Watery Diarrhea|Vomiting And Diarrhea|Toddler Diarrhea

I would like to thank TiredOfYourWeight@WhosTheNextIdiot.com for the email you just sent reminding me that I'm overweight. How did you find me? Were you there when I used emergency money to buy girl scout cookies? When I dove between the sofa cushions because I thought I saw a French fry? When I ran past you in my bathing suit at the pool and took out three toddlers? How do you people know that I want to lose weight, need money transferred from Nigerian royalty, and have been looking everywhere for a fake Rolodex? Baffling.

So, Mister TiredOfYourWeight, I appreciate that you took time in the middle of the night to send me this urgent email to share your weight loss secret that is sure to revolutionize the world and to give me the opportunity to buy into it before anyone else. I am flattered that you spend so much time and energy caring about strangers. I wish you would spend the same amount of time learning to spell and removing the strands of gibberish in your heartfelt message which, until I speak in tongues, I am unable to translate. I'm sure you mean well, but I don't need the revolutionary answer to instant weight loss. You see, I already know the answer, and have known it for years. In fact, it really hasn't been much of a secret since 4th grade biology. Eat less than you are, exercise more than you are, and you will lose weight. Shocking I know. Knowing what to do isn't the secret. It's doing it.

You see, I would rather drink lumpy shakes made out of goat's urine, strap thirty pounds of spandex to my body, and spend thousands on hairdos, clothes, and accessories guaranteed to make me look a size smaller. I would rather have my colon flushed and take diet pills that cause hair loss, fainting spells, and the unavoidable explosive diarrhea. But don't make me eat vegetables - that's just gross. I want those programs where you actually pay more to eat less. I would rather spend hours reading manuals from experts claiming it's not the quantity but the combinations of foods- just don't mix the brown Snickers with the tan French fries and you're fine.

I want to sit around perplexed saying, "But I don't eat that much" and convince myself that I must have some rare thyroid condition and that everybody's order contains the word Supersize. I want to buy exercise tapes that I'm too lazy to open and fancy treadmills to hold my plants, rather than park at the back of the parking lot and take the stairs. I am not interested in the kind of exercise where I am involved. I don't even want to get up to change the TV. I once watched a twenty-four hour Valerie Bertinelli marathon because I couldn't find the remote. I would rather sit around with a group of other overweight people and have them tell me size doesn't matter and look at skinny people in disgust and hope they're miserable.

So I do know the secret to weight loss, Mr. TiredOfYourWeight. Perhaps if you could come up with a revolutionary way to do the things we don't want to do. Now that I would read. So thanks but no thanks. I would, however, be interested in a way to earn a million in a week without ever having to get dressed or leave my house. Do you have a cousin who does that?

The origin of buttermilk is rather different from the present day buttermilk. Previously buttermilk actually meant the left over liquid after churning butter from the milk, which is how it derived its name. Now what we call buttermilk is usually the residual liquid after curd is churned and the butter removed. Usually it was considered the poor man's curd. But research and development of science has helped to understand the underlying advantages of this watery liquid. Now it has become an integral part of the Indian diet as well as many more diets the world over. It has superseded the qualities of both milk and curd in many ways. A quick glance at the host of benefits it offers -

• Probiotic food: The lactobacillus (lactic acid bacteria) present in buttermilk makes it an intestine friendly food. These bacteria survive the digestive passage and become active once they reach the intestines and hence the name probiotic. These useful bacteria help in combating pathogenic (disease causing) organisms ingested via food or water. They improve the disease fighting capacity of the host, thus boosting the immune system.

This easily digestible drink is light on the tummy and relieves symptoms of stomach upset, acidity, diarrhea or indigestion. As it helps in rebuilding the flora of gastrointestinal tract it is believed to be helpful in chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome. It definitely is an intestinal elixir.

• Nutritional benefits: This healthy and nutritious drink made by beating curd can be made more delicious by adding spices like cumin seeds, salt and chillies. Though watery in nature, the nutritional benefits can never be underscored.

