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Extreme Fatigue in Children - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Children are a powerhouse of energy and it is hard for parents to keep up their pace and excitement. They run around the house and play but their energy remains the same at night, rarely do they complain about being tired. But if one day, your child comes to you and say he is feeling tired and exhausted, it may be because of lack of sleep, overexertion or even an excuse to avoid homework. However, when a child complains of being tired all the time, it could be a sign of extreme fatigue.
What Is Extreme Fatigue?
Fatigue is a condition where your child is constantly tired and lacks the energy to even do everyday tasks. If your child is exceptionally sleepy even after getting enough rest, it is a sign of extreme fatigue. An underlying medical condition is usually a cause of extreme fatigue. It is crucial to determine the cause of extreme fatigue in your child so that he can receive appropriate medical treatment in time.
What Causes Extreme Fatigue in Children?
Extreme fatigue can be caused by several factors which are mentioned below:
1. Poor Nutrition
Unhealthy eating habits and eating a varied, balanced diet can cause deficiency diseases and other conditions like childhood obesity that may result in extreme fatigue in children.
2. Depression and Mental Problems
If your child is bullied at school or if he is struggling to study, he may not always come to you and tell his problems. Not sharing his problem and keeping things to himself may lead to mental and emotional problems, anxiety, and depression in him which also becomes a cause of fatigue.
3. Cardiac or Kidney Disease
Although rare in kids, a weak heart or failing kidneys cause extreme fatigue in children.
4. Allergies
Many types of allergic reactions cause our body to release chemicals that result in extreme fatigue. If your child has developed an allergic reaction to something, he might be feeling tired.
5. Epstein-Barr Virus
The Epstein-Barr virus causes an infectious disease called mononucleosis, and one of the symptoms of mononucleosis is fatigue. If your child is fatigued all the time, there are chances that he may have this disease. So, take him to a doctor at earliest.
6. Anaemia
A deficiency of iron in the body causes anaemia, where there is a lack of haemoglobin in the blood to carry oxygen to the body’s cells. This can leave your child pale and fatigued.
7. Sedentary Lifestyle
A sedentary lifestyle without any physical activity can make a child lethargic and fatigued.
8. Lack of Sleep/Sleep Disorders
If your child is staying up too late at night or is not getting enough sleep due to sleep disorders like child sleep apnea or narcolepsy, it could cause extreme fatigue.
9. Infections
Viral infections like cold and flu also cause fatigue in children. Several infections such as dengue and hepatitis can last for weeks or months, and they result in extreme fatigue.
10. Certain Types of Immune Disorders
Disorders of the body’s immune system can cause extreme fatigue in children.
11. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a disease where the amount of thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland is very low. Thyroid hormone is necessary for muscle control, digestive and heart functions, mood control, bone maintenance, and brain development. Hypothyroidism causes extreme fatigue in children.
12. Chronic Illness
Chronic illnesses like asthma, diabetes or cystic fibrosis can cause extreme fatigue in children.This happens when the illnesses are not controlled by medical treatment or by a change of diet.
13. Cancer
Although cancer is rare in children, it is one of the possible early symptoms of extreme fatigue. Hence, it is advised that you take your child to a doctor if this symptom persists for long.
14. Side Effect of Medicines
Several medicines have side effects like extreme fatigue and drowsiness. These include cough syrups and allergy medicines. Giving cold and flu medicines to children may also make them drowsy and tired.
15. Adrenal Gland Problems
The adrenal glands in our bodies produce several hormones that help us manage stress in our daily lives. If the adrenal glands of a child are not functioning properly, it may result adrenal fatigue. Adrenal fatigue is characterised by extreme tiredness, inability to think clearly (fogginess), and stress.
16. Chronic Fatigue
Chronic fatigue syndrome in children is extreme fatigue that lasts for over six months. It begins with symptoms that are similar to the symptoms of flu. If all other causes of extreme fatigue are ruled out, the doctor may diagnose it as chronic fatigue syndrome.
Symptoms of Extreme Fatigue in Kids
The various symptoms which characterise extreme fatigue in children are mentioned below:
Continuous yawning
Feeling extremely sleepy all the time
Lethargy
Disinterest in any physical activity or games
Joint and muscle pain
Fogginess and memory issues
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck region
Apart from these, extreme fatigue combined with weight loss, bleeding nose, loss of appetite, headache, lumps or distorted vision could be a warning sign of leukaemia.
