AT-A-GLANCE

This page contains brief, snap-shot descriptions of the diseases and illnesses

reported on in the pages of this web site.

For a more in-depth description, click the link at the end of each summary -

Or visit the Free eBook page.

Chickenpox At a Glance …

 -A very common, highly contagious disease.
 -The most common indicators are general mild flu-like symptoms along with 250-500 or more itchy, fluid filled blisters on the face, arms, legs, torso, and scalp.
 -Chickenpox is highly contagious, and can be spread by direct contact and airborne transmission.
 -Serious (but rare) complications can result from the disease, and medical treatment should be obtained if there is any sign of these occurring.   Varicella Zoster.

 Measles at a Glance …

 -A once common, fairly contagious disease.
 -The most common indicators are high temperature, hacking cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and a spreading rash.
 -Transmission is airborne or through direct contact with infected droplets or saliva, which are ejected from the body during coughing and sneezing.
 -Because measles is caused by a virus, it cannot be treated with antibiotics.  Like most viral illnesses, a measles infection (in the vast majority of cases) can simply be left to run its course.  Fortunately, most children and adults recover from an uncomplicated case of measles within 2-3 weeks.
 -Usually, all that is required for measles sufferers is treatment of their symptoms, with paracetamol, regular rinsing of the mouth, and plenty to drink.
 -Serious (but rare) complications can result from the disease, and medical treatment should be obtained if there is any sign of these occurring.  Measles

Mumps At a Glance …

 -A once common, fairly contagious disease.
 -The most common indicators are high temperature, loss of appetite, and a swelling at the back of one or both cheeks.
 -Transmission is airborne or through direct contact with infected droplets or saliva, which are ejected from the body during coughing and sneezing.
 -Because mumps is caused by a virus, it cannot be treated with antibiotics.  Like most viral illnesses, a mumps infection (in the vast majority of cases) can simply be left to run its course. Fortunately, most children and adults recover from an uncomplicated case of mumps within 2-3 weeks.
 -Usually, all that is required for mumps sufferers is treatment of their symptoms, with paracetamol, regular rinsing of the mouth, and plenty to drink.
 -Serious (but rare) complications can result from the disease, and medical treatment should be obtained if there is any sign of these occurring.   Mumps
  
Meningitis At a Glance …

 -Meningitis is serious condition that involves an inflammation of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord, called the meninges.
 -Meningitis may be caused by bacterial or viral infection, and by some species of fungi, protozoa, and other parasites.
 -The most common symptoms include : fever, lethargy, irritability, headaches, photophobia (eye sensitivity to light), and a stiff neck, but there can be a range of other symptoms as well.
 -Newborns and infants with meningitis may not show all of these common symptoms.  Instead they may simply be extremely irritable or lethargic.
 -If you suspect that you or your child has Meningitis seek immediate professional medical advice.   Meningitis
 
High Fever At a Glance …

 -Fevers are not the enemy.
 -Raising the bodies temperature can give the body an advantage over the infectious agent by making conditions less suitable for its survival and reproduction.
 -Fever also activates the body's immune system defences, accelerating the production of white blood cells, antibodies, and other infection-fighting agents.
 -However, anyone who has a fever greater than 105°F (40.5°C) should seek medical attention.
 -A High Fever may be caused by mumps, measles, meningitis, or any of a large number of other serious and not-so-serious diseases – seek medical advice.   High Fever

 Colds (and Coughs) At a Glance...

 -Very contagious viral infection, easily spread from child to child.
 -Runny or stuffy nose and tiredness, with fever and sore throat.
 -Can develop into Bronchitis or Pneumonia.
 -The healthy body will fight off colds in a few days.
 -Could go onto be a chest cold, giving wheezing noise to breathing.
 -Best to keep child at home for at least 24 hours after symptoms have gone.
 -Strengthening the immune systems is the best defence.
 -Remedies are available from all Pharmacy for relief of symptoms.  Colds flu ear-ache

Flu (influenza) At a Glance...

 -Also a viral infection.
 -Affects the Respiratory and the Intestinal systems.
 -Contagious infection passed by respiratory secretions from someone who is ill.
 -Headaches, chills, muscle aches, high temperature and lasting fatigue.
 -Cannot be treated with antibiotics.
 -Patient needs rest, plenty of fluids and Tylenol.
 -Relief from symptoms also available from any Pharmacy.  Colds flu ear-ache

Ear Infections At a Glance...

 -Most common infection to affect children.
 -Bacteria from nose or throat enter the ear.
 -Pain in ear usually, high temperature, irritable child and sometimes dizziness.
 -Pain can be worse at night while lying down.
 -Gentle heat to the ear can give relief, and Tylenol.   Colds flu ear-ache

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD or ADHD) At a Glance...

-What is ADD or ADHD?
-With Hyperactivity easily recognised and diagnosed.
-Without hyperactivity not so easy to diagnose.
-Symptoms lessen in teenagers and into adulthood.
-Many signs and symptoms to look out for.
-Varied reasons for ADD symptoms.    Attention Defecit Disorder

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