REPEATED INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN

Why do children get recurring infections?

It is known that babies are born with immature immune systems, resulting in a high number of infections, usually 4 to 8 per year. Babies' immune systems begin to mature soon after birth, and so the number of infections begins to decrease over time. 

Path to improved health

Infections come in two main types: bacterial and viral. Bacterial infections are caused by bacteria. Viral infections are caused by a virus. Most children who have recurring infections do not have serious problems and grow up to be healthy adults. It is important to make sure your child gets plenty of sleep and eats a healthy, balanced diet. Sleep and a good diet can be just as important as taking medications in fighting infections.

→ Sometimes it is easy to identify the cause of recurring infections. In daycare centers, for example, children pass infections to each other, as they touch each other, touch toys and it is not easy to follow basic hygiene rules. This spreads infections. Some viruses can survive on objects for several hours. As adults, we have much less contact with each other's germs, so we are less likely to catch as many infections.

→ Exposure to cigarette smoke (“passive smoking”) is another cause of runny nose and wheezing in young children. Passive smoking has been linked to asthma in children. It is also a risk factor for respiratory infections. This makes it important to keep children away from cigarette smoke.

→ Structural changes in the sinuses or Eustachian tubes (connecting tubes in each ear) are a common cause of recurring infections in children. The term “structural changes” refers to differences in the bony parts of the skull, sinuses, and ears. These differences can be inherited. Some differences in body structure make it easier for infections to occur because the normal drainage of the Eustachian tube (in the ear) or sinuses (in the nose) is blocked. When drainage is blocked, the number of bacteria increases, which can lead to infection. In most children, as they grow, these problems improve. .

→ Allergies and asthma can also cause recurring sinusitis and wheezing. Allergies can cause inflammation inside the nose that lasts for a long time. Due to the inflammation, the normal drainage pathways of the nose and sinuses become swollen and blocked. Bacteria grow, causing infection. 

Things to consider

In most cases, recurrent infections during childhood are not unusual; they are a normal part of immune development. However, it can be concerning if a child progresses from simple viral infections to more complex and serious bacterial infections, such as bloodstream infections and pneumonia. Unusual infections or an increase in the number of infections over time are also warning signs. If you have a family history of allergies and asthma, ask your pediatrician to check for these conditions. Your pediatrician may also recommend some simple screening tests to check for immunodeficiency (weakness in the immune system), which is directly related to repeated serious infections.

What can I do to prevent recurring infections in my child?

• Wash your hands and your child's hands often. Wash after using the bathroom and when preparing food. Also wash after sneezing, blowing your nose, and coughing. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.
• If you smoke, do so only outside the house and outside the car. Smoking in a room away from the child or when the child is not present does not help the situation. Air filters also do not help protect your child from secondhand smoke.
• Vaccinate your child against common childhood diseases. 

When it comes to your child’s health, it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure that they receive the best possible care. In the event of an illness, you should consult your pediatrician for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If your child has a chronic condition, it’s important to work with your pediatrician to create an appropriate treatment plan and ensure proper follow-up. It’s also important to ensure that your child gets adequate nutrition, exercise, and rest to maintain their overall health.