Baby Thermometers Are Easy to Handle and Accurate

Baby Thermometer and Its Significance in Child Treatment

To know how to read your child's temperature is an important part of parenthood and will most likely be necessary several times during the child's upbringing. A rectal measure gives the most accurate reading regardless of age. A healthy child should have a temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, but the temperature could vary a degree or so throughout the day without cause for worry. Whenever you are in doubt, a physician should always be called, especially if the fever persists over several days. During illness it is quite normal for your body's temperature to rise. The reasons for this are not fully understood but it is believed that a rise in body temperature reduces the rate of reproduction of various micro-organisms making it much easier for the body to fight off illness.

Monitoring your baby's core body temperature during illness is very important for two reasons. Firstly, it gives an indication of the progress of the illness. If the temperature is getting higher it normally means that the illness is developing; if it is falling lower it normally means that the illness is passing. Secondly and more importantly however, during illness the body sometimes overreacts and the body temperature rises far too high. Although very rare thus can lead to fitting, coma and even death.

Which type of thermometer is best? Are thermometer guidelines different for babies and older children? Here's what you need to know to take your child's temperature.

Thermometer options
A glass mercury thermometer was once a staple in most medicine cabinets. Today, mercury thermometers are no longer recommended because they can break and allow mercury to vaporize and be inhaled. When choosing a thermometer, consider these options:
• Digital thermometers. These thermometers use electronic heat sensors to record body temperature. They can be used in the rectum (rectal), mouth (oral) or armpit (axillary). Armpit temperatures, however, are typically the least accurate of the three.
•  Digital ear thermometers (tympanic membrane). These thermometers use an infrared ray to measure the temperature inside the ear canal. Keep in mind that earwax or a small, curved ear canal can interfere with the accuracy of an ear thermometer temperature.
•  Digital pacifier thermometer. Your child simply sucks on the pacifier until the peak temperature is recorded.
•  Temporal artery thermometers. These thermometers use an infrared scanner to measure the temperature of the temporal artery in the forehead.

Safety tips
•  Whatever type of thermometer you use, carefully read the instructions that come with it. Before and after each use, clean the tip of the thermometer with rubbing alcohol or soap and lukewarm water.

•  If you plan to use a digital thermometer to take a rectal temperature, get another digital thermometer for oral use. Label each thermometer, and don't use the same thermometer in both places.

•  For safety - and to make sure the thermometer stays in place never leave your child unattended while you're taking his or her temperature.

The best type of thermometer  or the best place to insert the thermometer, in some cases — depends on your child's age.
• Birth to 3 months. Use a regular digital thermometer to take a rectal temperature. New research suggests that a temporal artery thermometer might also provide accurate readings in newborns.

• 3 months to 4 years. A rectal temperature provides the best readings for children up to age 3. In this age range you can also use a digital thermometer to take an armpit temperature, a temporal artery thermometer or a digital pacifier thermometer. However, wait until your baby is at least 6 months old to use a digital ear thermometer. If you use another type of thermometer to take a young child's temperature and you're in doubt about the results, take a rectal temperature.

• 4 years and older. By age 4, most kids can hold a digital thermometer under the tongue for the short time it takes to get a temperature reading. You can also use a regular digital thermometer to take an armpit temperature, a temporal artery thermometer or a digital ear thermometer.

Conventional thermometers are not easy to use on your baby. The oral route requires cooperation, the underarm route is less accurate and the rectal route is unpleasant and causes discomfort. Conventional thermometers are also very slow as it takes time for the bulb to rise to body temperature before an accurate and stable reading can be obtained.

How it's done
1. Rectal temperature. Turn on the digital thermometer and lubricate the tip of the thermometer with petroleum jelly. Lay your baby or child on his or her back, lift his or her thighs, and insert the lubricated thermometer 1/2 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 centimeters) into the rectum. Stop if you feel any resistance. Hold the thermometer in place until the thermometer signals that it's done. Remove the thermometer and read the number.

2. Oral temperature. Turn on the digital thermometer. Place the tip of the thermometer under your child's tongue and ask your child to keep his or her lips closed. Remove the thermometer when it signals that it's done and read the number. If your child has been eating or drinking, wait at least 30 minutes to take his or her temperature by mouth. If your child is too congested to breathe through his or her nose, you might need to use another method.

3. Armpit temperature. Turn on the digital thermometer. When you place the thermometer under your child's armpit, make sure it touches skin not clothing. Hold the thermometer tightly in place until the thermometer signals that it's done. Remove the thermometer and read the number.

4. Ear temperature. Turn on the thermometer. Gently place the thermometer in your child's ear. Follow the directions that come with thermometer to ensure you insert the thermometer the proper distance into the ear canal. Hold the thermometer tightly in place until the thermometer signals that it's done. Remove the thermometer and read the number.

5. Temporal artery temperature. Turn on the thermometer. Gently sweep the thermometer across your child's forehead. Remove the thermometer and read the number.

Before purchasing thermometers, you need to know the different types of thermometer:

Digital Baby Thermometer
These digital thermometers are just like the old mercury ones, but they are the improved ones. With this type, you don't need to shake to have mercury down. You can get a good reading right away. Also, no hazardous mercury will be spilled once it is broken.

This digital is used when taking temperature in rectal and auxiliary areas for infants. Once the child is older, this thermometer can be placed in the mouth. When you use a digital for taking rectal temperature, once you've done it correctly, you may get an accurate reading. This is the reason why children are taken temperature this way in the hospital.

Pacifier Baby Thermometer
It is a breeze when you give a child a pacifier. And with that though comes the pacifier. It makes the temperature reading hassle free. In the nipple of the pacifier, the thermometer is being placed and a digital screen is placed in front to show the reading. But this one is not recommended to have an accurate reading at all. Some are not equipped with alarm to tell the parents that the reading is done. And sometimes, they may slip out of the mouth.