1. Low-fat and low calorie: Removal of fat makes it a favorite with many dieters. Those aiming for weight loss can include it in their diet regimen as it is devoid of fat, but supplies all the essential nutrients.

2. Vitamins: It is a good source of B-vitamins. The lactobacillus along with the gut flora (intestinal bacteria) helps synthesize many B-vitamins like riboflavin and vitamin B12.

3. Minerals: Being a dairy product it is a rich source of calcium and is also rich in potassium.

• Ideal summer drink: In hot climate especially in tropics and in summers one feels satiated with a glass of chilled buttermilk. Not just that, it rejuvenates and relieves signs of dehydration and sunstroke. This tangy drink along with a few pods of fenugreek seems to be an effective home remedy in reducing excessive body heat and hot flushes.

• Being a low fat drink, it is beneficial to diabetics, hypertensives or those suffering from other cardiac problems.

So, next time opt for buttermilk instead of other processed drinks.

Diseases that are related to the gastrointestinal tract, especially diarrhea, are health problems that often attack young children. Especially when you are traveling, be alert.

Because their immune systems are still extremely underdeveloped compared to an adults, babies and very young children have a high risk of being coming down with diarrhea and other diseases that originate through food and drink. There is a lot of contact from their hands to their mouths and germs can spread this way as well.

What Symptoms Should I Look For?

Parents need to be alert and watch for changes in their children's condition. Bloody stool, high fever that is over 38.5簞C or 101.5簞F, vomiting and mild to serious dehydration are all signs that you need to seek immediate emergency medical aid.

How Do I Prevent It?

If your baby is still very young, you'll find that keeping them to breast milk is the ideal way to make sure that they have less problems with infections. Always make sure that you use purified water when you are preparing your children's food, whether it is for making ice cubes, brushing their teeth and mixing into their formula food or milk.

Always make sure that you take special pains when it comes to cleaning your baby's pacifier and teething ring. If they have fallen on the floor, they will be less clean and they may transfer germs very easily. A wet tissue fluid or an alcohol based sanitizer can substitute for disinfectant equipment, though always keep in mind the fact that alcohol does not remove organic material. Make sure that you wash the pacifier, teething ring, or even any toy that you know has been on the floor very thoroughly with soap and water.

Remember that the food that your baby consumes needs to be as thoroughly cleansed and denatured as possible. If you give your baby dairy products, make sure that they have been thoroughly pasteurized, and if you give them fruits and vegetables, always make sure that they are peeled or at least scrubbed thoroughly. Cook any foods thoroughly and make sure that things like fish, eggs and meat are prepared and then eaten immediately

How Do I Treat Dehydration?

When your child has been affected by diarrhea, remember that vomiting is causing dehydration. In addition to this, fever and an increased body temperature can quicken the loss of fluid in the child's body, and this can speed dehydration as well.

Remember that one solution that you may find is the sports drink at the store. Sports drinks are meant to replace electrolytes in the body and to make sure that the body will be able to get all the use out of the water. If your child has been sweating, this may be something that he or she will need.

Remember that the electrolyte solution is predominantly recommended for dehydration. In many cases, children do like the taste of it, and after drinking it, they often feel much better. After the solution has been dissolved, remember that it should be drunk within twelve hours, or twenty four hours if it has been stored in the refrigerator. Take some time to consider what kind of good this solution can do for you

What Diet Changes Can I Make?

If your child has been stricken with diarrhea, you'll find that some changes need to be made to their diet. The changes that you need to make are not large and they are certainly healthy.

If your very young baby has diarrhea, you'll find that breastfeeding is something that should still take place. If they baby is on milk formula, this can be used to keep the baby hydrated and to make sure that they are still feeling good. They need the comfort and familiarity that they have known if they are going to feel comfortable about getting healthier, and in this case, there is no reason to deny them.

