| It has become recognized by the medical community that infants
and children often receive inadequate treatment for pain. While
parents are often better at gauging how much pain a child is in
than a doctor, both parents and doctors usually underestimate a
child's discomfort. (Reuters Health; July 11, 2002)
In some cases, children may experience chronic infections or other
health problems which remain undiagnosed because they are unable
to communicate their discomfort. Sometimes untreated chronic pain
in children can lead to behavior problems, and the child may be
taken to a counselor instead of a doctor. Allergies, constipation,
diarrhea, digestive discomfort from food intolerance, persistent
nausea, recurring ear infections, headaches, or inflamed joints
may all manifest in some cases as overexcited, uncontrolled, or
withdrawn behavior in children.
A scale should be used that makes sense to the child as a gauge
of how much they hurt, but this may not work with infants. In the
case of children who are too young to speak, the duration of their
crying can be used to determine the level of pain. The goal is always
to make the child as comfortable as possible without causing adverse
side effects, just as in treating an adult.
A very important thing to remember, though, about pain control
for young children is that their bodies react far more strongly
to medication than an adult's. They are at higher risk for overdose,
withdrawal, and adverse drug reactions. Central nervous system depressants
often have a very pronounced effect on children, and they are more
likely to experience drowsiness, delerium, clumsiness, or confusion
on taking these medications.
Speak to a pediatrician before giving any medication to a child.
While there are many over the counter preparations available for
treating pain in young people, a doctor's advice should be sought
if pain or illness continues or is frequent. Minimum necessary doses
of over the counter medication should be given if you are treating
your child without the advice of a doctor, though you should seek
the advice of a physician when your child is ill.
Many prescription medications are not approved for children and
may be dangerous for them, especially in adult doses. Dosages for
children must be appropriate to their age and weight; they should
not be given medication prescribed for an adult, or even for another
child.
Keep all pain medications out of the reach of children when storing
them, and be sure to discard out-of-date medication in such a way
that children will not find it.
References:
This document is provided for information only; it is not intended
to diagnose symptoms, prescribe treatment, or to substitute for
consultation with a physician. While we have made every effort to
ensure that this information is accurate and extensive, only your
doctor can tell you if a medication, or drug combination, is safe
for you. Information intended for US residents only. |
