Pediatric and infant diseases

Home » Pediatric And Infant Diseases

Stomach Pain Acute Bronchitis Chicken Pox

Stomach Pain in Children

Stomach pain in children

It is a common complaint that can have a range of causes, from mild digestive issues to more serious medical conditions.

Stomach pain can be described in many ways, including cramping, twisting, burning, or aching in the abdomen, and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as #nausea, #vomiting, and #diarrhoea. The location and intensity of the pain can also vary, and can be indicative of the underlying cause.

It is important to take stomach pain in children seriously, as it can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause, but may involve dietary changes, medication, or other therapies. In some cases, further testing such as imaging or blood tests may be necessary to diagnose the cause of the pain.

Clinical diagnosis of stomach pain in children

Types of stomach pain in children

Stomach pain in children can be classified into two main categories: functional and organic.

Functional abdominal pain: This type of stomach pain is not caused by a specific medical condition or physical problem. It is often associated with stress, anxiety, or other psychological factors. Usually
Organic abdominal pain: This type of stomach pain is caused by a specific medical condition or physical problem, such as gastroenteritis, food poisoning, appendicitis, hernias, or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Causes of stomach pain in children

Stomach pain in children can be caused by various factors, including:

Gastrointestinal problems – such as indigestion, constipation, diarrhoea, and gastroenteritis.
Food allergies or sensitivities – including lactose intolerance or celiac disease.
Infections – including bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections.
Psychological factors – including stress, anxiety, and depression, which can lead to functional abdominal pain.
Structural abnormalities – such as hernias, appendicitis, or other abdominal anomalies.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – where stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing pain and discomfort.
Intestinal obstruction – where the small or large intestine becomes blocked, causing severe abdominal pain and nausea.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Risk factors of stomach pain in children

The following are some of the risk factors that may increase the likelihood of children experiencing stomach pain:

Family history - of gastrointestinal problems or other related conditions.
Certain medical conditions – such as IBD, GERD, and food allergies or sensitivities.
Poor dietary habits – such as a diet high in processed or junk food, and low in fibre and nutrients.
Lack of physical activity or sedentary lifestyle in children.
Stress and anxiety – which can exacerbate symptoms in children who are prone to functional abdominal pain.
Taking certain medications – including antibiotics, which can disrupt the gut microbiome and lead to digestive problems.
Premature birth or low birth weight – which may increase the risk of developing digestive problems later in life.
Environmental exposure – such as exposure to pollutants or toxins, which can affect the gut and cause abdominal pain.

It is important to identify and address any risk factors that may be contributing to a child's symptoms in order to help reduce the likelihood of stomach pain and other related problems.

Treatment and management of stomach pain in children

The treatment and management of stomach pain in children will depend on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:

Dietary changes – such as increasing fibre and reducing fatty, spicy, or acidic foods.
Over-the-counter medications – such as antacids, anti-diarrheals, and pain relievers, which can provide temporary relief for mild symptoms.
Prescription medications – such as proton pump inhibitors for GERD, or antibiotics for infections.
Probiotics and prebiotics – to support gut health and improve digestive function.
Lifestyle changes – such as increasing physical activity and reducing stress, which can help improve overall health and alleviate symptoms.
Psychotherapy – for children with functional abdominal pain, therapy can help address underlying psychological or emotional issues that may be contributing to the symptoms.
Surgery – in some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat underlying conditions such as appendicitis or hernias.

Homoeopathic management for stomach pain in children

Homoeopathy management includes a well-taken case with the individualistic totality of all mental and physical symptoms and then selecting a specific remedy on the basis of the former. This is the best treatment choice.

