Raising healthy, happy children is every parent’s goal, but keeping up with their healthcare needs can sometimes feel overwhelming. From sniffles and stomach aches to hitting key developmental milestones, there’s a lot to manage. Your local pharmacy is an essential healthcare resource, offering expert advice and convenient support to help address common children’s health concerns.
Common childhood health concerns
Children can face a variety of health issues as they grow, many of which are easily managed with professional advice. Here are some of the most frequent concerns:
- Colds and flu: Kids often catch colds, especially in childcare or at school. Pharmacists can suggest remedies like chest rubs or child-safe decongestants to ease their symptoms.
- Allergies: Hay fever or food sensitivities can affect your child’s day-to-day life. Your pharmacist can recommend suitable treatments, such as nasal sprays, eye drops or oral antihistamines to help them get back to the important things – playing and learning. They can also help you understand whether certain medications might interact with others your child is taking.
- Fever: Fevers can be unsettling, but they’re often the body’s way of fighting infection. Pharmacists can advise when to use age-appropriate paracetamol or ibuprofen. Keep your child home until their fever subsides, and see a doctor if symptoms persist after 48 hours or worsen.
- Skin concerns: From nappy rash to eczema, pharmacists can recommend gentle, effective solutions for sensitive skin. In some states and territories, they can even prescribe antibiotics for conditions like school sores (impetigo), helping your child recover faster and return to school.
- Stomach problems: Upset stomachs may be linked to diet, illness or even stress. If your child complains of a tummy ache but seems otherwise well, check if they feel sad or anxious. Stress often shows up in the gut, sometimes called the ‘second brain.’ For constipation, diarrhea or vomiting, pharmacists can suggest the best hydration solutions or probiotics for your child’s needs.
How pharmacists support your child’s health
Community pharmacists do much more than fill prescriptions. They’re trained to help families navigate many aspects of children’s healthcare, including:
- Medication advice: Not sure about doses or whether medications interact? Pharmacists can clarify instructions, ensure medicines are safe to combine and recommend accurate measuring tools for liquid medications.
- Preventative care: From seasonal flu vaccines to immune-boosting supplements, pharmacies provide services and products that can help protect your child’s health year-round.
- Product guidance: Picking the right treatment from a crowded shelf can be tricky. Your pharmacist can direct you to safe, effective options for your child.
- Tracking health milestones: If you’re worried about your child’s growth or development, pharmacists can provide advice or suggest when to see a doctor.
Tips for raising healthy kids
Good habits build a solid foundation for lifelong health. Try these tips to keep your children feeling their best:
When to seek extra help
While many childhood ailments can be managed at home, some situations call for professional care. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor if your child has:
- A fever that lasts more than 2 days
- Unusual rashes or skin changes
- Signs of dehydration, like dry lips or no tears when crying
- Difficulty breathing or persistent coughing
- Concerns about developmental milestones
Visit your community pharmacy for expert support
Children’s health is a journey, and your pharmacist is a reliable partner every step of the way. Whether you’re dealing with a fever, choosing the right sunscreen or finding relief for nappy rash, they’re here to help.
For expert advice and a wide range of products designed with kids in mind, drop into your community pharmacy today.
