# data[].attributes.body
Causes of Bronchitis:

1. Viral Infections: Acute bronchitis is commonly caused by viruses, such as the same viruses that cause the common cold or flu.

2. Bacterial Infections: While less common, acute bronchitis can also be caused by bacteria, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.

3. Smoking: Chronic bronchitis is often associated with long-term smoking. The inhalation of cigarette smoke irritates the bronchial tubes and can lead to chronic inflammation.

Risk Factors for Bronchitis:

1. Smoking: Smoking cigarettes or exposure to secondhand smoke increases the risk of both acute and chronic bronchitis.

2. Weakened Immune System: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing chemotherapy, are at higher risk of developing bronchitis.

3. Age: Infants, young children, and older adults are more susceptible to bronchitis.

Symptoms of Bronchitis:

1. Cough: A persistent cough is the most common symptom of bronchitis. It may produce mucus, which can be clear, white, yellow, or green.

2. Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, especially with physical activity, may occur.

3. Chest Discomfort: Chest discomfort or tightness may be present.

4. Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is common, especially with acute bronchitis.

5. Sore Throat: Sore throat may accompany acute bronchitis, particularly if it's caused by a viral infection.

6. Fever and Chills: Fever and chills may occur, especially with acute bronchitis caused by a bacterial infection.

Why its it common in kids?

1. Viral Infections: Acute bronchitis, especially in children, is often caused by viral infections such as the same viruses responsible for the common cold or flu. Children are more susceptible to viral infections due to their developing immune systems and frequent exposure to other children in school or daycare settings.

2. Exposure to Irritants: Children may be exposed to environmental irritants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, dust, or chemical fumes, which can irritate the bronchial tubes and lead to bronchitis. Secondhand smoke exposure, in particular, can significantly increase the risk of respiratory infections and bronchitis in children.

3. Close Contact: Children often spend time in close proximity to each other, increasing the likelihood of exposure to respiratory viruses and bacteria that can cause bronchitis. This is especially true in daycare centers, schools, and other communal settings where germs can easily spread from one child to another.

Diagnosis and treatment

1. Medical History and Physical Examination: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and perform a physical exam, including listening to your lungs with a stethoscope.

2. Chest X-ray: This may be done to rule out pneumonia or other lung conditions.

3. Sputum Tests: If your cough produces sputum, a sample may be tested to determine whether bacteria are present.

1. Rest and Fluids: Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated can help your body fight off the infection.

2. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications:

- Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and relieve discomfort.

- Cough Suppressants: These may be used to alleviate coughing, although they are not always recommended, especially if coughing helps clear mucus from the lungs.

- Expectorants: These can help thin mucus and make it easier to cough up.

3. Antibiotics (if bacterial): If your bronchitis is caused by bacteria, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. However, most cases of acute bronchitis are caused by viruses, so antibiotics are not always necessary.

Prevention

1. Practice Good Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or being in public places.

2. Avoid Close Contact with Sick Individuals: Try to avoid close contact with people who have respiratory infections, such as colds or the flu.

3. Cover Your Mouth and Nose: When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow to prevent the spread of germs.

4. Get Vaccinated: Annual flu vaccines can help protect you from influenza viruses, which can lead to bronchitis and other respiratory infections.

How illness impact in their lifes?

Persistent coughing, especially at night, can disrupt a child's sleep. Lack of quality sleep may lead to irritability, fatigue, and difficulties concentrating during the day.

APA

Neumors and kids help, april 2023, https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/bronchitis.html

Cesars Sinai, october 23, 2018, https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions---pediatrics/a/acute-bronchitis-in-children.html

# data[].attributes.body
Dementia is not a specific disease but is rather a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think, or make decisions that interferes with doing everyday activities.

CAUSES:
Dementia is caused by damage to or loss of nerve cells and their connections in the brain. The symptoms depend on the area of the brain that's damaged. Dementia can affect people differently.

SYMPTOMS:
Problems with:

Memory

Attention

Communication

Reasoning, judgment, and problem solving

Visual perception beyond typical age-related changes in vision

RISK FACTORS:

Age

Family history

Race/ethnicity

Poor heart health

Traumatic brain injury

PREVALENCE: Of those at least 65 years of age, there is an estimated 5.0 million adults with dementia in 2014 and projected to be nearly 14 million by 2060.

WHY IS IT COMMON IN ELDERLY PEOPLE?
Is not that common to have dementia, many older adults live their entire lives without developing dementia.
But in fact, many things can increase the risk of having dementia, and in some way the good quality life, carries the risk of getting more deterioration in our brain and body.

