Common Chronic and Viral infections that Affects Children and Young Adults

It can be very concerning to see your child getting sick. This helpful information aims to explain some of the common chronic and viral infections that mostly affects children and young adults.

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

This common viral infection most often affects children.  It is a mild condition that causes blisters in the mouth and a rash on the hands, feet and sometimes the buttocks.  There may also be mild fever, poor appetite and general malaise.  It is contagious.

The illness usually only lasts a few days and needs no specific treatment.  If your child is more unwell then expected, or struggling to drink and you are worried about dehydration, contact your doctor.

Children should be kept off school until the fever has settled and the mouth lesions have healed.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

IBS is a chronic condition of the gut that causes abdominal pain, bloating and gas, and fluctuating bowels movements such as diarrhoea and constipation.  It most commonly affects young adults.

A diagnosis of IBS is usually based on symptoms, but tests should be done to rule out other conditions.  There is no cure for IBS but the symptoms can be well managed with medication and lifestyle changes.

If you are suffering from abdominal pain or have noticed a persistent change in your bowel habit, contact your doctor.