Sinus infections are common problems for toddlers and children. A sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, is the inflammation of a toddler’s nose and sinuses. Sinus infections, especially in children, should be treated as soon as possible. This is because children’s immune system is weak and might not be able to deal with such infections.
Common Causes of Sinus Infections in Toddlers
In addition to understanding the basics of treating sinus infections in toddlers, a parent must also understand the common causes of sinus infections in toddlers.
Common Cold
If the sinus infection occurs while a toddler is suffering from a common cold, it usually is a viral sinus infection. If it occurs following a common cold, then it’s a bacterial sinus infection.
Because of the possibility of a toddler experiencing a sinus infection associated with or following a common cold, great care should be taken to treat the symptoms of that common cold when they first appear.
Allergies
A toddler that experiences or suffers from seasonal allergies is quite likely to be afflicted with a sinus infection as well. As is the case with a common cold and an associated sinus infection, a parent is wise to take a proactive course in addressing the prospect of an allergy related sinus infection. If a parent detects that a child is suffering from the early symptoms of seasonal allergies, he or she should take immediate steps to address the allergies.
By taking a proactive stance, a parent is best able to prevent a toddler from experiencing a sinus infection associated with seasonal allergies. Because of the young age of a toddler, a doctor should be consulted to determine the most appropriate course of treatment for seasonal allergies.
Flu
As is the case with the common cold and seasonal allergies, the flu is another cause of a sinus infection in toddlers. Indeed, the flu is a serious condition for a toddler. A parent with a child who appears to have the symptoms of the flu should seek prompt medical attention not only to control the symptoms of that illness but to prevent or address the onset of a sinus infection as well.
Close Contact with Other Toddlers
Colds and flus can be passed from one child to another when they are in close proximity. Indeed, perhaps the most common cause of a sinus infection in toddlers is exposure of these young children to peers suffering from the cold or the flu.
A toddler runs the risk of a sinus infection through his or her own unclean hands. A child can catch a cold or the flu in this manner, which can lead to a sinus infection. A parent needs to be diligent in keeping his or her child’s hands as clean as possible.
Similarly, unclean toys can be the source of a cold or the flu, which can lead to a sinus infection. For this reason, a parent need to be diligent in keeping a toddler’s toys as clean as possible.
Contact with Parents
Finally, toddlers fairly regularly catch “bugs,” including a cold or the flu from a parent. Again, this can lead to a sinus infection. A parent needs to avoid contacting the child if or she is suffering from a cold or a flu.
If you suspect that your child little one has a sinus infection, you should seek help as soon as possible. Contact us today to book an appointment.