FAQ’S

My child does not eat very often? Is there anything that can help improve/increase his appetite?

Parents are concerned over the well being of their child, especially their appetites. One can begin by assessing the growth of the child and whether his weight and height correspond with his age. Is he following his growth percentile?

If his growth is normal, you can relax. If there is any deficit or issue in his growth pattern then take your child to the nearest pediatrician for a medical evaluation. A trained pediatrician will be able to identify any chronic diseases, malabsorption, inadequate or improper dietary intake and prescribe the necessary steps to remedy them.

Obesity in children is also a primary health concern, consult your doctor is you feel that your child is overweight.

Parents must also be warned that there are no readymade appetizers and that a balanced diet will help your child to stay healthy.

My child has frequent episodes of fever. Is he suffering from some weakness of the immune system?

My newborn baby has frequent loose stools and is on breast feeding. What medication can be given?

Expert Advice

Viruses are the most common reason for fever in children
Viruses are the most common reason for fever in children. This is why they require adequate hydration, rest and antipyretics. Antibiotics must only be administered under the strict supervision and consultation of a pediatrician.
Febrile children have a very poor appetite
Febrile children have a very poor appetite, they must never be force fed and should be given lots of liquids. The fever normally subsides after a week with appetite returning to normal.
Paracetamol is an antipyretic that is effective and safe for children
Paracetamol is an antipyretic that is effective and safe for children and can be administered every 4 hours if required. Any other antipyretic should be used only with a doctor’s consent.
Do not send your child to school if they are sick
Do not send your child to school if they are sick, even if there is an important test, examination or function. It is harmful to the child’s health and he can even spread the infection to his classmates.
Medicine and clinical examinations are not just a science but an art as well
Medicine and clinical examinations are not just a science but an art as well. The physician needs to see and feel the patient in order to diagnose him. Telephonic consultations are not encouraged in this practice as they are not effective and can even lead to a misdiagnosis.