Ear Baby Thermometer
This type of thermometer is also called aural or tympanic. This type of uses infrared sensors to indicate the body temperature. This thermometer works quickly. But, the readings of an ear thermometer is said to be inaccurate. The readings may vary. For toddlers and older children, inaccuracy of small degree is not that important. However, with new babies, accuracy is very much important. Though using ear thermometer is easier that rectal thermometer, still, you should not compromise the accuracy.

Temporal Artery Baby Thermometers
This is the latest type of thermometers. This baby thermometer can gauge body temperature just by scanning it on the forehead, making it easier and gentle for sleeping babes. There are studies that say that temporal artery thermometer is as accurate as rectal. Also, other studies supported this one and say that this is better than the rectal as it can identify the changes rapidly.

There are many probabilities of getting a fever, particularly when there is seasonal change. So, it's quite possible that the baby's temperature may rise. There are multiple reasons behind that, like when a human falls prey to a certain disease, the body's reproduction system of microorganism slows down, which increases temperature. Your first job as a parent here is to calculate the temperature, a simple baby thermometer will be sufficient for you in doing this job.

Some people might not take this as an important thing to do. However, remember monitoring the temperature is highly important from three perspectives. First, it gives you an idea about the present condition of the baby. Secondly, you can judge the progress of the illness such as whether it is rising or falling. Another important aspect that you cannot and should not ignore is that sometimes, the temperature gets too high owing to overreaction by the body. This can lead to serious problems, which although rare , should not be ignored.

Although it's over-emphasizing, but for young parents, it's very important to know that for babies, conventional thermometers are not used. This is because, the oral devices require that the patient must cooperate, and it also sounds a bit uncomfortable for the little angels. Moreover, traditional thermometers are also sluggish and take a bit of time to give you an accurate analysis of the body. Conversely, a specialized baby thermometer might be very helpful and prove to be good alternative for you.

Instructions
1. Turn on the digital thermometer and choose between Fahrenheit and Celsius reading.
2. Apply petroleum jelly or other lubricant to the tip of the thermometer.
3. Insert the thermometer short of 1 inch into the child's rectum without any force or pressure and wait for the reading to be ready.
4. Read the temperature off the thermometer.
5.Clean the thermometer thoroughly with soap and warm water.

Earlier, they were expensive, so people could not buy them out easily. So they had to go the doctors to get the baby checked by specialized devices. However, nowadays, the thermometers are available for households and can be bought for some dollars.If you don't have it, preferably buy an ear thermometer for your babies because it will give you further ease and will not irritate the baby as well. Moreover, a baby ear thermometer is highly accurate because it analyzes with the help of ears and brain which control the body. Additionally, it is quicker and gives you accurate results very briskly. You can search on the web and get the one of your choice as per your specifications and price range at a nearby store.

In addition to this, you must keep the internal temperature of home/room at a position prescribed by your physician. Never rely on a general doctor, always consult some child specialist for this matter.

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Children Hair Care

Children Hair Care

Shiny hair is a sign of health because the layers of the cuticle lie flat and reflect light. When the scales of the cuticle lie flat they overlap tightly, so the inner layers are well protected from heat, sun, chlorine, and all the other hazards that can come from living in our environment. When hair is damaged, though, the scales may separate and hair can become dry. Because the scales on dry hair don't protect the inner two layers as well, hair can break and look dull.

People with dry, curly hair have different hair care needs than people with straight, fine hair. But all hair needs to be treated gently, especially when it's wet. Wet hair can stretch, making it more vulnerable to breakage or cuticle damage. That's why using a hot blow-dryer (or other heat styling products) on very wet hair can damage it. Long, high heat causes bubbles to form in the hair shaft, which causes them to break easily.

Some people find that their hair gets oily in their teen years. That's because the hair follicles contain sebaceous glands that make sebum, which moisturizes the hair and skin. During adolescence, the sebaceous glands may become overactive due to hormone changes during puberty, producing more oil than needed. As with acne, oily hair is usually a temporary part of puberty. If your hair is dry, it's a good idea to wash it less frequently. Some people only need to wash their hair once a week  and that's fine. Many people who have curly hair also have dry hair. Curly and dry hair types are usually more fragile than straight hair, so you'll need to be especially careful about using heat styling products. Shampoos made for dry hair and hair conditioners can help.

Baby Hair
The hair of a baby is very fine and very fragile. It is easily worn off the back of the head just from laying in the crib. This is one reason you need to be very gentle (and patient!) Only use a soft baby brush or comb. Never use an adult brush on the babies head as it can damage the scalp and break off the hair easily. If cradle cap is a problem, use oils specifically to soften the affected area for easy removal. Never pick it off as this causes sores on the head and hair could come out as well.

Cleansing
Children's hair needs cleansing and conditioning regularly. No tears products are important to reduce trauma that may be associated with washing. There are a many hair products especially formulated for children's hair and more are arriving every day! Be sure to wet down hair thoroughly and apply conditioner before swimming in chlorinated pools to prevent damage. When washing and conditioning, use a conditioner that is lightweight on the hair but avoid the scalp. Sea Critters makes a great leave in detangler for kids!

Trims
Trim the hair first at about a year. Hair grows by about one half inch per month and grows at a faster rate in the spring and summer than in autumn and winter. Even if there isn't much hair there, just have the very tips trimmed by a stylist. The tips are a different texture since they were the first to grow from the scalp. After that about every 6-8 months will do. Only the very ends at this time. Don't worry about any particular style and getting the hair all one length - that will come later. Do not cut bangs into the hair! Once hair reaches the collar, it can be evened up around the perimeter into a bob. From there minimum maintenance is required to keep it growing.

