Archives for November 2007

Most people do not know the proper way to stop nosebleeds. The methods I hear about most often include putting a cold compress on the bridge of the nose, leaning forward, or having the child tilt his head back so his nose is pointing up in the air. The reason such remedies abound is because people don’t realize that 95% of the time, the bleeding is coming from the nasal … [Read more...] about How to Stop Nosebleeds

Nosebleeds are common in children for the following four reasons: Frequent colds Nose picking (and other injuries to the nose) Dry air (especially in the wintertime) Allergies The reason these situations lead to nosebleeds is because they all irritate the lining of the nasal septum (this is the name of the cartilage that separates your nostrils). … [Read more...] about How to Prevent Nosebleeds

Next to colds, throat infections are the most common reason children see the doctor. It is important to realize, however, that young children do not know what it means when someone asks them if they have a sore throat. Therefore, if you’re inquiring about this symptom, ask your child if it hurts when he swallows. You’d be surprised how many children will say yes to this … [Read more...] about Young Children Don’t Know What “Sore Throat” Means

Before prescribing antibiotics for children, doctors ask if the child has any known drug allergies. It’s not uncommon in this situation for parents to mention their own history of drug allergy. A doctor’s standard response is to reassure parents that their child is unlikely to be allergic to a medication just because they are. I have had two experiences that illustrate … [Read more...] about Be Careful If Your Child Is Taking an Antibiotic You’re Allergic To