DIAGNOSIS:
A healthcare provider can perform tests on attention, memory, problem solving and other cognitive abilities to see if there is cause for concern. A physical exam, blood tests, and brain scans like a CT or MRI can help determine an underlying cause.

TREATMENT OPTIONS:
Treatment of dementia depends on the underlying cause. Neurodegenerative dementias, like Alzheimer’s disease, have no cure, though there are medications that can help protect the brain or manage symptoms such as anxiety or behavior changes.

Leading a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, healthy eating, and maintaining social contacts, decreases chances of developing chronic diseases and may reduce number of people with dementia.

MANAGE OR PREVENT:
Having a healthy lifestyle, do exercise, eating healthy food, and mantain the comunication with any people can reduse significantly the risk of having dementia

HOW ILLNESS IMPACTS IN THEIR LIVES?
They have to start always carring an ID, get checked regularly with an specialist, and start planning a way to take care of the affected one.

REFERENCE:
Dementia - Symptoms and causes. (2024, February 13). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dementia/symptoms-causes/syc-20352013
What is dementia? (2022, October 5). CDC. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/dementia/index.html

# data[].attributes.body
Causes
Geriatric depression can be caused by various factors including chronic physical illnesses, cognitive impairment, and a history of depression.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include persistent feelings of sadness, loss of energy, reduced interest in activities, difficulty thinking, and changes in sleep patterns.
Risk Factors
Family history, chronic stress, trauma, gender (more common in women), poor nutrition, substance abuse, certain personality traits, medical conditions, and lifestyle factors.
Prevalence
Globally, an estimated 5% of adults suffer from depression
Why is it common?
The causes of depression include complex interactions between social, psychological, and biological factors. Depression can happen to anyone, and people who have lived through abuse, severe losses, or other stressful events are more likely to develop depression.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosis often involves ruling out underlying causes. Treatment may consist of medication, psychotherapy, or alternative therapies.
Ways to Manage or Prevent
Management strategies include increasing physical activity, finding a new hobby or interest, having regular visits with family and friends, getting enough sleep daily, and eating a well-balanced diet.
Impact on Patients and Families
Depression in older adults can lead to significant health problems, functional disability, and a higher risk of suicide. It can also affect the patient’s family, leading to stress and challenges in providing care.

World Health Organization. (2022). Depression. Retrieved from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression

# data[].attributes.body
Causes

An ear infection usually is caused by bacteria and often begins after a child has a sore throat, cold, or other upper respiratory infection.

Symptoms

pain inside the ear.

a high temperature.

being sick.

a lack of energy.

difficulty hearing.

Risk factors

Their immune systems are underdeveloped and less equipped to fight off infections.

Prevalence

About 50% of all children will have at least 1 ear infection by the time they reach their second birthday.

Why is it common in kids

Their immune systems are underdeveloped and less equipped to fight off infections. Their eustachian tubes are smaller and more horizontal, which makes it more difficult for fluid to drain out of the ear.

Diagnosis and treatment

A red, bulging eardrum indicates an infection. A doctor also may use a pneumatic otoscope, which blows a puff of air into the ear canal, to check for fluid behind the eardrum.

Many doctors will prescribe an antibiotic, such as amoxicillin, to be taken over seven to 10 days.

Prevent

1. Vaccinate your child against the flu.

2. It is recommended that you vaccinate your child with the 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13).

3. Wash hands frequently.

4. Avoid exposing your baby to cigarette smoke

Ear Infections in Children. (2022, 16 marzo). NIDCD. https://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/ear-infections-children

# data[].attributes.body
Causes:

1. Viral Infections: The most common cause of a sore throat is a viral infection, such as the common cold or flu.

2. Bacterial Infections: Streptococcus bacteria (strep throat) can also cause sore throat.

3. Allergies: Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, pet dander, or other allergens can lead to throat irritation.

Symptoms:

1. Pain or discomfort in the throat, especially when swallowing or talking.

2. Scratchiness or irritation in the throat.

3. Swollen glands in the neck or jaw.

4. Hoarseness or changes in voice.

5. Coughing.

Risks factors:

1. Exposure to Illness: Being around people who are sick can increase the risk of contracting a viral or bacterial infection.

2. Seasonal Factors: Sore throats are more common during colder months when viruses like the flu are circulating.

3. Smoking or Secondhand Smoke Exposure: Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke can irritate the throat and increase the risk of infections.