Remember that you should take out food that contain a lot of simple sugars. This includes things like heavy apple juice, gelatin, cereals that have been frosted with sugar and soft drinks. This is something that can make the diarrhea much worse.

Similarly, make sure that you cut out foods that have a high fat content in them, at least for a little while.

When a child has diarrhea, you'll find that starches, plain cereals, yogurt, fruits and vegetables are the best options that you have when it comes to helping them get better.

Consider the BRAT diet, which refers to feeding the child Bananas, Rice, Apple sauce, and Toast, which is highly recommended for situations like this one. It is easy to prepare and to remember.

Taking care of a sick pet is something that most owners are going to experience at some stage during their dog's life. The following article is not meant to replace the advise of your vet, who should always be the first person that you contact if your dog is unwell. These tips are designed to help you, to help your pet, during a period of recovery from illness.

Your veterinarian will advise you about the seriousness of the illness, any likely complications that may arise, and what you should do if any vomiting or diarrhea was to occur. You should also expect your vet to advise you on what food to feed, how frequently, and what type. If your vet doesn't-then make sure that you ask, as your dog's health is your responsibility.

A warm, comfy bed, familiar surroundings, and your friendly face is going to count for a lot during your dog's period of convalescence. You have built up a bond of trust between you during your time together, and this will help if your vet has given you instructions on administering medicine, and on any changes of bandages that might be needed.

Your dog will need lots of re-assurance, kind words, and if any maneuvering of your pet becomes necessary, then this needs to be done with care. If your pet has a problem with walking, or even standing, it's going to be your job to help him to go outside to relieve himself. You might need to recruit a helper to support your dog if it is one of the larger varieties. If so, use a blanket or large towel, and place it around his underbelly in the form of a sling.

Your pet's bedding needs to be kept scrupulously clean. Any faeces that may have attached to your dog can be washed off using a mild shampoo, and then gently toweled dry. If your dog has been vomiting, dehydration will be a problem. Pre-boil, and allow his water to cool, and then place close to his bed.

All dogs hate Elizabethan collars. But, if your dog has wounds, it is inevitable that he will try to lick, scratch, or even bite at them. You cannot allow this-make sure that the collar remains on until the wounds heal. Administering medicines is another area where you may feel like you are being cruel, when actually you are being kind.

Caring for a sick dog can be trying especially when you've got a dog that is a complete nightmare when it comes to taking medicines. If your dog is one of these-then your going to have to be smarter than she is. Try concealing any tablets in a treat. Pate is good, as is soft cheese. Ask your vet if the type of medicine that she has prescribed can be crushed and sprinkled on her food. Or, whether any liquid medications can be mixed in with her meals. If all else fails you are going to have to move on to the next stage.

Get the tablet ready in your hand, and back your dog in to a corner in the room. Talk to him reassuringly, but make sure that there is no way that he can escape from you. Acting gently, take his muzzle in your tablet free hand, and raise it upward, ease down on his lips and his mouth will open. Place the tablet in your other hand at the back of his throat, gently close his mouth, and then continue to rub his throat until your convinced that he has swallowed it. Afterwards give him a treat, and plenty of praise. Repeat this exercise 4 times a day for the next 14 days!

Your vet should have explained the longevity and extent of any exercise needed during your pet's convalescence to you. Make sure that you abide by this advice. I'm still amazed by a dog's powers of recovery even from some pretty horrendous injuries. They seem to take so much in their stride that you can easily be fooled by a quick return to their old zest for life. But, wounds take time to heal, and illnesses need time to recover from. Taking care of a sick pet isn't always easy, but it is one of the cornerstones of looking after your dog's health, and thereby his well-being and general happiness.

It's disgusting but true, and it's probably affecting your family right now:

A large majority of the American population is overweight and in declining health not because of overeating or a lack of exercise, but because they have parasites- worms!- living in their intestines and stomach. These disgusting creatures steal nutrition from the food you eat (so that your body never feels like it has had enough to eat) and they create a buildup of toxic plaque in your intestines.

