Health (All) | Dads-Only

Common illnesses

Spots usually starting on the chest, back, head or neck. Child is usually unwell with spots (which will eventually blister and then scab) and a fever.

Chicken Pox

A mild infectious disease that affects most children at some point.

Red and itchy eyes. Possible pus produced that causes the eye lids to stick together. May also burn.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis or "pink eye" is an eye infection that will usually get better within 1-2 weeks.

Covid 19

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

High temperature, runny nose, watery eyes and cough. A rash over the body often appears a few days after infection.

Measles

Measles is a highly contagious virus. It can be spread simply by coughing or sneezing. Symptoms can appear up to 12 days.

Usually involves swelling in the side of the face. Other symptons can include headaches, high temperature and joint pain.

Mumps

Contagious viral infection that was common before the introduction of the MMR vaccine.

Usually starts with a hugh temperature, runny nose, sore throat and headaches. A red rash will often appear on one or both cheeks which then spreads to the arms, chest and legs. The rash can be raised and itchy.

Slapped cheek syndrome

Fifth disease or slapped cheek syndrome is a viral infection that usually lasts 1-3 weeks although it can last longer. It is common in kids aged 5-15.

Simply put - constantly crying but other signs include it being difficult to settle your babt, they are very windy or red in the face and clenching their fists.

Colic

Colic is when your baby is crying a lot but there is no obvious reason. If your baby is crying for a few hours a day or over a few days then this is likley to be colic.

Symptoms vary but include your child not going to the toilet, evidence that they are straining to poo, poo being large or hard, poor appetite or stomach pain.

Constipation

Constipation is when your child is unable to poo. Causes vary but include lack of hydration, not eating enough high-fibre or anxiety.

Head Lice

Head lice are small insects up to the 3mm long and are very common with small children. Head lice eggs are brown or white (when empty).

Symptoms can vary and do not necessarily appear in a certain order. Symptoms include headaches, being sick, a rash that does not disappear if you roll a glass over it, temperature, stiff neck, bad reaction to bright lights and possible seizures.

Meningitis

Meningitis is an infection of the membrane around the brain and spinal cord. It can be serious and you should contact your GP or 999 if you have any concerns.

Rash can follow a few weeks after contracting the disease. Other than the rash, other symptoms include high temperature, cough, runny nose, aches and pains in the wrist, fingers or knees, cough, sore eyes and/or throat.

Rubella

Rubella (or German measles) is a rare disease that causes a spotty rash and other symptoms.

Sore gums, mild temperature increase, flushed cheeks, dribbling, irritable child and possible rash on face.

Teething

The growing or cutting of teeth through the gums of an infant/baby.