4. Allergies: Individuals with allergies may experience more frequent sore throats due to environmental triggers.

Why it’s it common in kids?

1. Viral Infections: Many sore throats in children are caused by viruses, such as the common cold or flu. These viruses are easily transmitted among kids in schools and daycare settings.

2. Bacterial Infections: Strep throat, caused by the Streptococcus bacteria, is another common cause of sore throat in children. It's more common in school-aged children.

3. Exposure to Irritants: Kids may be exposed to environmental irritants like smoke, pollution, or allergens that can cause throat irritation and soreness.

Diagnosis and treatment

1. Physical Examination: A doctor will examine the throat, tonsils, and neck for signs of inflammation, redness, or swelling.

2. Medical History: They'll ask about symptoms, recent illnesses, and any exposure to sick individuals.

1. Viral Sore Throat:

- Rest: Encourage your child to rest and stay hydrated.

- Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort.

- Warm Saltwater Gargle: Gargling with warm saltwater can soothe the throat.

- Humidifier: Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air and ease throat irritation.

2. Bacterial Sore Throat (Strep Throat):

- Antibiotics: If strep throat is confirmed, antibiotics (such as penicillin or amoxicillin) are prescribed to kill the bacteria and prevent complications.

- Rest and Hydration: Similar to viral sore throats, rest and hydration are important for recovery.

Prevention

Hand Hygiene

Avoiding Close Contact

Vaccinations

Healthy Habits

How illness impacts on their life?

Physical Discomfort: Sore throat often causes pain, irritation, and discomfort in the throat, making it difficult for children to swallow, eat, drink, and speak. This physical discomfort can affect their overall well-being and ability to engage in daily activities.

Apa

Mayo Clinic, June 10, 2021, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sore-throat/symptoms-causes/syc-20351635

# data[].attributes.body
Causes

Is caused by the varicella-zoster virus.

Symptoms

Skin: blister, scab, ulcers, or red spots

Whole body: fatigue, fever, or loss of appetite

Also common: headache, itching, sore throat, or swollen lymph nodes.

Risk

Chickenpox is highly contagious to those who haven't had the disease or been vaccinated against it.

Prevalence

Annual incidence is estimated at 80-90 million cases.

Why is it common in kids

It is most common in children and is usually mild.

Diagnosis and treatment

Chickenpox can be prevented by a vaccine. Treatment usually involves relieving symptoms, although high-risk groups may receive antiviral medication.

Most often, health care providers find out you have chickenpox based on the rash. Chickenpox also can be confirmed with lab tests, including blood tests or a tissue study of samples of affected skin.

Prevention

Get the chickenpox vaccine.

Chickenpox prevention and treatment. (2022, November 10). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox/about/prevention-treatment.html#:~:text=The%20best%20way%20to%20prevent,effective%20at%20preventing%20the%20disease.

# data[].attributes.body
Causes
Type 2 diabetes usually occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t make enough insulin Socio-economic, demographic, environmental, and genetic factors also contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes
Symptoms
Symptoms of diabetes can include increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, unexplained weight loss, presence of ketones in the urine, fatigue, irritability, blurred vision, slow-healing sores, and frequent infections
Risk Factors
Risk factors for diabetes include being overweight, being physically inactive, having a family history of type 2 diabetes, having a history of gestational diabetes, being aged 45 or older, having high blood pressure, having a low level of HDL cholesterol, or having a high level of triglycerides
Prevalence
The number of people with diabetes rose from 108 million in 1980 to 422 million in 2014. Over 90% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.
Why is it common?
Socio-economic, demographic, environmental, and genetic factors also contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes. In the past 3 decades, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes has risen dramatically in countries of all income levels.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosis of diabetes is based on the results of blood tests. Treatment usually involves lifestyle changes, medications, and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels.
Ways to Manage or Prevent
Regular exercise, a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular check-ups can help manage and prevent diabetes.
Impact on Patients and Families
Diabetes can lead to serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and nerve damage. It can also impact the patient’s quality of life and pose challenges for family members providing care.

