Pain Flashcards
What are the common causes of child pain?
colic fever teething sore ears headache (less common)
when does colic start?
generally, from 2 weeks-4 months old
How is colic characterised?
with bouts of screaming in an otherwise thriving baby
what causes colic?
colic is not harmful, but it is distressing.
caused by either swallowing air during feeding, or lactose intolerance in young babies.
What is a fever?
an important component in the body’s defence system against infection, as a higher than normal temperature weakens infecting bugs.
children are susceptible, and sometimes get febrile convulsions (related to a steep rise in temperature)
What is teething pain?
Common for the growing of the first set of teeth
what are the symptoms of teething pain?
irritability
drooling
flushed cheeks
chewing on everything
feeding problems
diarrhoea
red, spotty nappy rash
what often occurs with teething?
fever
diarrhoea,
respiratory infections
reason is unclear
What is sore ear pain in children?
usually caused by otitis media- middle ear inflammation
What are the 3 main sections of the ear?
outer
middle
inner
Which tube links the nose and the throat to the ear?
eustachian tube
how does the middle ear become inflammed?
when viruses or bacteria travel from the nose to the ear.
What causes pain in otitis media?
blockage of the eustachian tube
Why are ear infections more common in children?
their Eustachian tubes are smaller, shorter and flatter and are more easily blocked during headcolds. They don’t function as well as in older children and adults.
What are the main symptoms of otitis media in children?
cry/distressed/irritable
disturbed sleep particularly at start of infection
be harder to settle to sleep
vomit, lose interest in eating, lack of energy,
clingy.
How long does an ear infection last?
not long, usually wearing off within 24 hours