Few medicines which can be considered only under the supervision of a homoeopathic medical practitioner (because their selection is based upon many factors) for stomach ache, are as follows:

Nux vomica – for abdominal pain that is worse after eating or drinking and is accompanied by constipation or diarrhoea. Nux Vomica is commonly used to treat abdominal pain that is caused by indigestion, overeating, or drinking too much alcohol. This remedy is often indicated for individuals who experience bloating, cramping, and nausea after eating, as well as for those who suffer from constipation.In addition to its use for digestive issues, Nux Vomica is also used to treat headaches, irritability, and restlessness. This remedy is often recommended for individuals who are highly driven, workaholic types who push themselves to the limit and then suffer the consequences in the form of digestive problems and other physical symptoms.
Colocynthis – for sharp, cramping abdominal pain that is relieved by bending over or applying pressure. Colocynthis is commonly used to treat abdominal pain, especially when it is crampy, colicky, and accompanied by diarrhoea. It is particularly indicated for individuals who experience sharp, cutting pain that is relieved by bending over double or by pressing on the affected area. The pain associated with Colocynthis can be so severe that it causes the individual to double over and cry out in agony. This remedy is often used for pain that is worse in the evening and at night, and for pain that is relieved by heat and pressure.
Magnesium phosphoricum – for abdominal pain that is worse after eating and is accompanied by feelings of nausea and bloating. Magnesium Phosphoricum is commonly used to treat various types of stomach pain, including cramps, spasms, and discomfort after eating. It is particularly indicated for individuals who experience sharp, cutting pain in the abdomen, as well as for those who suffer from bloating and indigestion. This remedy is also used to treat headaches, fatigue, and muscle pain and spasms, especially in the legs. It is often recommended for individuals who feel better after eating and for those who suffer from stress-related symptoms.
Arsenicum album – for abdominal pain that is accompanied by gushing diarrhoea and feelings of exhaustion, or history of food poisoning. Arsenicum Album is commonly indicated for various types of stomach pain, including cramps, spasms, and discomfort after eating. The pain associated with Arsenicum Album can be burning or aching in nature and is often accompanied by indigestion and diarrhoea. It is often indicated in cases of consuming rotten fruits or food poisoning. In addition to digestive issues, Arsenicum Album is also indicated for individuals who are anxious, restless, and fastidious, and for those who experience symptoms that are worse in the middle of the night. This remedy is often recommended for individuals who feel better from warmth and who crave company.
Carbo vegetabilis – for abdominal pain that is accompanied by bloating, flatulence, and sluggish digestion. Carbo Vegetabilis (often referred to as Carbo Veg) is a homeopathic remedy that is commonly indicated for various types of stomach pain, including bloating, flatulence, burping and indigestion. It is particularly indicated for individuals who experience weakness and exhaustion after eating( at times simple foods too) as well as for those who suffer from a lack of vitality and a feeling of being weighed down. In addition to digestive issues, Carbo Veg is also indicated for individuals who experience headaches, dizziness, and a feeling of being cold. This remedy is often recommended for individuals who feel better from fresh air and who have a desire for cold drinks.

Accurate potency selection of these medicines is also an important factor for cure. The selection of potency in homeopathy is based on several factors, including the individual’s symptoms, the severity of the symptoms, and the person’s overall health. The potency of a homeopathic remedy is the measurement of its dilution, with higher potencies being more dilute and lower potencies being less dilute.

When selecting a potency, it is important to consider the individual’s symptoms and the stage of the illness. For acute symptoms, such as a cold or a headache, a lower potency, such as 6C or 30C, may be used. At times this may also require frequent repetition as per condition of the patient. For chronic conditions, or for symptoms that have been present for a long time, a higher potency, such as 200C or 1M, may be more appropriate.

It’s also important to consider the individual’s overall health and sensitivity. Some people are highly sensitive to homeopathic remedies and may only require a low potency, while others may need a higher potency to experience a therapeutic effect.

It’s important to keep in mind that selecting the appropriate potency for a homeopathic remedy requires the guidance of a licensed practitioner, as every person’s symptoms and health conditions are unique.

Homoeopathic medicines should be taken only when prescribed by a homoeopathic physician. Self-medication may aggravate the original conditions.

Acute Bronchitis In Children

Introduction:

The term bronchitis literally means inflammation of the bronchi of the lungs. The bronchitis can be of two types, it can either be acute bronchitis or chronic bronchitis.

Definition:

Acute bronchitis is defined as, an acute infection of the mucous membrane of trachea and bronchi produced by viruses, bacteria or external irritants.