The Problem with Bangs
Cutting in bangs will cause problems as the hair becomes longer. Hair tends to have a natural growth pattern of straight forward on young children. Don't be tempted to cut bangs to "keep it out of the eyes" because the hair in her eyes will eventually cover her ears. How often do you see children with the back long and the sides thin and short? This is because bangs were cut. Don't even do it once because they become more difficult to grow out as the hair texture changes.

Styling while growing hair out
Use only terry cloth pony tail holders on the hair. They don't hold as well as bands, but this fragile hair can show breakage easily from other types of pony tail holders. While the front and top are growing out, gather the hair into a topknot. It can be off to the side, straight up, or adorned with ribbons and bows.

Provide well balanced diet for kids
When you have growing kids at home, plan a well balanced diet for the whole family. Try to add a lot of vegetables and fruits in your regular diet daily. In order to have hair growth in kids faster, provide them protein rich food. You can also give them food items that are rich in iron and calcium too.  

Eating for healthy hair
• Adding certain foods to can actually promote hair growth and give children the nourishment their bodies need.

• Peanuts, corn, and spinach contain Vitamin E, which stimulates hair growth.

• Folic acid, found in foods like asparagus, peas, citrus fruits, and turkey, will help promote hair growth by strengthening strands so they don’t break off prematurely.

• Drinking water four to six glasses a day will keep hair hydrated.

• Vitamin B produces keratin, a protein that strengthens strands. Found in bananas, whole-grain cereals, rice and eggs.

• Dairy products like skim milk and yogurt as well as broccoli and strawberries–are great sources of calcium, an important mineral for hair growth.

• Regular trips to the salon for routine trims are another trick that keeps hair healthy.

Children Hair Care Tips:
• Wash hair with a mild shampoo. As soon as they are old enough teach them how to shampoo and rinse their hair.

• Untangle hair before washing. With a wide tooth comb start at the bottom of the hair and work your way up. If there are problem tangles and rats, spray with a good detangler.

• Encourage your child to comb or brush their own hair. If hair is wet use a comb to minimize hair breakage.

• Routine is imperative. By instilling proper hair grooming at a young age a parent is creating life long habits for their child. Habits that will help them become more confident.

• Perhaps it's because my dad was a barber and my mom a beautician that I grew up knowing it was a requirement to comb my hair. And that I had to come to the table with my hair combed, with hands and face cleaned. These are just basic grooming tips that can have lifelong effects.
 

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Children Oral Care and Preventing Tooth Decay

Children Oral Care and Preventing Tooth Decay

Proper care of your child's teeth and gums includes brushing and rinsing, routine dental exams, and any necessary treatments such as fluoride, extractions, fillings, or braces and other orthodontics. Healthy teeth and gums are essential to your child's overall good health. Injured, diseased, or poorly developed teeth can result in poor nutrition, painful and dangerous infections, and problems with speech development and self-image.

Caring for Kids Teeth
Nothing is as special as your child’s happy, healthy smile. As a parent, you know it’s important to learn how to care for your child’s oral health.

Caring for an Infant Teeth
Even though newborns and infants do not have teeth, it is important to take care of their mouth and gums. Follow these tips:
• Use a damp washcloth to wipe your infant's gums after each meal.
• Do NOT put your infant or young child to bed with a bottle of milk, juice, or sugar water. Use only water for bedtime bottles.
• Begin using a soft toothbrush instead of a washcloth to clean your child's teeth as soon as his first tooth shows (usually between 5 - 8 months of age).
• Ask your pediatrician if your infant needs fluoride added to his diet.

Caring for a Child's Teeth
• Parents and caregivers often share spoons, forks, and other utensils with babies. The saliva you may leave on the utensil contains bacteria that can cause tooth decay. Sometimes, kissing can also transfer bacteria. You can help prevent early childhood tooth decay in your child by making sure that your family practices good dental health habits. Keeping your own teeth and gums healthy reduces the risk of transferring tooth decay bacteria to your child.

• Do not put your infant or small child to bed with a bottle of milk, formula, juice, or other product that contains sugar. The sugar and acids in these liquids can cause tooth decay (bottle mouth camera). Do not prop the bottle up in your baby's mouth. Remove the bottle as soon as your baby is done feeding or is asleep. Breast-feeding your infant to sleep is safe, however. Encourage your baby to begin drinking from a cup at about 4 to 6 months of age.

• Discuss your child's fluoride needs with your dentist if your local water supply does not contain enough fluoride. To find out, call your local water company or health department. If you have your own well, have your water checked to determine whether your family needs fluoride from other sources. You may also need to provide fluoride to your children if you use bottled water for cooking or drinking. Normal amounts of fluoride added to public water supplies and bottled water are safe for children and adults. If your child needs extra fluoride, your dentist may recommend supplements. Use these supplements only as directed. And keep them out of reach of your child. Too much fluoride can be toxic and can stain a child's teeth.

• Give your child nutritious foods to maintain healthy gums, develop strong teeth, and avoid tooth decay. These include whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. Try to avoid foods that are high in sugar and processed carbohydrates, such as pastries, pasta, and white bread.

• Do not give your child mouthwashes that contain alcohol. If your child age 6 or older has cavities, ask the dentist if your child should try mouthwash that contains fluoride. But watch to make sure your child does not swallow it.

• Keep your child away from cigarette smoke (secondhand smoke). Tobacco smoke may contribute to the development of tooth decay, gum disease, and other health issues.1 As your child grows, teach him or her about the dangers of smoking and secondhand smoke.

• Children play hard, sometimes hard enough to knock out or break a tooth. Learn how to prevent injuries to teeth and what to do in a dental emergency.

• If your child sucks his or her fingers or thumb, help your child to stop. If the child can't stop, see your dentist.

Brushing and flossing
• Start cleaning your child's teeth with a soft cloth or gauze pad as soon as the teeth come in. As more teeth erupt, clean teeth with a soft toothbrush.

