How Do You Explain Chronic Illness To A Child?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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  1. Set aside as much uninterrupted time as possible. …
  2. Children pick up on your energy. …
  3. Speak in terms they can understand. …
  4. Consider the timing of your news and how it may affect other areas of their lives. …
  5. Allow them to ask questions. …
  6. Ask them questions.

What is chronic disease in simple words?

Chronic diseases are defined broadly as

conditions that last 1 year or more and require ongoing medical attention or limit activities of daily living or both

. Chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States.

How does a chronic illness affect a child?

Nevertheless, children who have a chronic illness or condition often feel “different,” socially isolated, and restricted in their activities. They may have

school problems and feel overprotected

. They may experience recurrent fear and pain.

What is the most common chronic illness in childhood?

Although largely preventable,

dental caries (cavities)

is the most common chronic disease in children in the United States: it is 4 times more common than early childhood obesity, 5 times as common as asthma, 7 times as common as hay fever and 20 times more common than diabetes.

How do you deal with a Chronicly ill child?

  1. Talk to others. …
  2. Share the responsibilities. …
  3. Use respite workers. …
  4. Attend community health support meetings. …
  5. Maintain good physical health. …
  6. Relax and take time for yourself. …
  7. See a counsellor (family or individual)

How does illness affect child’s Behaviour?

June 22, 2000 (Atlanta) — Chronically ill children tend to be

more submissive and less socially outgoing than healthy children

, a new study shows. Further, kids who live with pain and physical restrictions may be more likely to have problems relating to their peers.

How does chronic illness affect a child’s physical development?

Chronic illness can affect a child’s

social development

; children who have physical restrictions and pain are particularly vulnerable. Psychiatrists recommend both individual and group social activities for chronically ill children.

What are the 7 most common chronic diseases?

  • ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease)
  • Alzheimer’s Disease and other Dementias.
  • Arthritis.
  • Asthma.
  • Cancer.
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
  • Cystic Fibrosis.
  • Diabetes.

What are the 5 most common childhood illnesses?

  • Cold. About 52.2 million colds are endured by children in America annually. …
  • Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) …
  • Roseola. …
  • Gastroenteritis. …
  • Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease. …
  • Fifth Disease. …
  • Group A Strep. …
  • Influenza.

What are the six killer childhood diseases?

  • #1. Polio. Polio is a crippling and potentially deadly infectious disease that is caused by poliovirus. …
  • #2. Tetanus. …
  • #3. The Flu (Influenza) …
  • #4. Hepatitis B. …
  • #5. Hepatitis A. …
  • #6. Rubella. …
  • #7. Hib. …
  • #8. Measles.

How does having a sick parent affect a child?

Various studies indicate that children and adolescents who are growing up with a chronically ill family member experience negative consequences from this situation in their daily lives such as

mental health problems

[1], problems in the parent-child relationship, and inadequate school results [2, 3].

What are the signs and symptoms of an unwell child?

  • be fretful or listless, or irritable when disturbed.
  • cry readily and not be easily comforted.
  • lose interest in playing or is unusually quiet and inactive.
  • be unusually quiet and inactive.
  • not want to eat.
  • feel hot to touch.
  • look tired and flushed or pale.
  • complain of feeling cold.

How does chronic illness affect a child’s emotional development?

Increased physical symptoms can have a negative effect on a child’s emotional health. Chronic illnesses

can interfere with children’s happiness and how they feel about themselves

. When children are distressed and unhappy, their illness may be harder to control.

What are some possible signs of emotional and Behavioural problems?

  • Easily getting annoyed or nervous.
  • Often appearing angry.
  • Putting blame on others.
  • Refusing to follow rules or questioning authority.
  • Arguing and throwing temper tantrums.
  • Having difficulty in handling frustration.
Carlos Perez
Author
Carlos Perez
Carlos Perez is an education expert and teacher with over 20 years of experience working with youth. He holds a degree in education and has taught in both public and private schools, as well as in community-based organizations. Carlos is passionate about empowering young people and helping them reach their full potential through education and mentorship.