World Health Organization. (2022). Diabetes. Retrieved from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/diabetes

# data[].attributes.body
Causes
Arthritis is caused by the reduction of cartilage tissue due to wear and tear over time, autoimmune disease (where the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells), joint injury, or infection
Symptoms
Symptoms of arthritis can include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, decreased range of motion, and potential deformity.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for arthritis include family history, age, sex, previous joint injury, obesity, certain occupations, bone deformities, and certain metabolic diseases
Prevalence
An estimated 53.2 million US adults (21.2%) have some form of arthritis.
Why is it common?
Arthritis affects adults of all ages and prevalence of arthritis increases with age Arthritis is common among people with other chronic conditions including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options Diagnosis of arthritis involves a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and often, imaging tests. Treatment usually involves a combination of medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Ways to Manage or Prevent
Regular exercise, a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular check-ups can help manage and prevent arthritis.
Impact on Patients and Families: Arthritis can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, affecting their ability to perform daily activities. It can also cause emotional strain for family members and caregivers.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Arthritis. Retrieved from: https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/index.htm

# data[].attributes.body
Causes

is usually caused by a bacterial or viral infection that invades the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF)

Symptoms

-a high temperature (fever)

-being sick.

-a headache.

-a rash that does not fade when a glass is rolled over it (but a -rash will not always develop)

-a stiff neck.

Risk factors

Skipping vaccinations. Risk rises for anyone who hasn't completed the recommended childhood or adult vaccination schedule.

Age. Most cases of viral meningitis occur in children younger than age 5 years.

Prevalence

In 2021, there were about 210 total cases of meningococcal disease reported

Why is it common in kids

A child is more at risk for meningitis if he or she has an infection caused by a number of viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Children with a weakened immune system are at great risk.

Diagnosis and treatment

A definitive diagnosis of meningitis requires a spinal tap to collect cerebrospinal fluid.

intravenous (IV) antibiotics.

the earlier the treatment starts, the better your outcome.

antibiotics can start before the results of the lumbar puncture are available.

a corticosteroid, or steroid, such as dexamethasone can decrease inflammation and reduce pressure that can build up in the brain

Prevention

Vaccinations. Routine immunization can go a long way toward preventing meningitis. The Hib, measles, mumps, polio, and pneumococcal vaccines can protect against meningitis caused by those germs. Kids also should get vaccines to protect against a bacterium called meningococcus.

How the illness impacts in the lives of the family

Because they will see their son tired

Meningitis in Children | Boston Children’s Hospital. (n.d.). https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/meningitis

# data[].attributes.body
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is when the pressure in your blood vessels is too high (140/90 mmHg or higher). It is common but can be serious if not treated.

CAUSES:
Many times hypertension is caused by other illness like:

kidney disease

diabetes

long

sleep apnoea

glomerulonephritis

hormone problems

lupus

scleroderma

And the intake of some medications

SYMPTOMS:
People with very high blood pressure (usually 180/120 or higher) can experience symptoms including:

severe headaches

chest pain

dizziness

difficulty breathing

nausea

vomiting

blurred vision or other vision changes

anxiety

confusion

buzzing in the ears

nosebleeds

abnormal heart rhythm

RISK FACTORS:

older age

genetics

being overweight or obese

not being physically active

high-salt diet

drinking too much alcohol

PREVALENCE:
Approximately 60% of the population has HTN by 60 years of age and about 65% of men and 75% of women develop high BP by 70 years.

WHY IS IT COMMON IN ELDERLY PEOPLE?
Because of the bad habits in their daily activities, and in some cases is related to the medication they have to take.

DIAGNOSIS:
High blood pressure does not usually have any symptoms, so the only way to find out if you have it is to get your blood pressure checked.

TREATMENT OPTIONS:

eating a healthy, low-salt diet

losing weight

being physically active

quitting tobacco.

MANAGE OR PREVENT:

Eat more vegetables and fruits.

Sit less.

Be more physically active, which can include walking, running, swimming, dancing or activities that build strength, like lifting weights.

Get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity.

Do strength building exercises 2 or more days each week.

Lose weight if you’re overweight or obese.

Take medicines as prescribed by your health care professional.

Keep appointments with your health care professional.

HOW ILLNESS IMPACTS IN THEIR LIVES?:
Hypertension in older adults is related to adverse cardiovascular outcomes, such as heart failure, stroke, myocardial infarction, and death.

So it can change radically their daily activities, to change them into more healthy ones, like doing more exercise and eating more healthy food, and also going to visit the doctor so they can follow a healthcare planification

REFERENCE:
Oliveros, E., Patel, H., Kyung, S., Fugar, S., Goldberg, A., Madan, N., & Williams, K. A. (2020). Hypertension in older adults: Assessment, management, and challenges. Clinical Cardiology, 43(2), 99–107. https://doi.org/10.1002/clc.23303
World Health Organization: WHO. (2023, March 16). Hypertension. World Health Organization: WHO. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hypertension

# data[].attributes.body
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decreases, or when the structure and strength of bone changes. This can lead to a decrease in bone strength that can increase the risk of fractures (broken bones).

