In our information-rich age, it is a commonplace that “more information is better than less information”. This is particularly so in medicine. The more that is known about diseases like diabetes, cancers, and hardening of the arteries, the better. But what about common illnesses caused by the viruses our children catch? When I discuss viruses [...]
Archive for fever
Fever Myths (and Facts)
MYTH Fevers cause brain damage. FACT Fevers do not cause brain damage. Only body temperatures over 108°F can cause brain damage. The body temperature only goes this high because of outside temperatures. MYTH Any child can have a seizure from fever. FACT Only 4% of children have seizures with fever. MYTH Seizures with fever are [...]
Undue Influenza
On November 28, 2003 a series of articles on the subject of influenza began appearing in national media outlets. The following is a sampling of typical news releases. MSNBC (11/28/03): Four youngsters have died of the flu in Colorado since last week in what U.S. health officials say could foretell a severe flu season for [...]
The facts about cold
The common cold is a fact of life. There is no practical way to avoid getting a cold, unless you live in a plastic bubble. By the time your child is 2 years old, the chances of his catching at least one cold is virtually 100%. The common cold is caused by any of a [...]
Fever Demystified
Fever in children generates a lot of worry in parents and is one of the most common reasons why parents call the pediatrician. Fortunately, the more parents know about fever, the less worrisome it becomes. Fever is your friend Fever is often described as the body “turning up the thermostat” so that it can fight [...]