Childhood illnesses, such as runny noses, coughs, and fevers, can be a source of stress for parents, especially when they seem to happen too often. Dr. Katrina Heng provides expert advice on common concerns about children’s health and immunity. See this thread for full conversations.
Q: My 6-month-old vomits a few times a week. Should I be worried?
Dr. Katrina Heng: Vomiting or spilling after a full milk feed is common. However, to better understand your child’s condition, I would recommend a clinic visit with your family doctor to assess and advise if there are any concerns.
Q: My 3-year-old has persistent coughs, and colds often turn into severe coughing that causes vomiting. Should I be concerned?
Dr. Katrina Heng: Persistent coughing can be stressful. Monitor your child’s energy levels—most children recover quickly if their energy and activity remain normal. However, persistent or worsening symptoms should prompt a visit to your family doctor for further assessment.
Q: If the baby gets a fever often without any other symptoms. Does it mean he has any other health problems? Do I need to take him for any tests?
Dr. Katrina Heng: Fever is concerning. If the baby frequently has a body temperature of more than 38degC without symptoms, I would recommend a clinic visit with your family doctor to assess for any concerning conditions.
Q: My daughter has febrile seizures during fevers. How long will this condition last, and how should I handle it?
Dr. Katrina Heng: Febrile seizures are common in children under 6 years old because the brain has yet to mature and fully develop. During an illness or fever, their yet-to-mature system can lead to seizures.
Most seizures are short and resolve on their own. During a seizure:
- Stay calm.
- Lay her on a flat surface and turn her head to the side.
After a seizure, children then become tired and sleep. Visit your doctor afterwards to ensure no other underlying issues.
Q: Is a vegetarian diet suitable for toddlers? My 2.5-year-old refuses all meat and seafood and falls sick often. Is his diet affecting his health?
Dr. Katrina Heng: Toddlers often go through a fussy eating phase, but family meals can encourage better eating habits. While vegetarian diets can be healthy, ensure they include a variety of nutrient-rich foods to support growth and immunity. If you’re concerned, consult a dietitian to ensure nutritional adequacy.
Q: My baby started infant care at 7 months and gets a runny nose and cough every 1–2 weeks. She’s now 1 year old, and her infant care teacher says she’s the only one with this issue. Are there home remedies to improve her condition?
Dr. Katrina Heng: Frequent illnesses can be disheartening, but you’re not alone. Focus on prevention by encouraging hand hygiene as part of play, completing vaccinations, and maintaining a balanced diet. Remedies for colds include a humidified, dust-free room and over-the-counter symptom relief. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your paediatrician.
Q: My 1-year-old gets sick almost weekly since starting infant care at 3 months. How can I build her immunity?
Dr. Katrina Heng: The immune system takes time to develop, reaching adult levels by around age 2. To support her immunity:
- Promote hand hygiene.
- Complete her vaccinations.
- Offer a balanced diet rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin D (from sunlight).
Q: What are some tips to keep my 4-year-old healthy?
Dr. Katrina Heng: To keep your child healthy:
- Practice good hand hygiene.
- Complete vaccinations.
- Provide a balanced diet with Vitamin C and Vitamin D.
- Encourage outdoor play for natural sunlight exposure.
About Dr. Katrina Heng
Dr. Katrina Heng is a trusted paediatrician dedicated to helping families navigate their children’s health with compassion and expertise. With her evidence-based approach, she aims to empower parents with the tools and knowledge they need to raise happy, healthy children.
Final Thoughts
Frequent illnesses can be part of a child’s immune development. However, if you’re concerned, consulting a healthcare professional can provide clarity and peace of mind. For more parenting advice and expert tips, visit sg.theasianparent.com.