• Because too much fluoride can be toxic and can stain a child's teeth, ask your doctor or dentist if it's okay to use fluoride toothpaste. Brush your child's teeth for the first few years, until your child can do it alone (usually at about age 3). Teach your child not to swallow the toothpaste.

• Your child can learn how to brush his or her own teeth at about age 3. Children should be brushing their own teeth morning and night by age 4, although you should supervise and check for proper cleaning.

• Give your child a small, soft toothbrush, and apply fluoridated toothpaste in an amount about the size of a small green pea. Encourage your child to watch you and older siblings brush camera teeth. A good teaching method is to have your child brush in the morning and you brush at night until your child masters the skill.

• Start flossing your child's teeth as soon as they touch each other. You may find plastic flossing tools camera helpful. Talk with your dentist about the right timing and technique to floss your child's teeth and how to teach your child to floss.

• Use disclosing tablets from time to time to see whether any plaque is left on the teeth after brushing. Disclosing tablets are chewable and will color any plaque left on the teeth after the child brushes. You can buy these at myotcstore.com

Improper oral hygiene and tooth decay
Poor diet and nutrition, improper hygiene, and the pressure to use fluoride all contribute to the state of our children’s teeth. Developing good oral health habits at an early age will last a lifetime and significantly improve a child’s overall health. A major cause of tooth decay in children is poor diet and nutrition. The prominence of sugary drinks and snacks means the average child doesn’t get enough minerals or vitamins. Their diets lack healthy food choices and contain too many foods high in carbohydrates, starches, and sugar often resulting in mineral and vitamin deficiencies.

Consistent and frequent consumption of refined sugar, sugary soft drinks, and many processed foods can cause rapid demineralization of your child’s teeth. This includes the enamel and dentin, which is formed during the bacterial fermentation of the dietary sugars. The sugars in many of these foods and drinks serve as food for mouth borne bacteria. And when a child regularly snacks between meals, bacteria in the mouth feeds on the supply of food and produces acids that attack tooth enamel. These acid attacks slowly dissolve away minerals from the tooth structure and weaken it over time.

In addition to impoverished diet and nutrition, poor dental hygiene is a significant factor in tooth decay. Over 60 percent of parents with children aged 12 or younger didn’t regularly help their children brush their teeth. However, teaching kids the importance of proper oral hygiene at a young age will definitely go a long way towards developing good habits. These habits will, in turn, lead to good oral health and prevent potentially painful and expensive problems down the road.

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If you don’t regularly help or teach kids how to properly brush their teeth and if you don’t emphasize how often they should be brushing their teeth, they’ll likely develop poor hygiene and oral problems. Problems in your child’s mouth can also affect their body’s health in later life.

What role does nutrition play in healthy dental development?
Healthy eating habits lead to healthy teeth. Many snacks that children eat can lead to the formation of cavities. Try to limit your child's snacks. If your child must snack, choose nutritious foods such as vegetables, low-fat yogurt and low-fat cheese.

What types of toothpaste do children like?
A good way to encourage your child's dental hygiene is by using a pleasantly flavored fluoride toothpaste. The taste and appearance of a toothpaste can make brushing a more enjoyable experience, so children are more likely to brush twice each day and brush for longer periods of time. Appropriate brushing can help prevent cavities, gum disease and other dental health issues. Children age 6 or less should brush twice a day using no more than a pea-sized dab of toothpaste and a soft-bristle brush to remove plaque and provide fluoride protection. Before age 2, children should not use toothpaste that contains fluoride.

Preventing tooth decay and naturally
In healthy children, new dentin and enamel is constantly being generated from vitamins, minerals and enzymes in their bloodstream. Although the process is slow, the proper vitamins and mineral ratios in your child’s body help counter the process caused by the breaking down of dietary sugars. If the ratios of minerals and nutrients in your child’s body are out of balance, it simply cannot replace the teeth cells properly before the disease, or tooth decay, takes over.

So if your child’s diet involves less healthy food choices and more sugary snacks, sugary drinks, starches, etc, it affects the ratio of minerals and nutrients in their body, and it cannot match or replenish the decaying process. In short, this process of avoiding and stopping tooth decay simply boils down to proper diet and nutrition. Many studies have pointed out that bodies deficient in vitamin D, vitamin K2, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and many other vitamins are more likely to experience tooth decay and oral health problems. According to the Vitamin D Council, studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased cavities.

Teaching proper brushing is also important. Instructing kids and checking if they are brushing correctly is essential to maintain a healthy smile. Finally, make it fun. Kids’ toothbrushes have different colors and models these days. Cars, toys, cartoon figures and much more fun types of toothbrush give parents plenty of choices. Selecting a favorite flavor for the toothpaste can also make the difference. Get strawberry flavor if your kid loves strawberry. Healthy dental care should start early to prevent future problems. Oral care at home is the best way to get it started.

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Essential Vitamin For Children

Vitamin For Children And Its Importance In Daily Life

Good nutrition starts by serving a wide variety of whole, fresh foods as much as possible. That's far better than serving up fast foods or convenience foods and hoping that taking a kids' vitamin will undo any nutritional no-no's. You'll find the most vitamins and minerals in foods high in carbohydrates and proteins (rather than fats). By far, the most high-vitamin foods of all are fresh fruits and vegetables.

To give children more vitamins, aim for more variety not simply more food. Twice as many kids today are overweight than just two decades ago, so use kid-sized food portions, which are one-quarter to one-third the size of adult portions. Spread the variety of foods into several small meals and snacks throughout the day. If your child won't eat a particular food for a few days like vegetables don't fret. But reintroduce those foods again a day or two later, perhaps prepared in a different way.

If your child is on a limited diet due to allergies or finicky eating, you may be wondering if they are getting enough of the most important vitamins and minerals each and every day. Using a high end children’s multivitamin is one of the best and easiest ways to ensure that your child gets all of the nourishment they need  but which ones are best?

