Paracetamol
Paracetamol works as an analgesic (pain relief) and antipyretic (fever relief) and has been safely used by millions since 1946. This popular analgesics drug can be purchased over the counter and can be safely taken by persons. It has been found to be safe for children and elderly persons. Paracetamol is a safe drug that rarely has any side effects and does not irritate the stomach Paracetamol is safely recommended for pregnant women and lactating women. Along with decongestant ingredients, this analgesic drug is used to relieve symptoms of influenza, common cold and sinusitis. Persons who are sensitive to aspirin can take analgesics like paracetamol. Unlike aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that block production of prostaglandins at the source of pain, paracetamol blocks these pain transmitting chemicals in the brain. Paracetamol is effective in bringing down high temperature.
Dosage:Recommended dosage of paracetamol is 500-mg tablets every four hours for adults. Children can be given paracetamol in syrup form. Liquid paracetamol comes in different strengths and product forms. Ensure that you give the child the appropriate strength and dosage. An overdose of this drug can cause liver damage. The symptoms of paracetamol overdose may not be apparent at once. It is contraindicated to take paracetamol after alcohol consumption since it increases the risk of hepato-toxicity.
Fever in Infants
Fever in infants can be quite be quite alarming to parents. When an infant is running temperature, it is most likely a reaction to the body's defense against infection. Most often it is an ally of the body - responding to a viral or bacterial infection. However in rare cases, the fever can also be the harbinger of middle ear infection or urinary infection or even gastro-enteritis. Respiratory infections such as pneumonia, croup or strep throat can also bring on fever in infants. Fever in infants is also generally accompanied by symptoms such as flushed cheeks, rapid breathing and vomiting. The infant might be irritable and restless. In some cases, an infant can have raised body temperature due to overdressing. It is essential to remember that infants cannot regulate their body temperature as well as adults. Infants are likely to have mild fever due to immunization shots.
If the temperature exceeds 37 C, an infant is considered to have fever. High fever in infants is not alarming but needs to be tackled immediately. If the infant is unable to move and seems weak and listless, consult a physician at once. Keep on the lookout for purple spots on the body or fullness on the soft spot on the head. Symptoms such as swollen joints and rash must also be brought to the pediatrician's notice at once. Body temperature in an infant can be checked either in the armpit or rectum. Digital thermometer can be used to accurately read elevated body temperature. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) does not advocate the use of ear thermometers in infants less than 3 months. Similary glass mercury thermometers are avoided on account of possible mercury toxicity. Avoid plastic strip thermometers and pacifier thermometers since they are unlikely to be accurate.
Since most of the time fever in infants is self-limiting, do not medicate the infant yourself. Usually paracetamol is prescribed for infants suffering from fever. Do not give aspirin to the infant, especially when there is a likelihood of a viral infection. Ensure that the baby is well hydrated. Breast milk must be offered frequently. Diluted formula can also be given. Tepid water sponge bath helps in lowering body temperature. Dress the infant in light clothing. Care should be taken not to allow the body temperature to rise rapidly as it can bring on febrile seizures.
Rubella
Rubella or German Measles is caused by the rubella virus. It is different from measles in that it primarily affects the skin and lymph nodes. In rare cases, rubella can lead to arthritis, encephalitis, myocarditis and thrombocytopenia. Rubella or German measles can have serious repurcussions on a pregnant woman since it affect the developing fetus. It can lead to growth and mental retardation as well as malformation of the eyes and heart.
Rubella manifests in symptoms such as fever and swollen tender lymph nodes. There is rash that appears all over the body. The rashes are light pink patches that last about 3 days. A patient suffering from rubella suffers headache, loss of appetite and runny nose. There might be mild conjunctivitis. Often pain and swelling is noticed in the joints.
A virus culture helps in detecting the type of rubella antibodies in the blood. Paracetamol or ibuprofen can reduce pain and fever. Rubella is usually self-limiting and lasts for about 2- 3 weeks. There is no treatment for this disease. Rubella vaccine is part of the MMR immunization scheduled for children. A second dose is recommended again around 4 - 6 years.
Bibliography / Reference
| 