CAUSES:
Osteoporosis happens as you get older and your bones lose their ability to regrow and reform themselves.
Your bones are living tissue like any other part of your body. It might not seem like it, but they’re constantly replacing their own cells and tissue throughout your life. Up until about age 30, your body naturally builds more bone than you lose. After age 35, bone breakdown happens faster than your body can replace it, which causes a gradual loss of bone mass.

SYMPTOMS:

These warning signs of osteoporosis can include:

Losing an inch or more of your height.

Changes in your natural posture (stooping or bending forward more).

Shortness of breath (if disks in your spine are compressed enough to reduce your lung capacity).

Lower back pain (pain in your lumbar spine).

RISK FACTORS:

Your sex. Women are much more likely to develop osteoporosis than are men.

Age. The older you get, the greater your risk of osteoporosis.

Race. You're at greatest risk of osteoporosis if you're white or of Asian descent.

Family history. Having a parent or sibling with osteoporosis puts you at greater risk, especially if your mother or father fractured a hip.

Body frame size. Men and women who have small body frames tend to have a higher risk because they might have less bone mass to draw from as they age.

PREVALENCE:
Osteoporosis is common in people over 50. Experts estimate that half of all people assigned female at birth and 1 in 4 people assigned male at birth over 50 have osteoporosis.

Studies have found that 1 in 3 adults over 50 who don’t have osteoporosis yet have some degree of reduced bone density (osteopenia). People with osteopenia have early signs of osteoporosis. If it’s not treated, osteopenia can become osteoporosis.

WHY IS IT COMMON IN ELDERLY PEOPLE?
Because as time passes the osteocytes can´t be replaced no more, so it is pretty common in older people

DIAGNOSIS:
A healthcare provider will diagnose osteoporosis with a bone density test. A bone density test is an imaging test that measures the strength of your bones. It uses X-rays to measure how much calcium and other minerals are in your bones.

TREATMENT OPTIONS:

Exercise

Use vitamin and mineral supplements

The use of medication for osteoporosis

MANAGE OR PREVENT:

Always wear your seatbelt.

Wear the right protective equipment for all activities and sports.

Make sure your home and workspace are free from clutter that could trip you or others.

Always use the proper tools or equipment at home to reach things. Never stand on chairs, tables or countertops.

Follow a diet and exercise plan that’s healthy for you.

Use a cane or walker if you have difficulty walking or have an increased risk for falls.

HOW ILLNESS IMPACTS IN THEIR LIVES?:
Osteoporosis itself isn’t fatal and won’t change your life expectancy (how long you’ll live). But it can make you more likely to experience a bone fracture (and can increase your risk of more severe breaks or complications from a fracture). Some studies have found that hip fractures in adults older than 65 lead to reduced mobility and an earlier death.
Talk to your healthcare provider if you’re worried about your risk of falls or bone fractures. They’ll help you stay safe and healthy.

REFERENCE:
NIAMS. (2017, April 7). Osteoporosis. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoporosis
Osteoporosis - Symptoms and causes. (2024, February 24). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoporosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351968
professional, C. C. medical. (n.d.). Osteoporosis. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved March 6, 2024, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4443-osteoporosis

# data[].attributes.body
Stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis, is typically caused by several different viruses. The most common viruses associated with stomach flu include:
Causes:
1. Norovirus: This is the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis in adults and children. It spreads easily in crowded places such as daycare centers, schools, and cruise ships. Norovirus can also be transmitted through contaminated food and water.
2. Rotavirus: Rotavirus is a common cause of viral gastroenteritis in infants and young children. It spreads through contact with feces from an infected person, contaminated objects, or surfaces.
3. Adenovirus: Certain strains of adenovirus can cause gastroenteritis, particularly in children. Adenovirus infections can occur year-round and may cause outbreaks in daycare settings.
4. Astrovirus: Astrovirus infections are more common in young children, elderly adults, and people with weakened immune systems. The virus is spread through the fecal-oral route.