Right now there are countless selections for you to choose from on the market from liquids and pills to vitamins shaped like teddy bears. The sheer selection can be confusing in and of itself- but there are some great options if you know what to look for! Before we choose the right vitamin supplements, one needs to know the functioning of the important vitamins that our children need. With many types of vitamin available, we will look into some of the most important vitamins for children.

Vitamin A
Source: Carrots, sweet potato, spinach, cabbage, broccoli, milk, cheese, eggs, chicken, betacarotene rich foods such as orange, yellow and green vegetables and fruits.

Function: Vitamin A, rich in antioxidants, is one of the most important vitamins that children need especially for their growth and development. Apart from this, it also aids in the tissue and bone repair along with strengthening the immune system of our body. A healthy skin and good eye sight are guaranteed to children when they are fed with vitamin A rich food. With benefits aplenty, deficiency of this particular vitamin causes frequent infections due to a weakened immune system and also causes impairment of vision.

Vitamin D
Source: Milk and other fortified dairy products, egg yolk and fish oil. However, the best source of Vitamin D is sunlight.

Function: Vitamin D is very essential for the building up of bones and teeth by absorbing calcium. The activated form of this vitamin helps in improving the immune system and plays an important role in our metabolism, controls inflammation and also maintains cardiac health. Being one of the most important forms of vitamin in children, its deficiency can cause a serious bone disorder called Rickets. In order to avoid the ill effects caused by the dearth of vitamin D, children must be exposed to sunlight for 10 to 15 mins and can also be administered with vitamin D supplements as per requirements.

Vitamin C
Source: Oranges, kiwi fruit, strawberries, broccoli, tomatoes, peppers etc.

Function: Vitamin C is important for overall good health and development of your child. It helps repair the red blood cells, bones and tissues. Also plays an important role in the strengthening of the immune system and keeps away from the regular infections that children are prone to. By making the blood vessels stronger, the vitamin also helps wounds and cuts heal quickly. One of the greatest advantages of giving our children vitamin C rich food is the ability of these foods to increase the iron absorption in body. With Vitamin C available in most of the foods, its deficiency is very rare.

Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a natural antioxidant. It serves as a toddler's shield in averting free radicals; from chemicals, toxins, cigarette smoke and other pollutants which toddlers are exposed to every day. Apart from that, it is also very beneficial in the consumption of body fats, cell and DNA repair and other metabolic processes.

Apart from these vitamins, vitamins K and B also play important roles in maintaining good health in your child. Regular examination with the physician can help in identifying the deficiencies and help rebuilding them with the required supplements.

Magnesium
Low magnesium consumption is the main cause of ADHD and other hyperactive behavior. This nutrient is essential for cell repair, heart and muscle relaxation and protein production which helps improve body function, preventing chronic diseases and reducing insulin resistance.

Zinc
Zinc is imperative to children physical development, for faster wound healing and in increasing their appetite. It is also necessary for fast metabolism, insulin storage and carbon dioxide transportation (for even breathing).

Calcium
Calcium helps build strong bones as a child grows. Good sources include milk, cheese, yogurt, tofu, and calcium-fortified orange juice. 

Iron
Iron builds muscle and is essential to healthy red blood cells. Iron deficiency is a risk in adolescence, especially for girls once they begin to menstruate. Good sources include beef and other red meats, turkey, pork, spinach, beans, and prunes.

Children Chewable Vitamins
Chewable vitamins make it quick, easy, and even enjoyable for your child to get their daily dose of essential vitamins and minerals. Chewable vitamins are usually quick to dissolve, nicely flavored, and easy to digest, so they make a great option for even the fussiest child. You can even find vitamins that are shaped, textured, and flavored just like traditional gummy bears!

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First-Aid For Children

First-Aid For Children

Keeping your child safe is your top priority. To protect your child inside the house and out, what to do in an emergency, how to stock a first-aid kit, where to call for help, and more.

What is First aid?
First aid is the provision of initial care for an illness or injury. It is usually performed by non-expert, but trained personnel to a sick or injured person until definitive medical treatment can be accessed.

When we are injured or suddenly unwell, what we want and need is someone to help us someone who knows what to do. First aid is all about helping people in situations like this. First aid is help given to a person who has been hurt or is suddenly taken ill. First aid is the steps you can take before a person gets expert medical help. First aid can sometimes save a person’s life, but more often it is help given in an everyday accident or illness. 

 

What kinds of things does first aid kit includes?
A first aid kit is a collection of supplies and equipment for use in giving first aid. It includes staying safe yourself and looking out for danger, helping someone feel better and stay calm. It also includes getting help - either by telling an adult or phoning 999.

Include the following in each of your first-aid kits:
• First-aid manual
• Sterile gauze pads of different sizes
• Adhesive tape
• Adhesive bandages in several sizes
• Elastic bandage
• A splint
• Antiseptic wipes
• Soap
• Antibiotic ointment
• Antiseptic solution (like hydrogen peroxide)
• Hydrocortisone cream (1%)
• Acetaminophen and ibuprofen
• Extra prescription medications (if the family is going on vacation)
• Tweezers
• Sharp scissors
• Safety pins
• Disposable instant cold packs
• Calamine lotion
• Alcohol wipes or ethyl alcohol
• Thermometer
• Tooth preservation kit
• Plastic non-latex gloves (at least 2 pairs)
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Mouthpiece for administering cpr (can be obtained from your local red cross)
• Your list of emergency phone numbers
• Blanket (stored nearby)

You can also learn to handle common injuries and wounds. Cuts and scrapes, for example, should be rinsed with cool water. To stop bleeding, apply firm but gentle pressure, using gauze. If blood soaks through, add more gauze, keeping the first layer in place. Continue to apply pressure.

1. In the event of a burn or scald:
Cool the burn as quickly as possible with cold (but not ice-cold) running water for a minimum of 10 minutes or until the pain is relieved. While cooling the burn, carefully remove any clothing or jewellery, unless it is attached to the skin. Do not put creams, lotions or sprays on the burn. Call 999 or seek medical help if necessary.

