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Posted: 4:20 PM Nov 19, 2008
What's Going Around
Illnesses Affecting Children It starts off as a cold, but one of our Channel Six doctors say it turns into something more.
Reporter: Tracy Madden Email Address: sixonline@wowt.com |
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It starts off as a cold, but one of our Channel Six doctors says it turns into something more.
Doctor Steven Sindelar in Bellevue is seeing children with prolonged upper respiratory illness which contributes to sinus infections.
The runny nose and congestion give way to a headache, facial pressure, and sore teeth as the sinus infection settles in. Sinus infections can be associated with ear infections and may lead to eye discharge.
While very uncomfortable, not every sinus infection needs to be treated with antibiotics. Doctor Sindelar suggests using a humidifier. Decongestants are also an option for children over the age of six.
Sinus infections are not contagious, but they do last a while, sometimes up to four weeks.
In Northwest Omaha, Doctor Reema Nasr is seeing Gastroenteritis.
If a child has diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting, stop all solid food. Fluids lost should be replaced with clear liquids. Sports drinks are good to replace electrolytes. All drinks should be at room temperature. Avoid caffeinated drinks, dairy products, and ice as they can irritate the stomach.
As symptoms disappear, use the "BRAT" diet: bananas, rice, apples, and toast.
See a doctor if symptoms last longer than 48 hours.
In Midtown, Doctor Amy Lacroix reminds us when we turn on the heat and the air gets dry, nose bleeds start. They're very common if a child has allergies, and can last for up to five minutes.
To stop one, keep the child sitting up, tip his head forward, and squeeze the bridge of the nose with a wash cloth the entire time. If the bleeding doesn't stop, try again for five minutes.
The best way to prevent nose bleeds is by using a saline nasal spray, a moisturizer around the nose, and a cool mist humidifier.