Symptoms
Stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis, typically presents with a range of symptoms that affect the gastrointestinal tract. These symptoms can vary in severity and may include:
1. Nausea: Feeling sick to the stomach and an urge to vomit is a common symptom of stomach flu.
2. Vomiting: Many individuals with stomach flu experience vomiting, which can occur multiple times over the course of the illness.
3. Diarrhea: Watery or loose stools are another hallmark symptom of viral gastroenteritis.
4. Abdominal Pain: Cramping or discomfort in the abdominal area is often present with stomach flu. The pain can range from mild to severe.
5. Fever: Some individuals may develop a fever, which can be low-grade or high, depending on the severity of the infection.

Risks factors

1. Age: Infants, are more susceptible to stomach flu because their immune systems may not be as strong or as effective at fighting off infections.
2. Weakened Immune System: Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or taking immunosuppressive medications, are at higher risk of developing stomach flu and experiencing more severe symptoms.
3. Living in Close Quarters: Stomach flu can spread easily in crowded environments such as daycare centers, schools, nursing homes, and military barracks, where close contact with infected individuals is common.
4. Poor Hygiene Practices: Poor hand hygiene, such as not washing hands thoroughly after using the bathroom, can increase the risk of contracting stomach flu. Contaminated food and water are common sources of viral gastroenteritis.
5. Consumption of Contaminated Food or Water: Eating or drinking food and beverages that have been contaminated with viruses or bacteria, such as norovirus, rotavirus, Salmonella, can lead to stomach flu.

Why its common in kids?

1. Immature Immune System: Children have developing immune systems that may not be as robust as those of adults.
2. Close Contact in Schools and Daycare Centers: Children often spend time in close proximity to one another in schools, daycare centers, and playgrounds.
3. Hand-to-Mouth Behavior: Young children are more likely to put their hands or objects in their mouths, increasing the risk of ingesting viruses or bacteria that can cause stomach flu.
4. Less Hygienic Practices: Children may not have developed proper hygiene habits, such as washing hands thoroughly after using the bathroom or before eating.
5. Limited Immunity: Children may not have been exposed to certain viruses or developed immunity to them, making them more susceptible to infections.
6. Exposure to Contaminated Surfaces and Objects: Children frequently come into contact with contaminated surfaces, toys, and objects that may harbor viruses and bacteria.

Daignosis and treatment

1. Clinical Evaluation: The doctor will review the patient's medical history and symptoms, including the onset and duration of symptoms, recent exposure to sick individuals, and any recent travel or dietary changes.
2. Physical Examination: The doctor will perform a physical exam to assess vital signs, abdominal tenderness, and signs of dehydration.
3. Stool Sample Analysis: In some cases, a stool sample may be collected and analyzed to identify the presence of viruses, bacteria, or parasites that may be causing gastroenteritis.

1. Fluid Replacement: The primary goal of treatment is to prevent dehydration by replacing lost fluids and electrolytes.
2. Dietary Management: While experiencing stomach flu, it's essential to avoid solid foods until vomiting and diarrhea have subsided. Clear liquids such as water, broth, electrolyte solutions, and oral rehydration solutions are typically recommended initially.
3. Medications:
- Antiemetics: Medications to control nausea and vomiting may be prescribed in severe cases or for symptomatic relief. However, they are generally avoided in children and not recommended for routine use due to potential side effects.

Prevention

1. Encourage Proper Hand Hygiene: Teach children to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the bathroom, before eating, and after playing with toys. Hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol can be used when soap and water are not available.
2. Promote Good Hygiene Practices: Teach children to cover their mouths and noses with a tissue or their elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.
3. Disinfect Surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects, such as doorknobs, toys, and countertops, to reduce the spread of viruses and bacteria.
4. Limit Exposure to Sick Individuals: Encourage children to avoid close contact with individuals who are sick with stomach flu or other contagious illnesses.
5. Practice Food Safety: Ensure that food is stored, handled, and prepared safely to prevent contamination and foodborne illnesses. Teach children about the importance of washing fruits and vegetables before eating.

How illness impacts on their life?

1. Physical Discomfort: Stomach flu often causes symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and fatigue. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and disruptive, making it challenging to carry out daily activities and routines.

2. Missed School or Work: Stomach flu can lead to missed days of school or work for both children and adults. When children are sick, parents may need to take time off from work to care for them, resulting in disruptions to work schedules and potential loss of income.

APA
Neumors kids healt, September 2021, https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/gastroenteritis.html

WebbMD, Jaunuary 2022, https://www.webmd.com/children/features/the-truth-about-stomach-flu