Signs of the Flu in Toddlers
Most toddlers are vaccinated against the flu, however, in some cases, children are still contracting the virus. It is important to watch for the signs and symptoms of the flu, so you can get immediate care and the proper diagnosis to treat the toddler accordingly. Contact the child's pediatrician if the flu is suspected.
Headache
A toddler who complains of a headache may be showing a sign of the flu. Sometimes it is hard to understand exactly what a toddler is attempting to explain, however, complaining of a headache should be fairly simple. Depending on whether the child has any other signs of the flu, a children's pain medicine may be administered to relieve the pain temporarily. If the headache returns, consult the toddler's pediatrician and schedule an appointment.
Fever
Fever is common in toddlers, especially those toddlers who are around other children on a daily basis. It is easy to pick up infections but not always easy overcoming the illness, especially if it is the flu. A fever higher than 103 degrees Fahrenheit should be of concern to the parent and an appointment with the pediatrician should be scheduled immediately. A rectal thermometer should be used to get an accurate reading. Be sure Vaseline is swabbed around the tip of the thermometer to ensure comfort and ease.
Extreme Fatigue
Most toddlers are active, always running around and into something. Parents usually welcome much-needed breaks, especially when the toddler is napping. However, if a toddler seems to be fatigued with no energy whatsoever and has no desire to get up and play, the child may be showing signs of the flu. The fatigue can sometimes be accompanied with a high fever. Call the toddler's pediatrician immediately to schedule an appointment if the fatigue worsens.
Upper Respiratory Problems
Toddlers often contract colds or viral infections, which may include a runny or stuffy nose and a hacking cough. It is normal to see the pediatrician's office full of small children on any given day with upper respiratory problems. However, a problem that lasts more than a few days and seems to be getting worse may be a sign that the toddler has the flu. These signs may also be accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue and a high fever.
Nausea, Vomiting and Diarrhea
Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may be a sign that a toddler has the flu. Offer the toddler small amounts of liquids to help keep the body from becoming dehydrated. Small children are often admitted to the hospital because their bodies are not able to stay hydrated during extreme bouts of vomiting and diarrhea. Call the toddler's pediatrician if the child experiences vomiting and diarrhea for more than a day or if it is accompanied with a high fever.
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