What do I do if my kid has.....
Quick Answers:
Constipation?
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Keep them hydrated
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Add fiber foods – fruits (pears, prunes, apples), veggies, beans, whole grains.
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Cut back on constipating foods – too much milk, cheese, bananas, or junk food.
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Set a toilet routine – sit on the toilet for 5–10 minutes after meals.
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Keep them active – running, walking, and play help the bowels move.
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Try a warm bath – relaxes muscles and can make it easier to go.
Fever?​
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Check temperature accurately (rectal for infants under 1 yr is most reliable).
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Ensure hydration → Offer breast milk, formula, or fluids frequently.
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Light clothing (avoid over-bundling).
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Never use aspirin (risk of Reye’s syndrome).
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Seek care immediately if: <2 months with fever ≥100.4°F (38°C), persistent high fever, lethargy, breathing issues, seizures, poor intake, or dehydration signs.
Congestion?
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Saline drops + bulb syringe/nasal aspirator before feeds and sleep.
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Cool-mist humidifier in the room to keep air moist.
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Elevate head slightly (safe incline for older babies, never with pillows in crib for infants).
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Keep baby hydrated → breast milk, formula, or fluids.
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Warm bath/steam from shower can help loosen mucus.
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Monitor breathing → watch for fast breathing, retractions, or wheezing.
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Seek care if → difficulty feeding, persistent fever, labored breathing, or congestion >10–14 day
Eczema?
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Daily moisturizing with fragrance-free, thick creams/ointments (apply right after bathing).
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Short, lukewarm baths (no hot water; gentle cleansers only).
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Avoid triggers → scented soaps, detergents, wool clothing, overheating.
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Keep nails short to reduce scratching/skin infections.
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Use cotton, breathable clothing to minimize irritation.
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Topical steroids (low-potency like hydrocortisone) for flare-ups if prescribed.
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Monitor for infection (oozing, yellow crust, spreading redness).
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Refer if severe/persistent despite routine care.
Teething?​
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Chilled (not frozen) teething rings
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Gentle gum massage with a clean finger
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Cold foods (purées, yogurt) if age-appropriate
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Distraction with play
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Pain relief with acetaminophen or ibuprofen if needed (only if age-appropriate and advised by pediatrician)
