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ANAEMIA

A condition in which the red blood cell count is less than normal. supplements will be needed. In severe anaemia, blood transfusions may be necessary.

ASTHMA

A disorder that causes chronic inflammation and swelling of the bronchial tubes. SYMPTOMS: Pale skin, lack of energy, breathlessness after exertion. Paediatrician Dr Paul Sinclair says anaemia may also affect a child’s behaviour and sleep. HOW SERIOUS? See your doctor. TREATMENT: It depends on the type of anaemia. A doctor will run tests first to ascertain whether your child really suffers from anaemia and how severe it is. The most common cause is iron deficiency, so sometimes iron SYMPTOMS: In young children the first symptom is often a recurring cough especially with a cold or after exercise. Sometimes it happens only at night. You can hear your child wheezing if you get close to her, and she may struggle to breathe. During severe attacks breathing will be noisy and difficult, she will struggle to speak, be restless and her lips and tongue might turn slightly blue. HOW SERIOUS? See your doctor. If asthma is diagnosed, you can manage it at home. In severe cases take your child to hospital. TREATMENTS: A bronchodilator temporarily relieves the spasm that most asthma sufferers experience, but Dr Sinclair says an inhaled steroid (from an asthma pump) is the mainstay of therapy in controlling airway inflammation and preventing the spasms.