2. Bleeding
If someone has severe bleeding, the main aim is to prevent further loss of blood and minimise the effects of shock. First, dial 999 and ask for an ambulance as soon as possible. If you have disposable gloves, then use them to reduce the risk of any infection being passed on.

• Apply and maintain pressure to the wound with your hand, using a clean pad if possible.
• Use a clean dressing to bandage the wound firmly.
• If the wound is on a limb and there are no fractures, raise the limb to decrease the flow of blood.

3. Choking
If the airway is only partly blocked, the person will usually be able to speak, cry, cough or breathe. In situations like this, a person will usually be able to clear the blockage themselves.

• Encourage him to cough. If this doesn't clear the obstruction, support his upper body with one hand and help him lean forward.
• Give up to five sharp back blows between his shoulder blades with the heel of your hand.
• If the obstruction has not cleared, stand behind him and put both arms around the upper part of the abdomen.
• Clench your fist and place it between the navel and the bottom of his breastbone.
• Grasp your fist firmly with your other hand.
• Pull sharply inwards and upwards up to five times.
• If this doesn't clear the obstruction, repeat backslaps and abdominal thrusts up to three times.
• If it still hasn't cleared, call 999/112 for emergency help. Continue until help arrives.

4. Dealing with a child (aged over one) who isn't breathing
• If he's unconscious, check his airway is open and clear.
• Tilt the head and lift the chin to open the airway.
• Look along the chest, and listen and feel for breaths.
• If he is not breathing, his heart will stop. CPR must be started immediately.
• Call for help.
• Tilt his head back with one hand and lift the chin with two fingers of your other hand to ensure the airway is open.
• Pinch his nose to close his nostrils. Take a breath and seal your lips over his mouth and blow gently for one second until his chest rises.
• Maintaining the head tilt and chin lift, take your mouth away from his. Look along the chest and watch it fall.
• Give FIVE initial rescue breaths.
• Kneel next to the child's chest and place one hand at the centre of his chest where you will apply pressure.
• Lean over the child with your hand vertical on the breastbone with the heel of your hand.
• Give 30 compressions at a rate of 100 per minute.
• Return to the child's head, open the airway and give two more breaths.
• Continue CPR until emergency help arrives, he starts to breathe normally or you're too exhausted to continue and have no-one else who can take over.

5. Dealing with a child aged over one or adult who is unconscious
• If he's unconscious, check his airway is open and clear.
• Tilt the head and lift the chin to open the airway.
• Look along the chest, and listen and feel for breaths.
• If he is not breathing, his heart will stop. CPR must be started immediately.

6. Poisoning
Poisoning can lead to vomiting, impaired consciousness, abdominal pain, seizures and/or an irregular or slow heartbeat. Look for plants and berries or empty or used containers etc in the vicinity.

If he is conscious, try to reassure him.
• Dial 999 for an ambulance. Give as much information as possible about the swallowed poison. This information will assist doctors so they can give appropriate treatment once you reach hospital.
• If the poison looks as though it is burning his lips then try to give him small sips of water.
• Never attempt to induce vomiting as this can lead to further damage.
• If he becomes unconscious, open the airway and check breathing. If he's breathing, he can be placed in the recovery position but if he's not breathing then you need to start CPR, using a face shield (or a barrier such as a plastic bag with a hole in it) to protect your mouth.

7. Seizures
In young children, seizures are most often the result of a raised body temperature associated with an infection.

• Place pillows or soft padding around the child so that even violent movement will not result in injury. Do not restrain the child in any way.
• Cool the child by removing any bedding and clothes, eg t-shirt or pyjama top; you may have to wait until the seizure stops.
• Ensure a good supply of fresh air but don't overcool the child.
• Once the seizures have stopped, maintain an open airway by placing the child in the recovery position. Call 999 for emergency help.
• Reassure and monitor.

8. Asthma attack
• If he already has a reliever inhaler – usually blue – help him use it. If this is his first attack, call an ambulance.
• It's really important that you keep calm and reassure him, staying with him to stop his panicking.
• Sit him upright and slightly forward, encouraging him to take slow breaths.
• Call an ambulance if the inhaler has no effect, if he's finding it difficult to talk, or if he's becoming exhausted.

9. Shock
• Shock is a life-threatening condition. If there's an obvious cause, like burns or bleeding, treat that first if you can.
• Reassure him and lie him down. Raise his legs above the level of his heart. Keep him warm with a blanket and dial 999 for an ambulance.

10. Fractures
It can be difficult to tell if a child has a broken bone, or a joint or muscle injury. If you're in any doubt, treat the injury as a broken bone. If the child is unconscious, has difficulty breathing or is bleeding severely, these should be dealt with first.

If the child is conscious, prevent any further injury by keeping them still until you get them safely to hospital. Assess the injury and decide the best way to get them to hospital. If they have a broken finger or arm, you may be able to drive them yourself without causing more harm. If they have a broken spine or leg, call for an ambulance.

It is important to have a first aid kit available. Keep one at home and one in your car. It should include a first-aid guide. Read the guide to learn how to use the items, so you are ready in case an emergency happens.

Myotcstore Related Products:

Little Remedies Baby Essential Kit - 1 ea

Aquaphor baby healing ointment, advanced therapy, 0.35 oz

Health Science panda first aid rescue kit - 1 ea

North American Herb and Spice Kid-e-Kare Oweez - 1 oz

Neosporin wound cleanser for kids, 3.2 oz

Homeolab USA Kids Relief Calendula Plus First Aid Cream - 1.76 oz

Children Pain And Fever

Children Pain And Fever

A fever is a higher than normal body temperature. It's usually a symptom of an infection or illness such as a cold or flu. When measured by a thermometer under the tongue or arm, a child's temperature is usually between 36.6°C and 37.3°C. A child's fever is usually measured at over 37.5°C. When suffering from a fever, children usually show signs of illness such as sleepiness and a poor appetite. Look for a hot face or forehead, and a body that feels hot or shivery.

