Being a parent means constantly worrying about your child’s health. One day they’re running around happily, the next they’re complaining about a tummy ache or showing signs of a fever. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed when trying to figure out what’s serious and what’s just part of growing up.
At Cameron Park Healthcare, we regularly support families with these child health concerns. As experienced GPs, we see the same questions and worries from parents every day. You’re not alone in this journey, and most childhood health issues are more common than you might think.
Let’s walk through ten health problems that affect many children, so you’ll know what to look for and when it’s time to book a GP visit.
1. Common Cold and Upper Respiratory Infections
Kids catch colds constantly – and that’s actually normal. Young children can get 6-8 colds per year because their immune systems are still developing.
What to look for:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Mild cough
- Low-grade fever
- Fatigue or irritability
Most colds clear up on their own within 7-10 days. Keep your child comfortable with plenty of fluids and rest. However, see your GP if the fever goes above 38.5°C for more than three days, or if your child develops difficulty breathing.
2. Ear Infections
Ear infections are incredibly common in children under 5. Their ear tubes are shorter and more horizontal than adults, making it easier for bacteria to travel from the throat to the middle ear.
Signs your child might have an ear infection:
- Pulling or tugging at their ear
- Crying more than usual, especially when lying down
- Trouble sleeping
- Fever
- Fluid draining from the ear
Don’t wait too long with ear infections. While some mild cases resolve naturally, many require antibiotic treatment to prevent complications.
3. Gastroenteritis (Stomach Bug)
The dreaded stomach bug hits most families at least once a year. It spreads quickly through daycare centers and schools, causing vomiting and diarrhea.
Key symptoms include:
- Sudden vomiting
- Loose, watery stools
- Stomach cramps
- Mild fever
The biggest concern with gastroenteritis is dehydration. Offer small, frequent sips of water or oral rehydration solutions. Contact your GP immediately if your child shows signs of severe dehydration, like dry mouth, no tears when crying, or decreased urination.
4. Eczema and Skin Conditions
Many Australian children develop eczema, especially during their first few years. It often runs in families and can be triggered by allergens, weather changes, or stress.
Common signs:
- Dry, itchy patches of skin
- Red or inflamed areas
- Scratching that leads to further irritation
- Skin that’s rough or scaly
Good skincare routines help manage eczema. Use gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers and avoid harsh soaps. Your GP can prescribe medicated creams if over-the-counter options aren’t working.
5. Fever and Temperature Management
Fever worries parents more than almost anything else, but it’s actually your child’s body fighting infection. Not all fevers need immediate treatment.
When to be concerned:
- Temperature above 38°C in babies under 3 months
- Fever above 39°C in older children
- Fever lasting more than three days
- The child seems very unwell regardless of temperature
Use paracetamol or ibuprofen as directed, but don’t give both together unless your GP specifically advises it. Always measure temperature with a proper thermometer rather than just feeling their forehead.
If your child shows any of these symptoms, a GP visit can offer reassurance and guidance. Book a child health check at Cameron Park Healthcare today.
6. Asthma and Breathing Problems
Asthma affects about 1 in 9 Australian children. It can develop at any age, but often appears before age 5.
Watch for these warning signs:
- Persistent cough, especially at night
- Wheezing or whistling sounds when breathing
- Shortness of breath during play
- Complaints of chest tightness
Many parents miss early asthma signs because they mistake them for recurring colds. Keep a diary of symptoms and triggers. Common triggers include cold air, exercise, allergens, and viral infections.
7. Allergies and Food Sensitivities
Food allergies are becoming more common in children. The most frequent culprits are eggs, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, and wheat.
Mild allergic reactions might include:
- Skin rashes or hives
- Stomach upset
- Runny nose or watery eyes
- Mild swelling
Severe reactions need emergency treatment. Call 000 if your child has trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or loses consciousness after eating.
Keep a food diary if you suspect allergies. Your GP can arrange proper allergy testing and create management plans for your child’s specific needs.
8. Sleep Problems and Night Terrors
Sleep issues affect many families with young children. Some kids struggle to fall asleep, others wake frequently, and some experience night terrors.
Common sleep challenges:
- Difficulty falling asleep alone
- Frequent nighttime waking
- Early morning wake-ups
- Nightmares or night terrors
Most sleep problems improve with consistent routines and patience. However, persistent sleep issues can affect your child’s behavior, learning, and growth. Don’t hesitate to discuss sleep concerns with your GP – they can help identify underlying causes.
9. Growing Pains and Joint Issues
“Growing pains” are real, though they’re not actually caused by growing. They typically affect children between 3-12 years old.
Characteristics of growing pains:
- Aching in the legs, especially the thighs and calves
- Pain usually occurs in the evening or at night
- Both legs are usually affected
- Pain comes and goes
Growing pains don’t cause limping, swelling, or fever. If your child has these additional symptoms, see your GP to rule out other conditions.
10. Behavioral and Developmental Concerns
Every child develops at their own pace, but sometimes parents worry about behavioral changes or developmental delays.
Areas to monitor:
- Speech and language development
- Social interaction skills
- Motor skills and coordination
- Attention and learning abilities
Trust your instincts as a parent. You know your child better than anyone. If something doesn’t feel right about their development or behavior, discuss it with your GP. Early intervention can make a significant difference for many developmental concerns.
When Should You See a GP?
Knowing when to book a GP appointment versus waiting it out can be tricky. Here are some general guidelines:
See your GP if your child has:
- Persistent fever above 38.5°C
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Severe vomiting or signs of dehydration
- Unusual behavior or extreme lethargy
- Pain that’s getting worse rather than better
Book a routine check if:
- You’re concerned about your child’s development
- Symptoms are mild but not improving after a week
- You need advice about managing ongoing conditions
- You want to discuss prevention or healthy habits
Creating a Healthy Foundation
Prevention is always better than treatment. Regular check-ups help catch problems early and keep your child’s immunizations up to date.
Focus on building healthy habits early – good nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and proper hygiene. These simple steps prevent many common childhood illnesses.
Remember that most childhood health issues are temporary and manageable. Your child’s body is learning to fight off infections and adapt to the world around them. Some bumps along the way are completely normal.
Building Your Support Network
Don’t try to handle everything alone. Connect with other parents, trust your healthcare team, and remember that asking questions doesn’t make you an anxious parent – it makes you a caring one.
Keep your GP’s contact information handy, know your local pharmacy hours, and have a basic first aid kit at home. Being prepared helps you feel more confident when health issues arise.
Most importantly, trust yourself. You’re doing a great job, even when it doesn’t feel like it.
Need trusted support for your child’s health? Cameron Park Healthcare offers GP-led care for children of all ages. Our experienced team understands the unique health needs of growing families in the Newcastle area. From routine check-ups to managing ongoing conditions, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Book a child health check today, and let’s keep your child healthy and happy.