You could go your entire life without ever realizing how much better you could feel, how much healthier you could be, and how much less you could weigh without these disgusting intruders ravaging your system. It's vital that you be aware of the 10 human parasites that most commonly infect the population, so that you can learn to effectively and safely get rid of them.

10 Human Parasites

Protozoan: Protozoan are one-celled organisms that live in the blood, tissues and intestines. Although invisible to the naked eye, these parasites may remain active in the human body for an entire lifetime, causing tissue destruction and other complications. It's estimated that as many as 7 million people across America are infected with with protozoa.

Flatworms (or flukes): Flatworms are the most common form of parasite found in humans. These commonly infect intestines and other tissues including the heart, lungs, liver and kidneys. Flukes can live within their human host for up to 20 years.

Tapeworms: Mature tapeworms grow in size up 33 feet within the gastrointestinal tract and can release as many as one million eggs per day. Tapeworms live inside their host for years, migrating throughout the boy and invading vital tissues and organs. Because tapeworms do not have digestive tracts, they "steal" nourishment from their host by absorbing partially digested substances. They hook their head into the intestinal wall and their "tails," which consist almost entirely of reproductive organs, release eggs that hatch into larvae that can move through the bloodstream to other organs.

The Pork Tapeworm: This parasite is usually carried by undercooked pork. It causes cysticerosis as the larvae infect the eye and brain, causing lesions and tumors. It grows up to 18 feet and often lives within its' human host for as many as 30 years before it reproduces.

The Fish Tapeworm: The fish tapeworm can grow up to 33 feet in length in the intestinal tract. It causes anemia, and water retention, as well as weight gain, as it makes the host uncontrollably hungry.

Hookworms: Symptoms of a hookworm infestation include diarrhea, anemia, and abdominal pain. Hookworm larvae are especially communicable, as they can penetrate human skin. They travel to the lungs and intestines, and attach themselves to the walls of the small intestine. It is estimated that over 225 million persons are infected with hookworm.

Cryptosporidium Parvum: This parasite (commonly known as "Crypto") can spread on any food touched by a contaminated handler, but is most commonly spread through water. There is no known effective drug for the treatment of cryptosporidiosis, a diarrheal disease caused by this parasite.

Roundworms: Roundworms are most often found in the surface layers of soils. Roundworm infections are common and frequently go unnoticed unless they reproduce in large numbers and cause serious obstruction and damage to the intestinal tract. When they cause problems, the host is often struck violently ill with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and severe abdominal pain that is said to resemble appendicitis.

Whipworms: Whipworms are small, thin worms that live in the large intestine. They inject their digestive fluid into host tissue. The tissue liquefies, and the whipworms then ingest the tissue. The process can cause bloody diarrhea, anemia, nausea, and other serious health complications.

Pinworms: Pinworms are the most common parasite in America and Europe. They usually cause digestive complications and an itchy anus. They live in the colon, but frequently (and literally) "come out" at night to lay their eggs on bedclothes. They are extremely communicable and their eggs can become airborne and live without a host for up to 2 days.

What Can I Do To Get Rid Of These 10 Human Parasites? It can be very difficult to get rid of parasites, simply because the drugs that are used to treat them usually target only one particular type of parasite and one area of the body. If a parasite detects that it's "under attack," it simply moves from the area being treated to one that is not.

Children flu is worrisome for a parent but luckily natural children remedies are easily available and work efficiently. I know because I've used them repeatedly and swear by them hands down.

Oscillococcinum: I can't pronounce the word but I swear by what's in these homeopathic tubes. Rated #1 by me and other flu sufferers around the nation. It's purely homeopathic and safe to administer to children (according to the instructions ages 2 and older).

Just recently, my daughter, Lainey (age 6) contracted the flu. The onset was sudden and shortly after noticing her stark pale face she vomited. I immediately gave her one full dose of Oscillococcinum. She told me shortly after throwing up that she didn't want to go to soccer camp the next morning. The next morning she came to me dressed in her soccer gear and said she felt great. I gave her one more dose of Oscillococcinum prior to bringing her to soccer and gratefully she lasted the whole day . She told me she felt great all day and even continued onto swim team!