Fever is not considered medically significant until body temperature is above 100.4 F (38 C). Anything above normal but below 100.4 F (38 C) is considered a low-grade fever. Fever serves as one of the body's natural defenses against bacteria and viruses which cannot live at a higher temperature. For that reason, low fevers should normally go untreated, unless accompanied by troubling symptoms.

A fever can be caused by many different conditions ranging from benign to potentially serious. Some studies suggest that fever is useful as a defense mechanism as the body's immune response can be strengthened at higher temperatures, however there are arguments for and against the usefulness of fever, and the issue is controversial. With the exception of very high temperatures, treatment to reduce fever is often not necessary; however, antipyretic medications can be effective at lowering the temperature, which may improve the affected person's comfort.

A fever is the body's way of responding to infection or illness, and children with fever often feel quite miserable. Reducing a fever can help reduce their stress. can help children feel more comfortable sooner, by reducing fever as well as aches and pains. As well as pain relief, Advil provides up to eight hours of fever relief, including fever associated with immunization.

Fever has a number of potential causes, the most common of which are:
• Infections of the upper respiratory tract, such as colds and flu
• Prolonged exposure to the sun on a hot day.

What are the causes of fever?
• An infection - such as strep throat, flu, chickenpox or pneumonia
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Some medications
• Over-exposure of skin to sunlight (sunburn)
• Heat stroke - may be caused either by exposure to high temperatures (nonexertional heat stroke) or prolonged strenuous exercise.
• Silicosis - a type of lung disease caused by long-term exposure to silica dust.
• Amphetamine abuse
• Alcohol withdrawal

How do you recognize pain and fever?
Children aged over three years can usually talk about their pain symptoms, although it pays to observe children of this age as well for signs of pain, such as grimacing or touching the sore spot. In newborn babies and infants it's a more difficult task.

There are some similarities between the signs and symptoms of pain and fever, as you can see in the table below. However, those associated with fever may be more subtle - the younger the child, the more subtle the symptoms can be.

Symptoms of pain
• Screwing up of eyes
• Nasal flaring
• Grimacing
• Increased heart rate
• Breathing rapidly
• Sweating
• Flushing
• Pallor
• Crying
• Finger clenching, thrashing of limbs, arching of back, head banging

Symptoms of fever
• Temperature greater than 100.4 F (38 C) in adults and children
• Shivering, shaking, chills
• Aching muscles and joints
• Headache
• Intermittent sweats
• Rapid heart rate or palpitations
• Skin flushing
• Feeling faint, dizzy, or lightheaded
• Weakness
• With very high temperature (> 104 F/40 C), convulsions, hallucination, or confusion is possible. Seek medical attention.

 The following fever-reducing medications may be used at home:
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol and others) can be used to lower a fever. The recommended pediatric dose can be suggested by the child's pediatrician. Adults without liver disease or other health problems can take 1,000 mg (two "extra strength" tablets) every six hours or as directed by your physician.
• Ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil) can also be used to break a fever in patients over 6 months of age. Discuss the best dose with your doctor. For adults, 400 mg-600 mg (two to three 200 mg tablets) can be used every six hours.
• Aspirin should not be used for fever in children or adolescents. Aspirin use in children and adolescents during a viral illness (especially chickenpox and influenza, or flu) has been associated with Reye's syndrome. Reye's syndrome is a dangerous illness which causes prolonged vomiting, confusion, and even coma and liver failure.

Pain & Fever range also provides fast and effective relief of pain associated with:
• cold & flu
• sore throats
• immunization
• teething & toothache
• earache
• headache
• minor Aches
• sprains & strains

Can fevers be prevented?
Fever is preventable only to the extent that the specific cause of the fever can be prevented. Most fevers are caused by infection. Avoiding sources the infection and maintaining good hygiene practices are your best way to prevent a fever.
 

Some ways to prevent the spread of infection include the following:
• Proper hygiene: Wash hands frequently.
• Avoid contact with sick people.
• Make sure you and your child's immunizations are up to date

Take steps to lower a fever if you or your child is uncomfortable, vomiting, dried out (dehydrated), or not sleeping well. Remember, the goal is to lower, not eliminate, the fever.

When trying to lower a fever:
• Do NOT bundle up someone who has the chills.
• Remove excess clothing or blankets. The room should be comfortable, not too hot or cool. Try one layer of lightweight clothing, and one lightweight blanket for sleep. If the room is hot or stuffy, a fan may help.
• A lukewarm bath or sponge bath may help cool someone with a fever. This is especially effective after medication is given - otherwise the temperature might bounce right back up.
• Do NOT use cold baths, ice, or alcohol rubs. These cool the skin, but often make the situation worse by causing shivering, which raises the core body temperature.

Eating and drinking with a fever:
• Everyone, especially children, should drink plenty of fluids. Water, popsicles, soup, and gelatin are all good choices.
• Do not give too much fruit or apple juice and avoid sports drinks in younger children.
• Although eating foods with a fever is fine, do not force foods.

Myotcstore Related Products:

Ibuprofen Children Suspension, Bubblegum - 4 oz

Kids relief flu oral solution, Raspberry flavor - 0.85 oz

Little Fevers childrens fever and pain reliever by Little Remedies, 4 oz

Motrin Infants Oral Suspension Berry Drops, Dye-Free - 1 oz

Natural Medicine children fever reliever homeopathic spray - 2 oz

Pedia Care Infants Acetaminophen Drops, Bubble Gum - 2 oz

Kids Nasal Drops, Vapor Patch

Children Cold Nasal Drops and Vapor Patch

Colds are the most common illness among children of all ages. Although this respiratory virus lasts only for a week or so, colds can make most children feel miserable. A cold is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. More than 200 different viruses can cause a cold, but the rhinovirus is the most common culprit. Because colds are viral infections, antibiotics, which treat bacterial infections, are not useful for treatment. Sometimes fatigue, stress, or the type of cold virus may cause a bacterial infection somewhere in a child's body, such as the lungs, throat, ears, or sinuses. The bacterial infection weakens the body's immune system and may require treatment with an antibiotic.

