About Meningitis

Meningitis is a word you may have heard in the news since there have been a number of outbreaks reported in schools or colleges all over the country. It can be a serious illness, at times even fatal. Thankfully, with appropriate treatment, many kids recover completely from meningitis.

Introduction to meningitis

The central nervous system is surrounded by a fluid—called cerebrospinal fluid—that cushions and protects the brain and spinal cord when the body is active. Even more protection is provided by the meninges, which are membranes that cover the central nervous system. When the meninges are attacked by bacteria or virus, it can become inflamed. This condition is called meningitis.

How is meningitis acquired?

Most of the bacteria and viruses that cause meningitis are very common and come with other regular illnesses. Bacteria and viruses that infect the skin, respiratory organs, gastrointestinal tract, and urinary system can enter the bloodstream, reach the cerebrospinal fluid, and then attack the meninges. In some cases of bacterial meningitis, the bacteria can come from a severe local infection such as an ear or nasal sinus infection.

Meningitis treatment

Meningitis is treated aggressively. Core treatment includes intravenous (IV) antibiotics and other medications that reduce inflammation. If you suspect meningitis in your child, seek medical care immediately.

Urinary Tract Infection in Kids

Urinary tract infections (UTI) in children can occur in the bladder or kidney. They are especially common in girls and uncircumcised boys. By age 5, about 8 percent of girls and 1 to 2 percent of boys will have had UTI. Possible kidney scarring is an important reason to prevent, detect, and treat UTI, as scarring can lead to serious kidney problems for a child down the road.

Causes of UTI

UTI occurs when the bladder, kidneys, ureters, or urethra become infected. Infection is often caused by stool bacteria. Usually, these bacteria enter the urinary tract from outside the body. However, there are cases in which the bacteria in the bloodstream enter the kidney, causing the infection. Aside from bacteria, viruses such as adenovirus can also cause UTI.

Symptoms of UTI

The most common symptoms of UTI are fever, vomiting, and flank pain. Diarrhea can sometimes accompany the condition. Infants with UTI may be jaundiced, irritable, and feeding poorly.

Is UTI contagious?

UTI is not directly contagious. The bacteria that causes it, however, can be spread by touch.

How long does UTI last?

UTI may persist until treated. Once treatment begins, improvements are often rapid. A UTI infection is usually cleared within 2 weeks or less of treatment.

Workable Breastfeeding Strategies for Mothers

The bond between mother and baby might start in the womb, but it is reinforced during breastfeeding. When mothers lactate, it means that the time has come for babies to receive their fresh supply of nutrients. Some pediatricians and the World Health Organization recommend that breastfeeding be observed for babies up to two years of age. For mothers who prefer to feed their babies from their bosoms, listed below are some strategies to help them.

A key element to helping the baby efficiently breastfeed is for the mother to determine the right latch. This involves learning how to position the lower half of the breast and areola right into the baby's mouth so that they can suck right away. Practice different positions as well to get the optimum latch, such as the football hold. Lactation specialists can help mothers get the correct latch, as nailing the proper latch will make the rest of the breastfeeding experience comfortable for the baby.

Acquire certain devices to help maintain the breast between sessions, such as special cream to seal in the nipples during the interlude. Although breast pumping the milk into bottles does work in some cases, you have to ensure that the baby is more attuned to your nipples to prevent confusion. Help the child burp as well.

Breastfeeding helps fortify the baby with a full array of nutrients, which is vital to their development. This also cements the child's ties to their mother.