Please note: Oscillococcinum needs to be taken at the onset. For this reason it's essential that you have this one on hand. It works wonders for adults as well. I take it at the onset and have experienced a very short duration of chills and fever and have not experienced nausea or diarrhea (knock on wood!)

Interested in strengthening your child's immune system to prevent the flu? BaniFlu by Native Remedies is a must. It's works preventatively and offers no side affects or discomfort and builds the body to ward off flu strains. Baniflu is a much better alternative than children flu vaccinations.

FluGo is another great product by Native Remedies that undoubtedly treats the flu and ultimately shortens the duration. I'm a huge Native Remedies supporter because they're remedies really really work. And the dosages will usually last a long time since they're only administered as needed.

Often thought of just a bodybuilding supplement, years of research show that Creatine is more than just a sports supplement. There's benefits not just to workouts, but brain function, heart health and more recently, potential benefits to arthritis.

But what is Creatine exactly?

Creatine is a nutrient naturally found in all our bodies. It is a combination of 3 amino acids; arginine, glycine and methionine. Creatine helps provide the energy our muscles need to move, particularly quick and explosive movements. Muscle contraction is initially fueled by ATP (adenosine-triphosphate ).

Nevertheless, like every other non-FDA sanctioned properties, there are concerns that Creatine is unsafe.

Some of the reported side effects of taking Creatine are:

• stomach pain


• nausea


• diarrhea


• muscle cramping


• harm to kidney, liver, or heart functions


• stroke risk when combing with caffeine or herb ephedra (also called Ma Huang)


• skin condition called pigmented purpuric dermatosis


• dehydration


• water weight gain


• increase the production of formaldehyde

After reading the short list above, you might think Creatine is the most unsafe supplement on the planet and how could or would anybody want to take this?

Because side effects of taking Creatine as listed above are non-conclusive and no studies prove the linkage from the use of Creatine to the above reported side effects.

While it is true you will gain some water weight while on Creatine, that is because the cells are retaining more water with the usage. That's not a negative. It's also true that you can experience some stomach discomfort and/or diarrhea if you take too much of the product. Stick to the recommendations. More is not better.

But did you know there have been some deaths from Creatine supplementation?

There have been some reported deaths from the use of Creatine. In one case, the person took significantly more than the recommended amount for an extended period of time and in the others the individuals had pre-existing kidney (renal) problems.

If you have kidney problems or diabetes, Creatine supplementation is not recommended.

If you do not want to drink fluids (water) and keep properly hydrated, Creatine supplementation is not recommended.

If you cannot or will not follow dosage recommendations, Creatine supplementation is not recommended.

Otherwise, this is one of the most beneficial and safe supplements next to protein and water. While roughly 30% of the population is non-responsive to Creatine supplementation, the benefits far outweigh the reported side effects which have little to no research behind them. In fact, many have been disproved but are still listed as side effects of taking Creatine on thousands of websites.

Giardia is a protozoal parasite found in lakes, streams, ditches and other outdoor water sources. The parasite is shed by wild animals high up in the watershed, and as the water travels down, it becomes even more contaminated by other animals living near it. Any dog or cat drinking from a pond, river, or other natural water source is likely to ingest the cysts of this persistent parasite. Once inside, the cysts hatch, grow, and reproduce. Giardia causes profuse, uncontrollable, often watery diarrhea, sometimes with blood and mucus associated with it.

The drugs most commonly used to treat Giardia are metronidazole, an antibiotic, and fenbendazole a dewormer. Each of them is about 70% effective; that is, they only work about 70% of the time. Because some parasites may be left alive, recurrent infections are possible even after treatment.

