family health
Health worries
Whether you’re looking for additional information about a condition one of your family is diagnosed with or looking up possible ailments, you’ll find more than enough about every health problem on the web. Having said that, be aware that you are in a hypochondriac’s heaven! One genuinely useful service that the internet provides is the chance to link up with other people suffering from common or relatively rare conditions.
First port of call
- www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk is the Government-sponsored website, where you can look up about a specific condition or a health concern. To speak directly to a nurse or find out about health services in your area, you can call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
- www.surgerydoor.co.uk is a comprehensive site with all its content provided by doctors or relevant organisations. It offers a great deal of information and some very useful links, including an A-Z of complementary medicine.
Childhood illnesses
Most common childhood illnesses such as chicken pox, tonsillitis, stomach bugs and flu are usually treated at home, under supervision of a GP. Meningitis is treated in hospital and speed is of the essence. Fungal infections such as ringworm or athlete’s foot, or infestations such as head lice can usually be treated under the supervision of a pharmacist.
Asthma
If your child has asthma, the site www.asthma.org.uk provides answers to frequently asked questions and lots of ideas to alleviate symptoms. Best of all, the Children’s Section can put your child in touch with email pals to swap stories when they join the Junior Asthma Club.
Enuresis
If your child is a bedwetter, for help, advice and support you could try www.enuresis.org.uk. As well as discussion about the different approaches to solving the problem, it also has a section where older kids can find out more.
Epilepsy
If your child has epilepsy, the Epilepsy Action website can offer support and advice. Go to www.epilepsy.org.uk – you’ll find a lively community section with plenty for kids and teenagers to do online as well.
Food allergies
The main food intolerances are cow’s milk, gluten (in wheat) and eggs. Children usually grow out of food intolerances, although these can cause problems if not identified. A classic allergic reaction – most significantly swelling and rashes - can be triggered by seeds, soya products, eggs, fish, shellfish, nuts or peanuts (a separate allergy from nuts), as well as many other foods. For more information about how to deal with allergic reactions to food go to www.allergyfoundation.com
Learning difficulties
If your child has behavioural problems at school or has been identified as having a learning difficulty, you will find a lot of support on the web. There are many creative approaches you can use to help your child to develop at school and at home.
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