How to Treat Extreme Fatigue in Children
In order to treat extreme fatigue, your child’s paediatrician will determine the underlying cause of fatigue. Only then, will your child be treated by giving an appropriate medication or lifestyle and dietary changes. Here is how extreme fatigue can be treated:
1. Change of Medication
For a sleep disorder like narcolepsy, the doctor will prescribe medication containing serotonin inhibitors. This will prevent the child from falling asleep during the day. If a child’s allergy or cough medication causes extreme fatigue, the doctor will change the drug or the dosage.
2. Proper Sleep Routine
The most important treatment for extreme fatigue is a healthy sleep routine. Your child should get at least 8 to 10 hours of sleep necessary every night. So, you must make sure that he gets his due rest! Set a fixed bedtime routine for him, that means no devices before bedtime, no heavy meals within 2 hours of bedtime, and a peaceful, dimly-lit bedroom.
3. Regular Exercise and Sun Exposure
Exercise is not just important for adults, it is equally important for kids, too! If you want your child to be healthy and active, make sure he exercises regularly and gets enough sun exposure every day. This will keep him energetic and he won't display any signs of fatigue.
When to Consult a Paediatrician
You should take your child to a paediatrician in the following circumstances:
If the extreme fatigue affects your child’s schooling and daily life.
If a child has extreme fatigue after taking prescription medication.
If extreme fatigue lasts over a week.
If extreme fatigue is combined with symptoms like weight loss, bleeding nose, loss of appetite, headache, lumps or distorted vision.
Things to Remember
Here are certain things that as a parent, you must be aware of to deal with extreme fatigue and tiredness in your child:
Growth spurts can cause extreme fatigue.
Sometimes, children may feign fatigue to avoid tasks they dislike. Find out the root cause first.
Establish a proper sleep routine, healthy diet, and regular exercise schedule for your child to avoid extreme fatigue.
Extreme fatigue in most cases is caused by exertion and inadequate sleep, and not by serious illnesses. Plenty of rest and nutritious food will resolve this. Do not jump to extreme conclusions. If the condition persists, consult a paediatrician, he will suggest the best treatment!
Also Read: Bacterial and Fungal Infections in Kids Read more
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What Is a Swaddle Bath and How to Give One?
Even while swaddling your infant might be difficult at first, it has many advantages for both you and your child. Many parents are concerned that swaddling will induce slumber in their infants or possibly put them to sleep. The truth is, the infant swaddle bath is a procedure where the baby can unwind and finally go off to sleep. Swaddling is a crucial aspect of your baby’s existence, and it’s a good idea to get started as soon as possible.
What Is Swaddle Bathing?
Swaddle immersion baths are used to wash infants while they are gently enveloped in a blanket. It is typical to immerse the child and the blanket in a tub of water, with the water reaching up to the infant’s shoulder. The infant must next be unswaddled, and each leg washed individually before being re-swaddled to complete the procedure.
Why Do Newborns Need a Swaddle Bath?
Swaddle immersion baths keep the child warm and comfortable during bath time, providing a more womb-like environment for the infant. After carefully unwrapping and cleaning each limb, it is gently rewrapped in the covers.
Benefits of Swaddle Bath for a Baby
Swaddle bath comes with many benefits. Continue reading to learn more about the benefits of swaddling baths for babies.
1. Swaddling May Help Your Baby Sleep More Deeply and for an Extended Time
While a newborn sleeps around 16 hours per day, that sleep is broken into 3- to 4-hour intervals. According to some studies, swaddling newborns increases their REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. When newborns are in this more profound stage of sleep, they are less likely to awaken fully, which means that parents will spend less time at the baby’s bedside ministering to a wide-awake and weeping youngster.
2. Swaddling a Baby Who Is Weeping May Sooth Them
This is the benefit that has prompted so many parents to give swaddling a try. Consider being able to quiet a crying newborn with a few easy hand folds! However, this is not a supernatural phenomenon. Also, swaddling reduces crying in infants aged eight weeks or younger.
3. Swaddling a Baby May Help Prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Newborns that sleep on their stomachs have a higher risk of SIDS death than other babies. As a consequence, babies should be put on their backs while sleeping. Unswaddled newborns who are properly swaddled with their faces facing upward are less likely to fidget and shift during sleep, resulting in the baby ending up on their stomach.
Risks of Swaddle Bath
There are also specific hazards associated with an immersion bath. Continue reading to find out more about the dangers of swaddling newborns in tubs of water.