However, there is a natural protocol for getting rid of Giardia, that has been used many times successfully (and safely) in cats and dogs. We even cleared a cattery that had many infected kittens. It utilizes digestive enzymes on an empty stomach. With no food in the system, the digestive enzymes go to work on anything else that might be in the intestines--including parasites. It's been reported to work for Coccidia, and could also theoretically get rid of Toxoplasma, Cryptosporidia, Neosporum, Tritrichomonas foetus, and similar protozoal parasites.

First, you'll need a bottle of digestive enzymes (plant or fungi based) and one or more syringes; you can usually talk your vet into giving you a few 3 or 6 cc syringes (without needles). Do not get enzymes in combination with anything else such as probiotics or other supplements. It must be pure digestive enzymes alone. Make sure the product you select contains at least protease, amylase, and lipase (some also contain cellulase and other enzymes). These digest protein, starch, and fat, respectively. One product I have used is called Prozyme, which is available at many pet stores and online.

Note that the enzymes MUST be given on an empty stomach. If you leave food out for your pet 24/7, this protocol will NOT work. Food must be fed in meals, at least 30 (preferably 60) minutes after each dose of enzymes. If there is any food in the animal's digestive system, the enzymes will digest the food instead, and the parasites will flourish undisturbed. enzymes cannot be hidden in a pill pocket or a piece of cheese--there can be no food in the tummy!

Take 1 capsule of enzymes for each animal to be treated, and mix with a tiny amount of water to make a slurry. Use the syringe to give the slurry by mouth. In most cases it's easiest to insert the syringe in the corner of the mouth between or behind teeth and squirt. The mixture does not taste that bad, but cats in particular are just not gracious about taking meds. Be careful, but be firm.

Round 1: Give a dose of digestive enzymes 1/2 to 1 hour before morning and evening meal, and a dose at bedtime. Take the syringe apart and rinse clean after each dose (otherwise the residue builds up and the plunger will stick). Repeat daily for 8 days.

Rest: Take a break for 1 week. This allows time for resistant cysts to "hatch."

Round 2: Repeat digestive enzyme treatment for 7 days.

And that's it! In my experience in 15 years as a veterinarian, this protocol has been a much safer and more effective treatment than drugs.

The lifestyle that we have may often be the cause of the occurrence of some symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. IBS diarrhea is the most common. The foods that we eat and our unhealthy drinking habits often make us experience these symptoms. That is why many individuals often find it very important to have a well-balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. In fact, this is the best prevention from having these digestive problems and stomach disorders.

Prevention is better than cure. That is why we must do extra measures to prevent ourselves from getting diarrhea. Chocolates, and drinks with caffeine or alcohol should be avoided. Carbonated drinks such as soda and soft drinks may also trigger diarrhea.

Fiber is good for the body. As natural sweepers, it can cleanse the stomach from toxins and stored fats. Eating foods high in fibers can prevent people from having constipation. It can also prevent colon cancer, heart diseases, and diabetes. However, too much intake of fibrous foods can lead to diarrhea. So, one way of having a healthy diet to take everything in moderation. Too much is something is bad enough. When you are having diarrhea already, it is best to eat foods that are rich in soluble fiber such as oat bran, flesh of fruits, lima beans, and barley.

Drinking plenty of water and liquids should not be neglected. It is normal to lose great amounts of liquid in the body during constant defecation of loose or watery stools. Not drinking enough water may lead to dehydration. A good way to do it is to drink a glass of water one hour before and after eating. Aside from preventing yourself from being dehydrated, it can also aid the food from being digested faster and run through all your body systems a bit faster. It is even good to drink fresh juices from fruits and vegetables. If you are drinking bottled or canned juices, be careful. Make sure that these do not contain artificial sweeteners because these can trigger and worsen the situation.

You must also have yourself tested for lactose intolerance. People who are lactose intolerant should avoid dairy foods and dairy products. During diarrhea, it is natural for you to lose a certain amount of enzyme lactase. As a result, dairy products can not be digested properly. Letting this happen will worsen diarrhea and might sometimes lead to other symptoms such as bloating, nausea, and intestinal gas.

