Crying is the only way newborns have tocommunicate a need or problem to their caregivers. However, babies don't just cry to communicate an immediate need; they also cry torelease tension and stress. Newborns often cry for reasons that, at first glance, seem unrelated to any immediate need. As early as 1962, Brazelton discovered thatnewborns cry on average for one and a half to two hours a day for no apparent reason. The peak intensity and duration of crying occurs between 6 and 8 weeks of age and then gradually decreases. This pattern is not unique to Western newborns but also occurs in indigenous societies (albeit to a slightly lesser extent). The classic explanations for prolonged and inconsolable crying are most often linked to organic and presumably physiological causes. The most commonly cited is that of so-calledgas colic, about which much has been written, seeking explanations and irrefutable proof of its existence, often without much success. Similarly, explanations have been sought forthe immaturity of the gastrointestinal systemor the possibility ofallergiesto various substances present in breast milk (cow's milk, coffee, alcohol, eggs, nuts, citrus fruits, legumes, onions, strawberries, etc.) or in formula milk. In fact, after 12 weeks of life, most babies tend to cry less regardless of their parents' efforts. Since the usual explanations for why newborns cry are insufficient, it would be useful to also considerpossible emotional causes. It seems that young children cry mainly fortwo reasons. One is tocommunicate a need, such as changingposition, being fed, or being picked up. The other is torelease physical and psychological tension and stress. When crying does not communicate an immediate physical need, it represents an innate automatic release of tension, which allows children to overcome the effects of previous experiences of fear or frustration. Many child psychiatrists and therapists consider crying to be a useful expression of feelings with therapeutic value. Some sources of stress and trauma are obvious, while others are not. Six main categories of trauma or stress during childhood can be identified: pre- and perinatal trauma, unmet needs, overstimulation, growth-related frustrations, physical pain, and experiences that cause fear. To identify sources of stress in newborns, researchers have often analyzed cortisol levels during various situations. In fact, cortisol levels in newborns are usually high at birth and during the period immediately after delivery. There is a gradual reduction in cortisol levels up to six months of age, after which there are few significant changes. Crying itself does not seem to trigger any stressful reaction, while both crying and stress reactions are caused by stressful events.

What to do when a newborn cries?

It is important to remember that some stress is inevitable. It is not possible to protect a child from life, and learning and growing always involve some suffering and frustration. So rather than stopping children from crying, it would be useful to reduce the sources of stress that cause them to cry in early childhood, without neglecting the importance of a peaceful pregnancy. Furthermore, a parent's task should be to teach their children how to manage and deal with the emotions resulting from stress. Usually, parents, with the best of intentions, suppress crying by offering some kind of distraction, which ultimately does not help to relax the child, who will continue to cry as if they are not understood. Instead, learning to deal with crying in a constructive way could significantly reduce tension and stress within the family, thus preventing physical and verbal abuse by parents who are often exasperated and irritated by the incessant and incomprehensible crying of a child. Listening sympathetically to children who express the need to cry helps to strengthen the adult/child bond. In other words, the crying of infants and children should never be ignored but dealt with warmly and empathetically, accepting it in order to understand whether it communicates physical or emotional distress.