1. Swaddling May Delay Breastfeeding
Babies are checked, swaddled for warmth, and returned to Mom so she can nurse. Researchers discovered that swaddled babies suckled better and took to the breast sooner than skin-to-skin babies. The swaddling blanket prevents newborns from breastfeeding. Babies use their hands to identify, manipulate, and shape their nipples. The swaddled and skin-to-skin groups had similar breastfeeding capacity and impact as the older infants.
2. This Can Affect Weight
A swaddled baby’s lack of weight gain is due to delayed breastfeeding. Another theory is that unwrapped babies might not get enough contact to grow.
3. Swaddling a Child Loses Heat
Researchers found that allowing newborns to touch their mothers’ skin keep them warm. Swaddling has been shown to help regulate body temperature, but it may also increase the risk of hyperthermia. To avoid overheating, use light cotton swaddling blankets; however, it is best not to cover the head.
4. Swaddling Increases the Risk of Hip Dysplasia
Swaddling stretches hips and knees. Besides hip dysplasia, prolonged sitting in this posture can cause arthritis and leg length variations throughout a child’s life. DDH swaddling a child is harmful. Swaddle your baby, but leave room for them to bend and flex their legs.
How to Give a Swaddle Bath to Your Baby?
A home swaddle bath makes you warm, cozy, and secure with the essential guidelines for swaddle bath sessions. Follow the step-by-step guide for swaddle bath below to learn more.
What You Will Need
Infant towels
Swaddle blankets
Diapers/jammies
Infant soaps
Damp cloth
Blossoming bath
A water-resistant pad (neatly folded in half)
Instructions
A swaddle is a blanket wrapped around a baby’s underpants to keep it warm at sleep.
Extend one side across the arms to surround them.
By folding up the remaining arm, use a clean washcloth to finish the swaddling. Always begin by thoroughly cleansing the infant’s face with water.
To avoid eye infections, wipe the inside of the eyes.
Wipe the remainder of the face, including the cheeks and ears, with a clean towel.
While the remainder of your body should remain wrapped, one arm should be opened.
Re-swaddle the infant and re-pour warm water over the body to keep it warm as you wash one of the infant’s hands. Unwrap the second arm, wash it, and then rewrap it.
Following that, untie each leg and wash it in warm water before reattaching it. Repeat the technique until all of the baby’s legs are dry.
To wash the belly, pull the bottom part down while covering your arms and legs.
When you’re finished, wash your privates and put away the wash towel.
Replace the infant’s cover.
Continue washing the baby’s back by leaning back.
Finally, pour water over the baby’s head. Leaving the head until last guarantees that the baby’s body temperature is maintained and that the infant does not get too chilly due to a wet head
If the baby poops in the bath and the water has to be changed.
And give your baby another bath before venturing outside to dry and moisturize.
It may take a few tries to get the hang of it, but once you do, you’ll realize that this is the most efficient and delightful method of washing your kid!
Things to Remember When Giving Swaddle Bath
If you wrap your newborn correctly, both you and your baby will benefit from a peaceful night’s sleep. Several critical safety concerns and important tips for swaddle bath include the following:
Snugly Wrapped But Not Too Firmly: In an ideal world, you should be able to fit a few fingers between the swaddled body of the infant and the top blanket. Legs should be bent and stretched out to allow for freedom of movement.
Ascertain That Your Child Is Always On Her Back: It is the most secure posture, whether swaddled or un-swaddled. Maintain the bottom of the blanket underneath your infant.
It Is Critical To Maintain A Cool Temperature For The Infant: Swaddling may be associated with overheating and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Maintain a suitable room temperature (between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit year-round). When it comes to keeping your youngster warm, avoid layering excessively. The body of an overheated individual will exhibit overheating symptoms such as a runny nose and puffy eyes.
Use A Swaddle For Naps And Overnight Sleep: Swaddling your infant may be an excellent alternative for assisting them in sleeping. Swaddling during the night is no more dangerous than swaddling during nap time if done correctly. You’ll have several opportunities to examine her health due to the frequency of her feedings. You may choose to monitor her more often while she is sleeping.
With this, you can now master the art of preparing for your baby’s first swaddle bath. In this way, not only will your baby be comfortable and fall asleep faster, but you can also sneak in a few additional hours of sleep yourself.
Also Read:
How Often Should You Bathe Your Infant (1 to 12 Months)?
Bathing Your Infant – Procedures, Tips and More
When and How to Stop Swaddling an Infant Read more
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Government School Vs Private School- Making the Right Choice for Your Kid
When it comes to deciding on their kids’ education, all parents want only the best for their children. But frankly speaking, these days the industry is booming, and there are so many choices when it comes to educational institutions. However, if we are to generalise here in India, there are two types of school - public and private.