Exercising your body regularly can prevent the symptoms of diarrhea and IBS. In some cases, IBS symptoms and indigestion is cause by stress. Relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation are some of the known prevention of diarrhea. Although it is not medically proven yet, but its soothing effects to the mental state of an individual can relieve him from stress and anxiety which may trigger diarrhea. Exercise can also help in the proper circulation of blood so that the different organs in the body may function well.

When you are experiencing diarrhea or other symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, you should not treat yourself alone. Your wrong judgment and actions might worsen the situation and may cause you more problems. It is always best to consult and seek medical advice from the doctor for effective remedies.

Parents, family, and caregivers devote themselves to the welfare of children. Yet, even with love and devotion, 80 percent of deaths of children under five-years of age are avoidable. More then half of those deaths are caused by mistakes in the administration of medications given to benefit the child. An even greater number of children are injured or suffer serious side effects from inadvertent errors of common health aids found in most homes.

Before giving any medication, whether prescription or over-the-counter, (OTC), child care providers must know the weight, age, allergies, and sensitivities of the patient. Plus, it is vital that caregivers know what and when other medications and foods have been ingested by the child. An up to date list of medications and dosages should always be available. A great way to record food and medications given to children is with a daily log kept in a visible place for all adults, (parents, family, baby-sitters, and nannies), to use and communicate with one another.

Before administrating any prescription medication to a child, the caregiver must assess the child's needs: know what to give, why the child needs it, how to contact the professional that is prescribing it, when to give it, how to store it, where to refill it, and at what cost the medication can purchased. Be aware of probable side effects and how to manage them if they occur. Know whether to give the medication until it is finished or only until symptoms abate. Keep the phone number of the prescribing physician and pharmacy visible in the event of questions regarding reactions or directions.

Since each person has a unique chemical composition, side effects and each individual's reaction to a medication cannot be anticipated. Unexpected reactions must be reported to a licensed medical provider. No medications that have expired should be given to anyone at any time. Do not follow the advice of a friend, neighbor, or grandparent, however well meaning, regarding the treatment for a child. Seek the best advice from a trained professional and not merely from a convenient source.

OTC preparations pose a special challenge for child care providers. They require no prescription, are widely available, and are relatively inexpensive. Yet, they can be hazardous if used inappropriately. Child care providers must carefully read and understand the labeling found on every package.

The following categories are found on every medicine package label:

Active Ingredients:

The first panel on the label lists the active ingredients and their purposes. This section provides the chemical name of the active chemical and how it is intended to work for the patient.

Uses/Indications:

This section explains which symptoms the active ingredient is supposed to treat.

Warnings:

The warnings section alerts the caregiver to conditions, or people, that should not use the particular medication without the specific advice of a physician.

Directions:

The directions explain the dosage and administration of the medication. Always use a manufacturer provided measuring device and not a kitchen teaspoon, tablespoon, or dropper. Household goods vary widely in size and cannot be depended upon for proper dosage.

Other Information:

Other information listed often notes proper storage and gives pertinent information about how and when the product should be taken.

Inactive Ingredients:

The inactive ingredients listed on the medication label are the chemicals in the compound that are presumed to have no effect on the body. Dyes, preservatives, fillers, and food colors are among the compounds listed on this part of the label. A child may be allergic or sensitive to any of these ingredients, even though they are called "inactive."

Kids are not small adults. Do not dilute or reduce the dosage of adult products and dispense them to children. Pediatric oral medications are often sweetened to make the palatable. However, they are not candies and like all medications, should be kept out of the reach of children.

Adult medications that are especially dangerous to children are analgesics, anti-depressants, sleeping pills, and tranquilizers. Safety caps should be used and tightly secured, whether prescriptions or OTC preparations.

