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It is a universally accepted truth that children usually feel unwell in the middle of the night when you are bone tired, when most pharmacies are closed and no doctor is available. It is therefore very important to have some essential medicines like fever reducers, pain killers and antiseptic creams in stock at home. It is equally important to know their correct dosage according to your child's age and weight so that the medicine can be administered at once. In case of life threatening or chronic problems like asthma or juvenile diabetes, all medicines should be kept in a separate pouch so that you are not searching drawers or turning out cupboards while crucial minutes tick by.

Fever, chest congestions, flu, cold, ear and throat infections and asthma are common ailments that can make life very difficult for our children.

Taking care of the child

A sick child usually becomes very irritable and cranky. It can take every ounce of your effort and patience to keep him calm and make sure that he takes the proper medicines and nutrition to help him on the road to recovery.

When young children succumb to fever or cold, the initial 24 hours can be the most trying and energy draining. Blocked and stuffy nose make it impossible for a child to breathe normally or get any sleep. Breathing through the mouth causes dryness. Diarrhea and vomiting also cause the body to become dehydrated so it is very important that the lost fluids are replenished. Give small quantities of diluted orange juice and plenty of water to keep the child hydrated.

It is a good idea to place a steamer or humidifier in the child's room. A small quantity of Vicks vaporub can also be placed inside the humidifier so that the vapours spread in the air. This makes the air moist which relieves congestion and coughs and helps the child breathe more easily.

A sick child needs a lot of comfort and reassurances. Their illness can quickly take a toll on them making them tearful and fatigued. Some children feel comforted with their favourite toys tucked up in the bed with them but your presence and attention is always the main source of comfort for them.

Diet and nutrition

This is probably not the best of times to discuss merits of eating vegetables. While the child's body is busy fighting illness, it will lack appetite which returns only when he is on the road to recovery. Therefore do not force the child to eat complex foods or it might cause him to vomit. Boiled chicken, broth, soup, some fruits and boiled vegetables

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