Cold Symptoms
With children, most colds begin abruptly. Your child may wake up with these symptoms:
• Watery nasal mucus
• Sneezing
• Fatigue
• Fever (sometimes)
• Sore throat
• Cough

Because of the postnasal drip, your child may have a sore throat and cough, symptoms that are common in children's colds. The cold virus can affect your child's sinuses, throat, bronchial tubes, and ears. With a cold, children may also have diarrhea and vomiting.

During the early stages of a cold, your child may be very irritable and complain of a headache and congestion. As the cold progresses, the mucus secretions from the sinuses may turn darker and thicker. Your child may also develop a mild cough, which could last for several days.

Cold and Flu Remedies For Children
1. Lots of rest (all ages):
It takes energy to fight an infection, and that can wear a child (or an adult) out. When your child's resting, he's healing, which is exactly what he needs to do. Studies show that stress plays a role in illness, too. If your child is under pressure – because of school or friends, or something happening at home – giving him a break may be just what he needs to fight off his symptoms. What you need is a comfortable place for your child to rest and things to occupy him.

2. Steamy air (all ages): It helps Breathing moist air helps loosen the mucus in the nasal passages. A warm bath has the added benefit of relaxing your child. A humidifier, cool-mist vaporizer, or steamy bathroom. Be sure to clean humidifiers often and according to the manufacturer's directions. Humidifiers accumulate mold, which they then spray into the air if they're not kept scrupulously clean.

3. Saline drops and bulb syringes : Drops clear the nose when kids are too young to blow their nose. For babies, a bulb syringe really comes in handy if a stuffy nose interferes with breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Try using it about 15 minutes beforehand. Clearing a stuffy nose with a bulb syringe works best for young babies, but if your older baby or child doesn't mind the procedure, there's no reason not to do it.

4. Vapor rubs: Vapor rubs may help kids sleep better at night. Many of us remember being rubbed with a potent eucalyptus, camphor, and menthol vapor rub when we were sick as children. Research suggests that these ingredients actually have no effect on nasal congestion, but they make the cold sufferer feel as though she's breathing better by producing a cooling sensation in the nose. atural vapor balms are available, too, if you'd prefer not to use products that contain petroleum or paraben. These are typically made with aloe, herbs, oils, beeswax, and essential oils. Massage the vapor rub into your child's chest, neck, and back.

5. Extra fluids: Drinking plenty of fluids helps prevent dehydration and flushes and thins your child's nasal secretions. Fluids that your child enjoys drinking. Plain water is great, but your child might not find it very appealing. Try fruit smoothies and other favorite healthful beverages and ice pops made from 100 percent juice.

6. Chicken soup and other warm liquids: Warm liquids can be very soothing and help relieve congestion. Studies have shown that chicken soup actually relieves cold symptoms like aches, fatigue, congestion, and fever. Soup, tea, apple juice, water, or other liquids that your child likes served warm.

7. Elevating the head: Elevating your child's head while she rests can help her breathe more comfortably. Towels or pillows to raise the head of the mattress, or pillows to raise your toddler or older child's head.

8. Honey: Honey coats and soothes the throat and helps tame a cough. Honey and cinnamon has been used to promote health for centuries. This mixture can be taken at the first sign of cold and has shown to boost the immune system both separately as well as together. Simply mix one teaspoon of honey with a teaspoon of cinnamon. Give a spoonful every couple of hours and it can knock out a cold in a couple of days.

9. Nose blowing: Your child breathe and sleep more easily and generally makes him feel more comfortable. And he'll be nicer to look at, too.

10. Neti pot: A neti pot flushes a mild saline solution through the nasal passages, moisturizing the area and thinning, loosening, and rinsing away mucus. Think of it as nasal irrigation. According researchers studied nearly 400 children ages 6 to 10 and found that a nasal spray made from seawater relieved cold symptoms faster than standard cold medications. It's not certain whether the salt water simply helps clear the mucus or if trace elements in the water are beneficial. But other scientists who studied the effectiveness of saline nasal wash solutions also found benefits.

Safety note: Do not use untreated tap water. It may contain organisms that are safe to drink because stomach acid kills them, but can live and cause serious infections in nasal passages.

Saline solution: To make your own, mix 1/2 teaspoon salt into 1 cup of lukewarm distilled, sterile, or treated tap water.

11. Gargling with salt water: Gargling with salt water is a time-honored way to soothe a sore throat. It also helps clear mucus from the throat. While scientists haven't determined exactly why it works, studies have shown that the remedy is effective. Simply combine 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and stir. If your child doesn't mind the taste, a squirt or two of fresh lemon juice can be a soothing addition.

Healing power of touch
This can be in the form of hugs, kisses, cuddles or even light placement of the hands on areas where there is pain and discomfort. Studies have shown healing touch to reduce pain, boost the immune system, lower stress levels and promote relaxation and healing.

Myotcstore Related Products:

Natural Medicine homeopathic nosebleed relief for kids - 2 oz

Ocean for Kids Premium Saline Nasal Spray - 1.25 oz

Matys All Natural Vapor Rub - 1.5 oz

Ancient Secrets Breathe Again Childrens Nasal Spray - 3.38 oz

Little noses decongestant nose drops for infants and childrens - 1/2 oz

Mucinex Expectorant and Nasal Decongestant for Kids, Mixed Berry - 4 Oz