Some common ailments and popular products used as treatments may cause problems for children. Runny noses, stuffed noses, and post nasal drips are among the conditions that prompt a doctor to prescribe an antihistamine or a decongestant, or a combination of the two. Dry coughs and incessant coughs typically require expectorants and/or cough suppressants. Some common side effects include:

Antihistamines:

generally cause fatigue, loss of appetite, and dryness of the mouth and throat. Overuse can cause respiratory failure and weight loss.

Decongestants:

can cause nervousness, sleeplessness, and heart palpitations.

Expectorants:

can cause nausea and vomiting.

Suppressants:

can cause chest pain and lethargy.

Paradoxical side effects:

may occur at anytime. That means that for a small minority of patients, what normally causes lethargy, may cause excitation in a particular patient.

Any instance of overdose of any medication requires prompt emergency medical care. Be aware that any sudden change in behavior or health requires medical attention. The side-effects cited in this article are representative only and not nearly a complete list of all possible problems medications can pose for children.

Parents may give certain herbs to children due to the inaccurate belief that they are all natural and cannot hurt, and might help, children.

The most popular herb is Echinacea. According to the German government, only one of the four species of Echinacea is useful as a cold preventative. That form is not even available in the United States. Some children, especially those who are allergic to ragweed, may be allergic to Echinacea. The alcohol-based tincture form of Echinacea can be irritating to mucus membranes. Further, recent studies find no benefit from the use of Echinacea.

Some people use large doses of Vitamin C to prevent or to treat a cold. Large doses of Vitamin C can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and heartburn.

Honey is popularly used to relieve sore throat, or to mix with lemon to relieve colds. Honey should not be given to any child under one-year-old because of the risk of infant botulism.

Multivitamins can be toxic to children. Iron-containing vitamins are a threat to children and should not given to children without the advice of a physician.

Headaches, sore throats, and other pain should be treated with ibuprofen or acetaminophen, but never aspirin. Aspirin should not be give to anyone under 19-years-old since it is a salicylate that can react with a virus that can cause the dangerous Reyes Syndrome. The adult formulation of Pepto Bismol, Kaopectate, and willow bark are also salicylate-containing compounds and must be avoided by infants, children, and teenagers. Use ibuprophen or acetaminophen in forms designed for pediatric use, rather than smaller doses of adult formulations.

Vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea are all potentially dangerous conditions that may lead to dehydration. Pediatric electrolyte replacement drinks are appropriate. Diluting adult electrolyte replacement drinks will give the patient a drink that is too acidic for a child.

There are many effective strategies to relieve the discomfort of teething but Anbesol to be used by adults and liquor may burn the gums and should be avoided. Cold gel pacifiers are a better choice.

Intestinal gas and heartburn are treatable with a large variety of safe products. Use those made for the age of the child. Too much antacid can cause constipation, diarrhea, or stomach cramps. Over dosage of acid blockers can inhibit digestion. Track the diet of children with stomach or digestive discomfort for a few days to check if there is a sensitivity to some food.

Among the most effective methods to prevent the spread of illness is careful and frequent hand washing. Plain soap and water are all that is necessary.

If a child is cranky because of fatigue, do not give medication to quiet the child. Most complaints are temporary and self-limiting and do not require medication. Sufficient sleep and a nutritious diet often allows the body to heal itself.

References:

1. American Botanical Council

2. AMA Family Medical Guide 3rd ed
.
3. National Council on Patient Information and Education

4. City Futures, Inc

5. Integrative Medicine Communications

6. Courtroom Television Network LLC

7. dt.gov.uk

8. Family Health and Medical Guide

9. Griffith, H.W. Complete Guide to Vitamins, Minerals, and Supplements.

10. Institute for Safe Medication Practices

11. KeepKidsHealthy.com

12. KidsSource.com

13. Merchant, Anne. M. The Nanny Textbook.

14. The PDR Family Guide to Prescription Drugs.

15. pediatrics.aappublications.org

16. Physicians' Desk Reference.

17. Prevention Magazine's Nutrition Advisor.