Causes of acute bronchitis in children:

Infection: This is the most common cause of bronchitis in children. The infection can be either bacterial or viral. It can also occur after a cold or infection in nasal sinuses and throat.
Irritants: This include physical and chemical irritants like inhaled dusts, strong fumes, steam, gases like SO2, ether, etc.
Allergic bronchitis following inhalation of allergens like pollen or organic dusts.

Risk factors of bronchitis:

These are the factors which reduce the susceptibility of the child and make them more prone to develop acute bronchitis. The child who is at risk may include:

A child suffering from asthma
A child with allergies e.g. pollen, dusts, perfumes, etc.
A child with enlarged tonsils and adenoids
A child who is exposed to second-hand smoke.
A child with chronic sinusitis.
A child who is exposed to outdoor pollution.
A child suffering from other serious health conditions.
A child who is born premature is at more risk to develop bronchitis.

Signs and symptoms

Acute bronchitis usually starts because of other illnesses like cold or flu. The common symptoms include:

Constant cough, it can be dry or mucus filled cough, congestion in chest.
Mucus which is coughed up can be green, yellow, white, or may have streaks of blood.
Pain in the chest especially while coughing or when the child takes deep breaths.
Sore throat and a runny nose. Runny nose occurs usually before the cough starts.
Fever, body ache and chills, over all unwell feeling.
There will be shortness of breath and wheezing sound can be heard from the chest while breathing.
The child might feel more tired than usual.

Generally, acute bronchitis is self-limiting, the child will be healed completely with fully return to the function, this is typically seen within 10-14 days from the onset of the above mentioned symptoms.

Diagnosis and test-

-Chest X-ray

-Sputum and nasal discharge test samples to be tested in laboratories

-Pulse Oximetry

Treatment and management:

As mentioned earlier, acute bronchitis is self-limiting, which means the patient can heal on its own without the aid of any treatment.

Although many cases might need symptomatic and supportive therapy, and medication.

If allopathic medication and other treatments are broadly looked, below approach is usually followed:-

For relief from cough, antitussive agents such as dextromethorphan and codeine are used to suppress the cough. Non pharmacologic therapy like throat lozenges, hot tea, honey and ginger is also suggested. However there is no scientific research conducted regarding its efficiency.
For relief from fever and body ache, antipyretic and analgesic agents are used.
To reduce inflammation, prednisone and other types of steroids are used.
For relief from wheezing, beta-antagonists are used.
Antibiotics when bacterial etiology is suspected.
Antivirals when viral etiology is suspected.
Lifestyle management like avoidance of allergens and pollutants, avoidance of second-hand smoke.

Homoeopathic management:

Few are the medicines which can be considered only under the supervision of a homeopathic medical practitioner (because their selection is based upon many factors) for acute bronchitis are as follows:

Bryonia alba

Bryonia is the top homoeopathic medicine which is used for treating bronchitis.

This remedy is often indicated when a cough is dry and very painful. The person feels worse from any movement, and may even need to hold his sides or press against the chest to keep it still.

The cough can make the stomach hurt, and digestion may be upset. A very dry mouth is common, and the person may be thirsty.

A person who wants to be left alone when ill, and not talked to or disturbed, is likely to need Bryonia.

Antimonium tart

Antimonium Tart is a very effective remedy for Bronchitis when the bronchial tubes are overloaded with mucus.

This remedy is indicated when the person has a feeling of wet mucus in the chest, and breathing makes a bubbly, rattling sound.
The cough takes effort and is often not quite strong enough to bring the mucus up, antimonium tart is of great help in emptying the bronchial tubes by aiding the expectoration of the mucus present in bronchial tubes.

The respiratory troubles after exposure to damp places frequently call for use of this Homeopathic remedy.

The person may feel drowsy or dizzy, and feel better when lying on the right side or sitting up.

Spongia tosta:

Spongia is indicated in patients presenting with dry cough and complete dryness of air passages. Cough is hollow barking type which wakes the child at night.
Feeling as if he had to breathe through dry sponge calls for this remedy.

There is a total absence of any mucus rales in chest. Mainly warm drinks provide relief to the patient.

The patient also at times complains of chest oppression, weakness and difficulty in breathing. There is a feeling of suffocation as from a plug or valve.