How do you really choose which type is right for your child? Well, that's what we're here to talk about today. Keep reading to learn more about the difference between government school and private school below.
Government School or Private School - Which is Better?
Here's a comparison between government and private schools in India:
1. Funding
Government schools are funded by public organisations like the local, state, and national Governments. They are mostly funded by taxation and in some cases, they do not charge the students any fee for admittance. Private schools are a different story. Funding is based on the student's tuition fees, and some schools charge large donations. This makes it difficult for lower to middle-class families to afford the high quality of education. However, on the flipside, they still have options.
2. Quality of Education
Private schools take on a different tone when it comes to the quality of education. Most private schools deliver education in English. Foreign languages are the second or third languages, respectively, and the national language is taught too. This is something Government schools don't do since their mode of restriction is mostly restricted to the regional language.
3. One-on-One Attention
Each kid is unique, and not all of them have the same learning style. Government school teachers simply don't have the time to provide one-on-one attention to their students. This is because the classrooms are too small and jam-packed with many students. There's simply no room to accommodate comfortably due to the poor infrastructure and lack of space. Private schools have got this figured out by making sure the student-to-teacher ratio is balanced for every classroom.
4. Delivery of Curriculum
Most public schools tend to follow the State Board or ISCE curriculum, while private schools follow the ICSE or CBSE curriculum. The CBSE and ISCE curriculum are both created by the Government; however, here lies the difference - the level of difficulty and delivery. In terms of delivery, public schools teach whatever is there in the syllabus. Private schools go the extra mile and teach students to think outside the box. They teach students way beyond the syllabus and have many practical projects. This not only gives students a solid foundation but teaches them that learning is not just restricted to books; it's a lifestyle.
5. The Devotion of Teachers
A teacher's responsibility isn't merely to teach; it's to make an impact in the child's life. Since teachers in public schools take on so many different roles (like taking care of creating ID cards, cafeteria chores, etc.), they don't get the time or energy to fully dedicate themselves in teaching students. Private teachers don't do menial chores and instead, just focus completely on the students. Teachers in private schools go the extra mile in making sure that children understand concepts and if need be, they provide supplemental lessons too after school.
Teachers in private schools are recruited on various criteria and not merely based on their academic qualifications, unlike government schools.
6. Facilities
The facilities and learning standards by private schools are growing by the day. This is an area in which public schools are lagging. There's also a lot of exposure in private schools since students are encouraged to participate in various academic competitions. This helps students gain experience quickly and look at different perspectives. There's also high-quality equipment and features available in private schools like student workstations, learning labs, theatre rooms, libraries, etc. All these motivate the student to learn and do their best. Or in short, it instils a passion for learning. Since public schools lack a lot in this arena, students might feel frustrated or discouraged to learn more.
7. Admission Factor
Private schools don't simply take in any students. They test your child's skills and capabilities by putting them through entrance tests. If your child doesn't fare well, they're not allowed to enrol as a student. Government schools don't do this, and the admission process is easy. The only compulsory criterion is that you must reside within their geographical zone. Since private schools have strict admission standards, parents make it a priority to take care of their kids and teach the basics well.
The schools also make sure that the child is facilitated with a proper environment at home, one that encourages learning and growing. One-to-one interviews with the parent aren't uncommon in private schools and students get to know the families well to understand better what learning style and strategies to incorporate in the students' teachings.
8. Overall Satisfaction
It is safe to say that the overall satisfaction rating, in terms of education, is higher amongst parents who send their kids to private schools when compared to government schools. Amongst the advantages and disadvantages of government schools and private schools, this one definitely stands out. When you look at the quality and calibre of students hailing from institutions after they graduate, the difference is clear. Private school students are more outspoken, skilled, and have ample career opportunities due to their diversified way of learning, compared to government school students.
The Final Verdict
There's a lot of ground to cover for Government or public schools. Teachers need to be dedicated to their students and care about their wellbeing more. This is the reason why lower-income families are trying to send their kids to private schools despite the cost factor - to give their kids a brighter future. If you're a parent who is thinking about sending their child to a government school, be sure to make an informed decision.
If you're sure you can teach your child by yourself, then that's a way to save money. However, if you're busy with work and don't have the time, sending your child to a private school will turn out to be your best option, despite the high fees and level of commitment academically.