Sleep

Both day and night, babies and young children need the loving care and closeness of their caregiver(s). Their needs are the same 24 hours a day, and they have not yet developed a sense of time. When left alone, babies and young children are faced with great fear. In normal cases, they activate a healthy attachment method: that is, they do everything possible to reach their caregiver. They cry to get their parents to take them close, comfort them, and instill a feeling of security. If the parents do not respond to their request for closeness and protection, they experience acute separation anxiety and their trust is damaged, which can undermine the proper formation of a "secure" attachment and jeopardize future development. For this reason, it is surprising to see people who professionally provide advice to parents continue to suggest methods such as "sleep training" (the Ferber method or "controlled crying"; Dr. Ferber's theories are widespread in Italian in the book Tutti i bambini fanno la nanna [All Children Sleep] by Annette Kast-Zahn and Hartmut Morgenroth). This involves leaving the child alone in the dark at night, even if this situation clearly causes them distress. The "cry it out" technique, which was very popular some time ago, is now rejected and viewed by all specialists as a very painful and harmful method for the child. However, the technique of letting the child cry but with different intervals of presence (known as "controlled frustration conditioning" or "adapted extinction") is often considered appropriate, even though these practices are equally problematic for the child. Distressed and stressed, the baby is unlikely to be aware of the few minutes of attention provided by these methods, which mainly serve to ease the parents' guilty conscience. To date, the side effects of the Ferber method have not been examined in any controlled prospective studies. Conducting such research would also be ethically unacceptable. So, should people whose job it is to advise parents be allowed to recommend the Ferber method? In the context of breastfeeding counseling, we regularly meet mothers who, concerned about their babies' behavior during sleep, have been advised to apply a "sleep training" program based on the Ferber method. But many mothers instinctively feel that this approach is not healthy for their children. Those who have applied the method for a limited period of time are often even more concerned about the intensity of their child's crying. Constant waking is a challenge for most parents and can cause profound fatigue. However, parents who are able to better understand their children's sleep behavior thanks to competent information and who feel empowered in their loving response to their child often cope better with nighttime awakenings. In addition, there are effective methods for positively influencing a child's sleep without leaving them to cry alone (see recommended reading).

Allergies

Allergy refers toan abnormal response by the immune system triggered by contact with substances foreign to the bodythat are commonly harmless. In children with a hereditary predisposition, allergies cause symptoms, inflammation, and diseases affecting different organs and systems: – the lungs (asthma); – the skin (eczema, hives); – the eyes and nose (hay fever). When a child with a hereditary predisposition (often a child born to allergic parents) comes into contact with normally harmless foreign substances (allergens), they very easily produce large quantities of a type of antibody, immunoglobulin E (reagin, IgE), which triggers allergic reactions and allergic diseases. Allergies can appear at any age, even in the first year of life, and are influenced by genetic predisposition. If both parents are not allergic, the risk of a child being allergic is 10-15%. If one parent is allergic, the risk rises to 30%, while if both parents suffer from an allergic disease, the risk reaches 60-80%. Allergy is therefore a condition in which the immune system recognizes a normally harmless foreign substance (allergen) as if it were an aggressive agent to be vigorously defended against, triggering a violent inflammatory reaction.

Most common forms of allergy

–Allergic rhinitis– Allergic conjunctivitis – Asthma – Eczema or atopic dermatitis – Hives Allergic rhinitis This is an inflammation of the nasal mucosathat causes itching, sneezing, watery nasal discharge, and a feeling of nasal congestion: the child rubs the tip of their nose obsessively (the so-called "allergic salute").  Perennial rhinitis is caused by the inhalation of mainly domestic allergens (especially dust mites that feed on human dandruff), while seasonal rhinitis is caused by pollen (grasses, pellitory, olive trees, etc.) and certain molds (alternaria).

Allergic conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis, often associated with rhinitis (oculorhinitis),consists of inflammation of the eye. It can be perennial or seasonal, depending on whether it is caused by an allergen that is present all year round or only at certain times of the year. It can manifest itself with different symptoms: – the eye isred, watery, and the child feels as if they have "sand in their eyes"; – theitchingis so intense that the child keeps rubbing their eyes with their hands, further worsening the inflammation; – the eyes are so inflamed that children with allergic conjunctivitis are also verybotheredbysunlight.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the bronchi,characterized by labored breathing and wheezing. It is difficult to diagnose before the age of 5 because wheezing is common in early childhood, even in non-allergic children: it depends on the very small diameter of the bronchi. In young children, the bronchi easily become blocked during acute viral infections, with symptoms very similar to those of allergic asthma. If episodes of bronchial obstruction and wheezing continue or begin after the age of 5, this can be considered true chronic bronchial asthma, which, in the vast majority of cases, is allergic in origin. It can also start with a dry, irritating cough, but as it worsens, bronchial spasms become evident and whistling and wheezing are heard during exhalation because the narrowing of the bronchial lumen becomes more pronounced. The child experiences breathing difficulties, becomes agitated, and breathes rapidly. If the obstruction is very severe, the child may develop a dark (cyanotic) complexion due to insufficient oxygenation of the tissues.