Pulsatilla Nigricans

Bronchitis with a feeling of weight in the chest, and a cough with choking and gagging that brings up thick yellow mucus, may respond to this remedy.

The cough tends to be dry and tight at night, and loose in the morning. The fever may be worse in the evening and at night.

Feeling too warm or being in a stuffy room tends to make the person worse, and open air brings improvement. Thirst is usually low or absent.

A person who needs this remedy often is moody and emotional and wants attention and sympathy. This remedy is often helpful to children who are tearful when not feeling well and want to be held and comforted.

Causticum

Bronchitis with a deep, hard, racking cough can indicate a need for this remedy.

The person feels that mucus is stuck in the throat and upper chest, and may cough continually to try to loosen it. A feeling of rawness and soreness can develop, or a sensation as if a rock is stuck inside.

Chills can occur along with fever. Exposure to cool air aggravates the cough, but drinking something cold can help.

The person may feel worse when days are cold and clear, and better in wet weather.
Homoeopathic medicines should be taken only when prescribed by a homeopathic physician. Self-medication may aggravate the original conditions.

Chicken Pox

CHICKEN POX

Introduction

Chickenpox is a common childhood illness that is caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is a highly contagious disease that is spread through the air by coughing or sneezing, or by direct contact with fluid from the blisters. The first symptoms of chickenpox typically appear 10 to 21 days after exposure and include a fever, headache, and a rash that starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. The rash begins as small, red bumps that develop into fluid-filled blisters and then crust over. The blisters eventually heal, but they can leave behind scars.

Chickenpox is usually a mild illness, but it can cause serious complications in some people, such as pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and secondary bacterial infections. The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get the chickenpox vaccine, which is highly effective in preventing the disease. Additionally, good hygiene practices, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with people who have chickenpox, can help reduce the risk of infection.

Definition

Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection that typically affects children. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus and is characterised by an itchy rash that appears on the skin and is accompanied by fever, fatigue, and muscle aches.

The rash typically consists of red bumps that turn into fluid-filled blisters, which eventually dry and form scabs. Chickenpox is usually a mild illness that lasts for about a week, but in some cases it can be more severe and even lead to complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis. After a person has recovered from chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in their body and reactivate later in life, causing a condition known as shingles.

Types of chickenpox

There is only one type of chickenpox, but it can have different presentations and severity levels. Here are some of the ways in which chickenpox can vary:

Mild chickenpox: This is the most common type of chickenpox and is characterized by a mild rash, low-grade fever, and mild symptoms.
Severe chickenpox: This type of chickenpox can be more serious, especially for people with weakened immune systems. It is characterized by a high fever, widespread rash, and severe symptoms such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and sepsis.
Complicated chickenpox: This type of chickenpox can occur when a person has a weakened immune system or is taking immunosuppressive drugs. It is characterized by severe skin and organ infections, as well as other complications.
Pneumonia-associated chickenpox: This type of chickenpox is characterized by severe pneumonia, which can be life-threatening in some cases.
Encephalitis-associated chickenpox: This type of chickenpox is characterized by inflammation of the brain, which can lead to severe neurological symptoms and even death.

It is important to note that these types of chickenpox are not distinct categories and a person with chickenpox can have symptoms that overlap multiple types.

Causes of chickenpox

Chickenpox is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is a type of herpes virus. The virus is highly contagious and spreads easily from person to person through the air or by direct contact with the fluid from chickenpox blisters.

A person who has never had chickenpox can catch the virus by breathing in the virus particles that are released into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. A person can also catch chickenpox by touching the fluid from chickenpox blisters and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.

Once a person is infected with the virus, it typically takes about 10 to 21 days for the symptoms of chickenpox to appear. After a person has recovered from chickenpox, the virus can remain dormant in their body and reactivate later in life, causing a condition known as shingles.

People who are at higher risk for chickenpox include children, adolescents, and adults who have not been vaccinated against the virus. Other factors that can increase a person’s risk for chickenpox include having a weakened immune system and being pregnant.

