The holiday season is a magical time for families, but it’s also the peak of cold and flu season. At BeeHome Pediatrics, Dr. Margie Diaz-Ochu understands that you want your little ones to enjoy all the fun of the holidays while staying healthy. As your trusted pediatrician, Dr. Diaz-Ochu is committed to offering personalized, accessible care—available to you 24/7, even through text, ensuring you get the guidance you need, right when you need it.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the common illnesses kids face during the winter months and how you can help them feel better faster, while also highlighting what makes BeeHome Pediatrics the best place for your family’s care.

Common Winter Illnesses in Kids

As temperatures drop, the likelihood of respiratory illnesses like the flu, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), and common colds increases. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to look for:

• Flu: Fever, chills, body aches, fatigue, cough, and sore throat. It’s important to recognize flu symptoms early so you can provide comfort to your child and help them recover faster.
• RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): Often presenting with cold-like symptoms (runny nose, cough, fever), RSV can lead to more serious respiratory distress, especially in infants. Watch for signs like difficulty breathing, rapid or shallow breathing, and a noticeable decrease in activity level.
• Common Cold: This one’s harder to avoid but generally comes with mild symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, cough, and sneezing. Keep an eye on the severity of symptoms and the duration.
• COVID-19: Like the flu, COVID-19 can cause fever, cough, and fatigue. Be sure to monitor for any concerning symptoms and follow the guidelines for testing and quarantine.

At-Home Care for Respiratory Illnesses

When your little one gets sick, it can be tough to watch them struggle. But there are things you can do at home to help them bounce back:

• Warm liquids: For soothing a cough or sore throat, try offering warm fluids like water, herbal teas (with honey for children over 1 year old), or broths. Honey can also be helpful for older children to reduce coughing.
• Humidifiers: Use a humidifier in their room to keep the air moist. This can help with nasal congestion and coughing.
• Saline drops: Saline nasal drops can help clear out mucus and make it easier for your child to breathe.

When to Worry: Red Flags for Parents

While many respiratory illnesses are self-limiting and improve within a few days, there are certain signs that require medical attention, especially for infants and young children. Here’s when to worry:

• Infants and toddlers: If your baby is breathing fast or showing signs of labored breathing (like flaring nostrils or the ribs pulling in), it’s time to seek medical help. Similarly, if they’re becoming lethargic or difficult to rouse, don’t hesitate to call your pediatrician.
• Slow or shallow breathing: If your child’s breathing becomes slow or shallow, or if their lips or face turn blue, these are signs they need immediate care.
• Dehydration: If your child isn’t drinking fluids, hasn’t had a wet diaper in over six hours, or is showing signs of dehydration (dry mouth, fewer tears, sunken eyes), it’s time to reach out for assistance.

At BeeHome Pediatrics, Dr. Diaz-Ochu is always just a text or phone call away. You can even send her a quick photo, and she’ll respond to help assess your child’s symptoms. This direct, personalized care is what sets our practice apart. No waiting in lines, no front desk bureaucracy—just immediate access to expert advice whenever you need it.

Natural Remedies for Cough Relief

For children over the age of 1, one simple and natural remedy for a cough is warm liquids with honey. A teaspoon of honey can coat the throat, reduce irritation, and calm coughing. It’s a safe, effective treatment as long as your child is over 1 year of age. Avoid giving honey to babies under 1 year due to the risk of botulism.

Supporting Your Child Through GI Upset

Many respiratory viruses can lead to gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If your child experiences GI symptoms along with their respiratory issues, here are a few helpful tips:

• Hydration is key: Keep your child hydrated with a mix of half apple juice and half water, or opt for Pedialyte to replenish lost electrolytes.
• Monitor wet diapers: For younger children, watch for wet diapers. If your child isn’t urinating regularly, it’s a sign they’re not getting enough fluids.
• When to Call: If vomiting or diarrhea lasts for more than a day or is accompanied by a high fever, don’t hesitate to reach out. And, of course, if your child isn’t drinking fluids or showing signs of dehydration, it’s important to call for guidance.

Why BeeHome Pediatrics Is Different

What truly makes BeeHome Pediatrics stand out is the personal care Dr. Diaz-Ochu offers. As your pediatrician, she’s not just here for you during office hours—she’s available 24/7, always just a text, call, or email away. With the ability to send pictures for a quick assessment, you can get peace of mind without stepping into a crowded waiting room. Dr. Diaz-Ochu is dedicated to offering the most personalized care possible, ensuring you never feel alone when it comes to your child’s health.

Looking Ahead: Keeping Your Kids Healthy This Winter

As we head into the colder months, remember that your child’s health is our priority at BeeHome Pediatrics. From respiratory illnesses to GI concerns, we’ve got you covered with expert advice, fast responses, and natural treatments. We’re always here for you and your family, offering the kind of care that helps you feel confident and supported through every cold and flu season.

To learn how to join our hive and improve the health of your honey bee, contact Dr. Margie Diaz-Ochu today at 435-513-PEDS or visit BeeHomePediatrics.com. Your child’s health is in the best hands with us!