Sunday, November 11, 2007

Health Tips for November 11

Health Tip: My Child's Sick

Your child has diarrhea and is vomiting. At what point should you take him to the doctor?

The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends that you contact the pediatrician immediately if, in addition to his other symptoms, he's also:

* Less than 6 months of age.
* Greater than 6 months of age and has a fever higher than 101.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
* Got symptoms of dehydration, or hasn't urinated in eight hours or more.
* Had a severe stomach ache for more than two hours, or vomiting has lasted for more than eight hours or has been extremely forceful.
* Had bloody or slimy stools.
* Had blood in the vomit.
* Possibly swallowed a poisonous substance.
* Had a stiff neck.
* Been unusually tired.

Health Tip: Minimize Scarring After a Burn

Most serious burns will cause scarring. Although some scarring may always be visible, there are steps you can take to help minimize their appearance on your child.

The Lucile Packard Children's Hospital offers these suggestions:

* Wear a pressure garment around the burn.
* Wear a splint to prevent a contracture -- a serious complication of burn scarring that can restrict movement.
* Perform exercises recommended by a physical therapist that promote a wide range of motion.
* Encourage your child to be active and to do things independently. Daily activities will help keep the scar area stretched and prevent complications.

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