Eczema or atopic dermatitis

It is achronic, recurrentinflammatory skin disease characterized by intensely itchy inflammation. In the acute phase, papules, vesicles, and serous secretion prevail, while in the chronic phase, dryness and thickening of the skin (known as lichenification) predominate. The inflammation is accompanied byexcessive skin reactivity, creating a vicious circle and causing the disease to become chronic: the skin is reddened, the itching is intense, and there are sores (fissures), mainly in the folds of the neck, armpits, and groin.Scratchingworsens the inflammation and facilitates skin infection by bacteria such as staphylococcus. Atopic eczema has many characteristics in common with allergic diseases: – a family history of allergic diseases; – high IgE levels; – the presence of IgE antibodies directed against various allergens; – the frequent presence of other allergic diseases in the same child, such as rhinitis and bronchial asthma. However, allergy alone does not explain allergic dermatitis. Other factors contribute to it, such as infections and excessive skin sensitivity to all stimuli: rubbing, temperature changes, and exposure to sunlight.

Hives

It is easily recognizable because it is characterized by the appearance ofwheals: skin protuberances measuring a few millimeters or several centimeters in diameter, usually pale in color but surrounded by a red halo. The wheal causes intense itching and can last from a few minutes to several hours, as well as changing shape. Sometimes the bump spreads and becomes conspicuous, especially on the lips, eyelids, extremities, genitals, or other areas of the body, taking the name ofangioedema.   In infants, angioedema frequently occurs on the hands, feet, face, and genitals. During their lifetime,about one in five people will experience at least one episode of urticaria: in children, the incidence varies from 5% to 7%, but these are mostly acute episodes; chronic urticaria affects only 0.2-1% of children.   In most cases, acute urticaria is triggered by infections and sometimes by the combined effect of the infection and the drugs used to treat it (e.g., antibiotics). Much more rarely, it is caused by a food allergy or intestinal parasitosis.

Food allergy

Food allergy isareaction triggered by the ingestion of food proteinssuch as those found in animal milk, chicken eggs, wheat, soy, fish, fruit, and vegetables. It affects less than 1% of children and in most cases improves spontaneously by the age of 6, when the child becomes tolerant to the food in question. The symptoms caused by food allergies can be: – gastrointestinal (gastrointestinal anaphylaxis, vomiting and diarrhea, blood in the stool, severe abdominal colic as a result of eating the suspected food); – cutaneous (urticaria–angioedema, especially if affecting the lips and tongue; atopic dermatitis); – rarely respiratory (rhinitis and asthma). Promoting breastfeeding is the main way to delay or prevent the onset of symptoms resulting from cow's milk allergy in infants.

Noisy breathing

Many parents, especially first-time parents, worry when they hear their babybreathingloudlyandrapidly. In reality,noisy breathing in newbornsis a physiological condition caused bythe shapeof the nasal passages, which creates a sort of turbulence when air passes through them. In addition, thenasal mucous membranes ofinfants react very easily to stimuli from the external environment such as humidity, temperature changes, smoke, etc. This promotes the production ofnasal secretions thatincreaseair resistanceand consequentnoise. Babies, especially in the first few months of life, are not yet able to expel themucusproduced on their own, and the air passing through these secretions in the nose creates a rumbling sound in the chest. In addition,newborns generallybreathe veryquickly. This is because the capacity of an infant's lungs to store air is less than that of an adult. If thenoisy breathing in newbornsis not accompanied by other symptoms such as intensecoughingand nighttimecoughing, there is no need to worry. Simplyclean thebaby'snosewith a saline solution to clear any mucus and help them breathe better. However, it is important to pay attention and learn torecognize the different noisesthat babies make while breathing:

• Snoring: this is caused by an obstruction that prevents air from passing through the nose or throat properly. The main cause ofsnoring inchildren is enlargedadenoids or tonsils, which can cause interruptions in breathing, known asapnea, especially during sleep.
• Rattle: this is a noise caused by air vibrating in the child's throat and chest cavity when obstructed by mucus. It can be heard by placing a hand on the child's back.
• Stridor: avibrating noise thatoccurs when the newborn inhales air. It is characteristic of inflammation of the larynx. It is usually accompanied by a metallic, hoarse cough.
• wheezing: a noise made by a child when breathing out. It is caused by inflammation or obstruction of the bronchi (e.g.,asthma).

