My son is five years old and very active as all kids his age are I suppose. He came up with a cough a week back after he had a glass of cold water. My wife gave him a cough syrup that she normally gives him. When the cough didn't subside, we took him to the doctor and he told us that our son is suffering from Bronchitis and may have to be hospitalised for two to three days. My questions to you are:
1.- What is Bronchitis?
2.- Is this something that stays with the person throughout his life?
3.- What and how will this affect his growing years and adulthood?
4.- What should we as parents do? Luqman Hameed
Bronchitis is an infection of bronchial tubes which lead to the lungs. It is mostly caused by a virus and can occur two to three times in a year. Do not worry as this does not stay throughout a person's life. As soon as you see that the child is getting malaise and flu, start giving some anti-allergic syrup, steam and nose drops. Flu vaccine is easily available. Get your child vaccinated every year as this gives at least 60 per cent protection from such viruses. Give some multi-vitamins like Vitamin A and D. They improve immunity against the viruses.
My 6-month-old daughter has been diagnosed with blocked tear ducts. Her doctor said that if they do not clear by 9 months, she should undergo a minor surgery. I wish to prevent this if possible. Is there any hope for the ducts to clear by themselves? I have also heard that massaging the ducts helps them unblock. Is this something you would advise? If so, how should I go about doing this? Is there anything else that could be done? Worried mom
Blocked tear ducts are common and is not a very serious problem. The eyes do not get injured because of it. This condition may take many months to subside. The tendency is out grown in most cases even if nothing is done. If, after a year, it still persists, an eye doctor can clear the duct with a simple procedure. When the lids are stuck together, you can soften the crust and open them by gently applying warm water with clean fingers. If the problem stays, it is advised to consult a paediatric ophthalmologist for surgery.
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