According to experts, viruses and bacteria are abundant in the environment of young toddlers, and this makes them more susceptible to infection than other children.
“Frequent minor infections can be normal during early childhood, but parents should pay attention to the severity, duration and overall health of the child.”
- Dr Vivek Jain
Reasons For Frequent Toddler Sickness
Here's why your toddlers fall sick often:Immature Immune System
A toddler’s immune system is not fully developed, meaning it is still developing and learning how to deal with various infections. Since toddlers may not be immune to certain viruses as an adult would be, they might catch several minor respiratory or stomach infections during a year, which should not be seen as poor immunity.Being in Close Proximity with Other Toddlers
Toddlers usually attend daycare, preschools, and playgroups where they meet other children. This way, toddlers can easily catch any infection since they spend time in proximity to other children and might get the infection by coughing, sneezing, or touching the same surfaces and toys.Constant Touch With Various Objects
Since toddlers love to touch various things around them, such as toys, furniture, the floor, or other objects, they tend to put their hands into their mouths. The child should be taught how to wash his or her hands often, particularly before eating and after going to the toilet or playing outside.Inadequate Hand Washing
Toddlers are yet to learn proper hygiene practices. They might forget to wash their hands or do so properly. It is the parents' and caregivers’ responsibility to ensure that the toddlers wash their hands thoroughly, especially after coughing, using the toilet, playing outdoors and before eating.Not Sleeping Enough
Sleep plays an important role in maintaining a toddler’s immune system. Sleep-deprived children are more likely to be prone to infections and take longer to recuperate from sickness. Proper bedtime routines and a suitable sleeping environment can help toddlers obtain sufficient quality of sleep.Poor Dietary Practices
Toddlers require diets that are diverse and contain enough protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, among others. Inadequate dietary intake hinders proper development and negatively affects the immune system.Air Pollution
Air pollution may irritate the respiratory tract of the child and make them vulnerable to coughing, wheezing, and other such problems. This is especially true in areas where there is a lot of outdoor air pollution.Changing Weather
There are certain infections that are associated with different seasons. Infections are common in some seasons due to changes in temperature, indoor overcrowding and seasonal exposure to viruses.Monsoons and winters can be difficult seasons for children, depending upon the infections prevalent in the community at that time.
What Can Parents Do to Reduce Infections?
While it is not possible for parents to protect their children from all infections, some simple practices can help reduce the risk of infections:- Wash hands with soap and water regularly
- Stay current with immunisations, as advised by your paediatrician
- Provide a nutritious diet
- Maintain a proper sleep schedule based on age
- Ensure that the child does not come in contact with cigarette smoke
- Avoid using utensils belonging to an infected person
- Advise children to cover their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing
- Clean toys that children frequently use
When to Consult a Physician?
As Dr Vivek Jain suggests, parents should look beyond the frequency of sickness experienced by their toddlers. The seriousness of the illness, time in between episodes of illness, growth and development are other factors which should be considered too. Breathing problems, excessive sleeping, dehydration, fever lasting longer than usual, poor feeding and poor weight gain are signs that a doctor’s attention is required.Constantly being ill is something that may cause worry to any parent; however, infections are normal for toddlers and should not cause much concern. Take care of your child by ensuring good personal hygiene, proper nutrition, sufficient sleep, and regular vaccinations. Keep track of development and recovery. Seek expert opinion in case of serious infections.
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FAQs on Why Do Toddlers Get Sick So Often?
- Can allergies be confused with infections occurring often in toddlers?
Yes, allergies can be confused with infections. Signs like sneezing, runny nose, blocked nose, and coughing can occur without the presence of fever. A paediatrician can be able to distinguish between them. - Can there be any underlying disease which causes infections in toddlers?
Yes, some underlying diseases can lead to recurrent infections in toddlers. In cases of infections which are severe, recurrent, or associated with poor growth, among others, a paediatrician can recommend testing. - Can antibiotics be given to toddlers often?
No, antibiotics should not be administered often unless recommended by a doctor, since they are used to treat bacterial infections but not viral infections.