To help your child breathe better, it is generally sufficientto clear and keep their nose clean. If this is not enough and the noise is accompanied by other symptoms such as wheezing and shrill sounds, a metallic cough, and fever, it is advisableto consult your pediatrician.

The importance of the right indoor climate

When ababyarrives in the home, it is essential thatparentskeep every detail under control. Everything, even things that previously seemed insignificant, must bechildproof. One of the most important aspects to consider isthe environmentin which the new arrival will live.  Specifically,the air in the homemust be optimal for thehealth of children. Innewborns, thethermoregulatory mechanisms that maintain a constant bodytemperatureare not yet fully functional.  This means that babiesconsume more oxygenwhen there arechanges in temperatureandhumidity. For this reason, it is up to parents to ensure that their baby is ina thermoneutral environment:an optimal environment in which the baby will be able to maintain their body temperature without expending energy. For ahealthy newborn, born at the right time and dressed appropriately, theideal temperatureis 22°C both day and night, whilethe relative humidityshould be between40 and 60%. For apremature baby weighing over 2 kg and dressed, however,the thermoneutral environmentrequires a temperature of 24°C and relative humidity of 50%. The water forbathingmust also be controlled: its temperature must be 36-37°C. Numerousscientific studieshave shown that incorrect temperature andexcessive humidity can causehealthproblemsin children.  Excessive humidityin the home, caused byleaksor condensation, and the resulting presence of mold and other parasites, canlead to infections in children. Specifically, children who live inhumid environmentsare more prone tosore throats,pharyngitis,tonsillitis,respiratory allergies,asthma, earaches andear infections. However,environments that are too dry can also create problems for children, causingirritation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tractand thereforenasal obstructionand throat infections. To maintain thecorrect level of humidityin the home, it is necessary to have fully functional heating and ventilation systems. Air exchangeis also essential for maintaining the rightmicroclimate in the home: even during the winter, it is a good ideato open the windowsfor about an hour a day to air out the rooms. If the air in your home is dry, it is advisable to humidify it using, for example, clayhumidifiersto be placed on radiators or electric humidifiers. These devices use water vapor to restore the rightlevel of humidityin the air. If, on the other hand, the humidity is excessive, adehumidifier can be used.

HOW TO DEAL WITH THE FALL SEASON

How to cope with the fall season
With the arrival of fall and the first cold spells, we are more exposed to the risk of catching colds or other flu symptoms. Colds affect everyone: from children to young people to the elderly. However, we can defend ourselves or at least prevent them.
Sneezing, runny nose, phlegm, and red, watery eyes. These are the symptoms of the post-holiday cold that affects around 10,000 Italian children in the early days of autumn. The sudden change in temperature blocks the main defense mechanism of the upper respiratory tract and facilitates the introduction of viruses. But be careful: this is not seasonal flu but parainfluenza viruses (there are 260 different types, each with different symptoms ranging from colds to sore throats) that must be treated with over-the-counter medicines and a lot of patience.
Pay particular attention to newborns, who are especially vulnerable to low temperatures: it is best to avoid baby carriers when it is cold and opt for a pram or stroller instead; always put a hat on your baby, as 30% of heat loss occurs through the head. Finally, it is a good idea to ask your pediatrician for advice on starting a treatment to strengthen the immune system in preparation for the cold season.
But why do we get the flu, coughs, and colds?
The immune system is weakened by the extra work required for thermoregulation in cold weather. In these cases, for example, cold air, which is drying, can cause alterations and small lesions in the mucous membranes, through which viruses and bacteria can penetrate. In addition, the cold outside contracts the peripheral blood vessels, reduces the amount of blood in the tissues, and lowers the number of antibodies responsible for defending against influenza viruses.
Several factors can cause typical winter illnesses affecting the respiratory system, such as colds, rhinitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis, tracheitis, sinusitis, and aphonia. In fact, the respiratory system, coming into direct contact with cold air, is more affected by the negative effects of low temperatures.
Therefore, it is necessary to protect yourself with preventive measures and remedies against colds, especially during periods of sudden temperature changes.
So how can you deal with the first signs of the season without risking unpleasant consequences for your family? The key words are prevention and prompt action. Here are some tips for avoiding and managing the onset of a cold.

