The infectious season is in full swing. Colds, flu and upper respiratory tract infections affect both children and adults, and waiting rooms in clinics are full of patients. How do we deal with such diseases, when should we go to the doctor and when is home treatment enough? In this guide, you will find answers to these questions and practical tips on how to quickly and effectively deal with seasonal infections.
OBSERVATION OF SYMPTOMS IN CHILDREN
Children, especially the youngest ones, are particularly susceptible to seasonal infections. As Dr. Izabela Mader Wołyńska, a specialist in pediatrics, emphasizes, many of these infections can be effectively treated at home. However, the most important thing is vigilant observation. If your child has a high temperature, cough or other symptoms, do not panic - most infections are viral and tend to be self-limiting. However, there are situations in which a visit to the doctor is necessary, especially if the child has difficulty drinking fluids, does not urinate as often as usual or the fever does not subside despite medication.
Home remedies to reduce fever, such as cool baths (water slightly cooler than the child's body temperature) or applying compresses to the forehead and arms, may provide relief. Also, remember to stay hydrated - giving cool drinks can help control the fever. However, if the fever is over 39°C and the child is lethargic or shows other worrying symptoms, do not delay a visit to the doctor.
HOME TREATMENT – WHEN AND HOW?
In both children and adults, most seasonal infections can be treated at home. As Dr. Ewa Jarowicz, a specialist in infectious diseases, advises, it is crucial to stay home and rest at the first symptoms – such as a runny nose, cough, headache. This is the most effective way to stop the infection from spreading. It is also worth remembering to isolate the sick person, especially in the case of children – let's not send them to school or kindergarten to avoid mass illnesses.
The basis of home treatment is hydration, rest, and symptomatic treatment. In pharmacies, we can find many over-the-counter medications that can alleviate cold symptoms - antipyretics, anti-inflammatories, diaphoretic syrups, and vitamins. However, remember to use them according to the instructions on the leaflet.
PREVENTIVE CARE AT HOME
Seasonal infections spread very easily, especially in homes, where not only children but also adults can be infected. As experts suggest, it is worth returning to the habits that many of us have adopted during the pandemic. Regular hand washing, frequent airing of rooms and the use of masks, especially when in contact with a sick person, are simple and effective ways to limit the spread of viruses.
It is also worth taking care of the appropriate air humidity in rooms, especially during the heating season, because dry air can irritate mucous membranes, which promotes infections. Remember to regularly humidify the air and take care of the appropriate temperature - avoid overheating rooms, especially bedrooms.
WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE A DOCTOR?
Although most seasonal infections can be treated independently, there are situations in which a visit to a doctor is necessary. As Dr. Izabela Mader Wołyńska emphasizes, every child who has a high fever (over 39°C) and does not respond to antipyretics should be consulted by a pediatrician. It is also important to react quickly in the event of a rash that does not fade on pressure or difficulty urinating.
In adults, as Dr. Ewa Jarowicz reminds, it is worth seeing a doctor if after a few days the symptoms worsen, shortness of breath appears or the cough does not subside. Such symptoms may indicate bronchitis or pneumonia, which requires specialist treatment.
Seasonal infections are an inevitable part of the autumn and winter season, but the right approach and following a few simple rules can help alleviate them. However, if symptoms worsen or last longer than a few days, do not hesitate to seek medical advice - your health and that of your family is the most important thing!
Want to know more? Listen podcast series WHAT DOES YOUR DOCTOR SAY devoted to infectious diseases.