Also Read:
How to Choose a Good School for Your Child
Things to Consider Before Changing Your Child’s School
Pros and Cons of Boarding Schools Read more
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5 Unhealthy Things That Silently Spoil your Fitness Plan
Losing weight is an eternal battle. We resort to so many different diets and fitness plans in that search for the perfect figure. But without realising it, we sometimes resort to unhealthy ways to lose weight which undo all the good that exercise does!
When it comes to losing weight and working out, getting to the gym is just half the battle. There are so many other things you need to pay an equal amount of attention to like maintaining your posture and getting proper nutrition. There are unhealthy ways to lose weight and if you aren’t careful, you could end up piling on the kilos all over again.
Major Weight Loss Mistakes you Can’t Afford to Make
1. Not eating enough
Many people tend to starve themselves or eat less to lose weight. If you think that less food means more weight loss, that’s simply not true! Calories give us energy and starving yourself is a very unhealthy way to lose weight. Eating right and in moderation is the right way to trim down.
2. Not resting enough
Your body needs to recover and rest in order to repair muscles and help them develop. Overusing them can lead to injury, loss of appetite and fatigue. Take your rest days seriously and go for a walk or take the kids to the park. Relax a little.
3. Not varying your workout
Routine gets monotonous for everyone, including your body. You need to mix it up. This is the whole point of varied goals each day. Not mixing your sets is a bad way to lose weight. Put your body through new and challenging activities such as zumba, spinning, yoga and water aerobics.
4. Not incorporating resistance training in your routine
In between your daily goals, don't forget resistance training (also called weight training). Combined with diet control, it can help you lose weight and preserve and build lean muscle mass. Try out some weight-lifting around the house to start off with. Be careful not to over-exert.
5. Not drinking enough water
Water is a very important part of your fitness routine as well as your daily life. It helps build muscles and provides you with increased stamina and better health. Make a habit to drink at least 6 to 8 eight glasses of water in a day. When exercising, sip water in between to make up for lost fluids. Remember to start your day with a glass of warm water and a twist of lemon and honey.
Health and fitness should be made priorities, for mommies and non-mommies alike. Don't let life get in the way of health. Don’t be a victim! Whether you want to work out to tone up or lose weight or just keep fit, avoid these mistakes and learn to exercise right. Read more
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Anu Sharma has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
8 hours ago
Q. can i use pain relief spray at time of pregancy
Anu Sharma
Mom of a 1 yr old boy
6 hours ago
A. yes
Anu Sharma has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
8 hours ago
Q. hi iam 13th week pregnant my mind is completely in pressure stress and I cried alott does this affect my baby or baby growth
Anu Sharma
Mom of a 1 yr old boy
6 hours ago
A. yes. mood swings are normal
Rashmi has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 8 m old child
8 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts 300 vochure
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
7 hours ago
A. If you have any question concerning the parenting platform then please feel free to post your question once I know what are you willing to ask with all the necessary details associated it will be easier for me to give you appropriate help and response onto your question
Rashmi has added a new answer
Mom of a 9 m old child
8 hours ago
Q. My daughter (9months old) is not at all willing to drink aptamil and breast milk I am getting only 100 ml per day now. I have tried adding jaggery powder in aptamil but still she is not at all willing to drink.I tried to feed her with aptamil midnight when she was in deep sleep but still she woke up and started crying. I am not able to find any solution for this.Its been 2 days that I have started trying aptamil.So I will continue to try for another week and if she still doesn't drink can you suggest what can be done
Read moreRashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
7 hours ago
A. For yourself I would recommend you Shatavari powder three times in the day to increase your lactation other than that since your child is six months complete you can give Amul Taaza milk to your child that is easier for the childhood digest and flavour is also good even if you want you can add some dry fruit powder saffron or turmeric for flavour change that’s also a good option to try these alternative
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 5 m old child
5 hours ago
Q. after delivey back pain is normal???
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. If there is back pain you have to maintain a proper posture take a healthy diet and also do some regular exercise specially back extension exercises to strengthen muscles also you can take calcium and iron supplements suggested by yohur doctor imf still you are having weakness and other symptoms it needs a proper assessment
Abhaya Rajput has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. Its been 7 days my 8 month old hasn’t pooped. He looks good not at all cranky. Eating normally. What to do?
Abhaya Rajput
Mom of a 14 yr 4 m old boy
2 hours ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much. Sometimes baby does not poop for 7-10 days. Please massage baby stomach clockwise and anti-clockwise. You can also apply hing water on baby stomach. Also do some cycling leg exercises of the baby to relieve from constipation and gas. Please make the baby burp after every feed. Mother should chew saunf and ajwain after every meal.
Thanks and take care
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