 

• Use disposable tissues and throw them in a closed bin to avoid infecting those around us.
• Performing nasal rinses
• Protect your throat and nose, especially in crowded places and when in contact with infected people.
• Wash your hands frequently, preferably with antiseptic detergents.
• Pay attention to your diet: include fruit and vegetables in your diet, particularly cabbage, which contains iron, vitamin C, and minerals; garlic, thanks to its high iron, mineral, and vitamin content; and citrus fruits, which are rich in vitamin C.

Nasir® is a CE medical device. Specially designed for the hygiene of the nasal cavities of children and adults and to facilitate cleansing in cases of nasal congestion such as colds, sinusitis, rhinitis, respiratory allergies in general (including pollen), and to promote the progressive removal of nasal secretions. Nasir® is a fast and effective way to help purify the nasal cavities by eliminating excess mucus and preventing secondary infections and complications such as otitis.
Request a free sample of Nasir Isotonic or Hypertonic for immediate relief and to clear your nose. Nasir will be sent to your home with no shipping costs.

STUFFY NOSE... HOW TO SOLVE IT?

The rigors of each season and the fight againstnasal congestion, allergies, and allergies and micro-dust pollution are among the most debated issues, especially in childhood. The World Health Organization has found truly alarming levels of micro-dust in large Italian cities; data shows that respiratory diseases in children are on the rise and thatevery year at least 30,000 children are affected by acute bronchitis. Pediatricians are increasingly recommending spa treatments for young patients toprevent or treatrespiratory diseases or allergies. Today, we are witnessing the rediscovery of the benefits of certain healthy habits that could have excellent therapeutic results using saline solutions that act immediately on the nasal cavities, providing relief and optimizing breathing. The inability of young children to blow their noses also promotes the stagnation of secretions, which facilitates the growth of germs.Adenoid hypertrophycauses children to breathe noisily at night, often with their mouths open, sometimes snoring, and their voices can become nasal. In the winter and spring months, children suffer from frequent colds and hearing problems due to the accumulation of mucus in the Eustachian tubes. By boosting children's immune defenses, it is possible to effectively prevent the onset of flu and all forms of colds, tonsillitis, or pharyngitis, which often affect the health of young children. Convince young children to perform a nasal wash or shower could have a preventive and therapeutic effect. It is therefore important that the child is supervised by a parent, especially during the first nasal washes.

NASIR BABY®

A gradual and educational approach allows you to involve the child more, allowing them to feel comfortable, empowering them and guiding them towards safe autonomy in nasal washing. Thermal inhalations are an effective and natural remedy for all upper and lower respiratory tract conditions. With a marked decongestant and anti-inflammatory effect on the mucous membranes, they promote a healthy response to external aggressions.

The nasal douche is now used as apreventive and curativetreatment for the nasal passages, usingsaline solutions at body temperatureor slightly above. It is recommended for the prevention ofnasal congestionof the nasal mucosa and paranasal sinuses and for chronic nasal conditions such asmucopurulent andcrustingrhinitisandrhinosinusitis. It is generally performed daily or every other day and can be combined with other inhalation therapies. Nasal irrigation clears catarrhal secretions while providing a pleasant "water massage." It also allows for intense absorption of the active ingredients (trace elements and mineral salts) contained in the solution, as well as a deep cleansing and moisturizing action. Its simple use with pressure on the dispenser allows you to easily reach the sinuses and is also recommended for sinusitis and rhinopharyngitis. It is an excellent method for cleansing the mucous membranes before any other therapy and opening up a troublesome "stuffy nose." Contact us for afree trialfor you and your child.

Nasir Baby® will be sent to your home with no shipping costs.

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EP Medica cares deeply about the health and safety of its customers, and our continuously innovated products are rigorously tested in accordance with current regulations to guarantee quality.

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