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So, it has been very stressful lately. My son has been sick and this has gotten me worried. I know that if it gets any worse we can always take him to an urgent care clinic to get him looked at, but for now, I am keeping an eye on him and how he is progressing. The weather changes around the globe have made the climate very unpredictable, even in a tropical country. Some days we start with overcast skies, and then we have alternate short drizzles and hot bursts of sunlight, that culminates in cool and windy evenings. It is no surprise that people are getting the cough and cold more and more. My son got a cough early this month which I found out is now a mild form of pneumonia, not contagious, and very common especially with the weather.
Here is what was advised for my son, with this cough, in the capital city, of my humid, tropical country.
1. Refrain from going outside too much, even for short bursts of play
The changes in weather is not good for a weakened immune system. The fact that the cold virus survives longer in cooler weather makes it more dangerous for him to be out especially considering his illness now. Also, pollution and dust, even pollen from plants can further exacerbate a respiratory situation, even for non-asthmatic children.
2. Make sure their back and the back of their shirt is always dry
Changing clothing when sweaty is recommended.
3. Try to keep the body temperature and the temperature of the surrounding area cool and balanced
Use air-conditioning at very hot times of the day if this is a bit on the hotter side. This is better at this time of illness and can be changed again once the immune system is back up.
4. Eat lots of fruit and vegetables for the vitamin content and keep hydrated as much as possible.
My son is on antibiotics now and is not viral so at least he can still play with his sister but, for any parent who has had a sick child, I am sure you know how stressed out I am over this situation.
Any tips on how to deal with respiratory illnesses in cool/humid weather?