Risk factor for chickenpox

The following factors can increase a person’s risk for chickenpox:

Lack of vaccination: People who have not been vaccinated against chickenpox are at higher risk for getting the disease.
Age: Children, especially those under 12 years of age, are at higher risk for getting chickenpox. However, people of any age can get the disease.
Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or other autoimmune disorders, are at higher risk for getting severe cases of chickenpox.
Pregnancy: Pregnant women who have not had chickenpox before or been vaccinated against it are at higher risk for getting severe cases of the disease, which can be harmful to the foetus.
Exposure to the virus: People who have close contact with someone who has chickenpox are at higher risk for getting the disease. This includes household members, day care attendees, and healthcare workers.
Crowded living conditions: People who live in crowded conditions, such as in dormitories or refugee camps, are at higher risk for getting chickenpox because the virus spreads easily in close quarters.

It is important to take precautions to prevent the spread of chickenpox, especially if you are in one of the higher-risk groups. This includes getting vaccinated, washing your hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with people who have the disease.

Treatment and management of chickenpox

The following are some common treatments and management strategies for chickenpox:

Antiviral medication: Antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, can be used to shorten the duration and severity of chickenpox. These medications work by stopping the virus from replicating and spreading in the body.
Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen, can be used to relieve pain and reduce fever associated with chickenpox.
Soothing baths: Taking lukewarm baths with baking soda, oatmeal, or colloidal oatmeal can help to relieve itching and soothe the skin.
Calamine lotion: Calamine lotion can be applied to the skin to relieve itching and dry up blisters.
Bed rest: It is important to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated during the course of the illness.
Prevention of secondary infections: It is important to keep the blisters clean and covered to prevent secondary infections. This can be achieved by using sterile bandages or dressing the blisters with petroleum jelly.
Vaccination: The best way to prevent chickenpox is to get vaccinated. The chickenpox vaccine is safe and effective and provides long-lasting protection against the disease.

It is important to seek medical attention if you or your child develops symptoms of chickenpox, especially if you have a weakened immune system or are pregnant. Your healthcare provider can recommend appropriate treatment and management strategies based on your individual needs and circumstances.

Homeopathic Management for chickenpox

Homoeopathy management include a well-taken case with the individualistic totality of all mental and physical symptoms and then selecting a specific remedy on the basis of the former. This is the best treatment choice.

Few are the medicines which can be considered only under the supervision of a homeopathic medical practitioner (because their selection is based upon many factors) for chickenpox are as follows:

Belladonna: This remedy is used for individuals who have a high fever and a bright red rash with hot, swollen skin.

Indicated for chickenpox in individuals who have symptoms such as high fever, bright red rash with hot, swollen skin, and rapid pulse. Belladonna is typically used in individuals who develop sudden, severe symptoms, and who may feel extremely warm, with a dry and red face.

Rhus toxicodendron: This remedy is used for individuals who have a blistering rash that itches intensely, especially when the affected area is warm.

Indicated for chickenpox in individuals who have symptoms such as a blistering rash that itches intensely, especially when the affected area is warm. Rhus tox may also be helpful for individuals who experience stiffness, restlessness, and a desire to move, as well as those who have symptoms that worsen in the evenings and improve with

Sulphur: This remedy is used for individuals who have a widespread rash with itching and burning sensations.

Individuals who have symptoms such as a widespread rash with itching and burning sensations, as well as those who experience a general feeling of heat and restlessness. Sulphur may also be helpful for individuals who have a tendency to sweat profusely and who may have a strong, unpleasant body odour.

Apis mellifica: This remedy is used for individuals who have a rash with intense itching and stinging pain, and whose symptoms worsen with warmth and improve with cool compresses.

Individuals who have symptoms such as a rash with intense itching and burning sensations, as well as swelling and redness of the affected area. Apis Mellifica may also be helpful for individuals who experience general feelings of heat and restlessness.

Variolinum: This remedy is used for individuals who have been exposed to chickenpox and who are at risk of developing the disease.

Variolinum is a homeopathic remedy that is made from smallpox virus and may be indicated for the treatment of chickenpox in individuals who have symptoms such as a widespread rash with blisters, intense itching, and a high fever. Variolinum may also be helpful for individuals who experience restlessness and a general feeling of heat.

Homoeopathic medicines should be taken only when prescribed by a homoeopathic physician. Self-medication may aggravate the original conditions.