When treating viral diseases in a child, parents sometimes make mistakes that can lead to a complication of the disease. That is why you should know the basic principles for the treatment of influenza and SARS in children, which are recommended by most pediatricians.
It should be noted right away that the flu is ARVI, however, it is often spoken of separately, as one of the most dangerous viral diseases with serious complications. The main symptoms characteristic of these infections are lethargy, runny nose, fever, decreased appetite, and cough. It must be said that without blood tests it is impossible to determine which strain the child was infected with. And treatment is best prescribed based on this. And if for the majority of acute respiratory viral infections, similar drugs are prescribed, then the treatment of influenza most often occurs according to a separate scheme.
However, there are general principles for the treatment of influenza and SARS in children. The first of these is bed rest. Excluding physical activity on the children's body, parents reduce the risk of possible complications after an illness.
An equally important principle, which is not always given sufficient attention, is the access of fresh air to a sick child in the room. One of the most common complications of acute respiratory viral infections is pneumonia, which often occurs due to a lack of oxygen in the body. Dried and superheated air, especially during the heating period, can contribute to the development of this disease.
If we talk about the treatment of influenza and SARS in children, then do not forget about diet food. Do not force the child's body by stuffing as much food as possible into it. Eating is best done more often, but portions are smaller. It is important to observe the drinking regime, especially at high temperatures, as there is a risk of dehydration.
Also, naming the principles for the treatment of influenza and SARS in children, it is important to emphasize the so-called "symptomatic approach." That is, struggling with certain symptoms of the disease, even before going to the doctor, among which, most often, snot and fever, parents forget to mention them in consultation with a pediatrician, and, accordingly, the treatment itself may not be prescribed correctly enough. It is important to remember that, by removing certain symptoms, the disease itself cannot be cured, which must be combated. You can only slightly alleviate the condition of the child by giving him an antipyretic, but not forgetting to mention this with the doctor.
The most difficult increase in body temperature is experienced by children under three years of age. They, among other things, may develop side effects such as convulsions and other lesions of the central nervous system. Before using an antipyretic before consulting a doctor, you should carefully study the instructions, especially side effects and recommended doses for a certain age. The most effective form of drugs with an antipyretic effect for an early age is rectal suppositories. In cases where such funds do not help, and medical care has not yet arrived, it is recommended to use physical means to influence the temperature, for example, rubbing with cool water or vinegar compresses.
Do not get involved in the fight against runny nose with vasoconstrictor drops or gel, as their frequent use can lead to concomitant chronic diseases of the respiratory tract. Speaking about how to treat flu in children, it is important to pay attention to taking antiviral drugs. The difference is that the treatment of influenza or other acute respiratory viral infections differs in the purpose of the drugs. Some pills are recommended for all viral diseases, while others are for flu treatment only. What does the difference in price can be significant. Therefore, do not forget that all the principles of treating influenza and SARS in children are based on the initial appeal of parents to qualified medical care to determine the nature and course of the disease.