Children’s Day Alert: Why India’s Kids Are Getting Sicker, Not Stronger

A strong immune system is vital not just to living a healthy life, but in the case of children, a must-have for growth. Children need constant care and a proper health routine to ensure that they do not have any

medical issues when they grow up and lead a healthy, strong life. However, at present, millions of kids in India have many kinds of growth disorders from conditions like genetic syndromes, chronic diseases like kidney or heart disease, developmental disabilities, or even hormonal issues. Also, environmental issues like pollution have been a major impediment to children’s health over the last decade. Those living in Delhi-NCR are facing issues related to the respiratory system, neurological issues, heart problems, and even problems in brain development. Doctors say growth problems are a major public health concern, also linked to malnutrition, which contributes to a significant number of deaths in children under five.

Signs your child has low immunity levels

Here are the 5 signs that your child must be having a low immune system and needs to be worked on immediately.

The child often gets sick

According to doctors, if your child constantly faces symptoms of cold and flu, which last for at least three to four weeks, it may be because your child's antibodies are weak to fight the disease. Having regular colds often means that the child's immunity is weak, and they get sick often. Doctors say children usually get colds three or four times a year, but if it happens more than that, then it is something to look into.

Irregular bowel movements

One of the major issues with your child’s immunity can be found in how their digestive system works. Doctors say that if there is any trouble in the kids’ digestive tract, then the immune system also suffers. Diarrhoea usually happens when someone has a weak immune system, and gas trouble and constipation are also results of weak immunity. With the children consuming a lot of junk and processed food today, it can cause them to have improper digestion, which could further lead to weakening their immune system.

Frequent infections that are harder to treat

Infections are common among growing children, but not as common to have them frequently, as their bodies should have enough strength to prevent an infection. A child should not be getting infections every now and then, as their age is proven to have better immunity to fight infections. Infections such as ear issues, asthma, pneumonia, and sinusitis are major concerns for individuals with weak immunity. Another factor is that it becomes harder to treat your kid’s infection, while the antibodies should be getting stronger, as their failure to fight the infection makes it harder to treat them.

Lack of energy

If your child lacks energy and enthusiasm to do things at their age, it is a cause for concern. Many children spend a lot of time sulking and sitting around, which doctors say may be due to their weak immune system, making them too weak to have the energy to perform any activity. A child should be able to run around and play as much as they want, but if their body does not let them, as they get tired and exhausted, they will soon become restless over time.

Injuries don’t heal fast

Children are always getting injured, which experts believe is a normal part of growing up. However, when their injuries take a considerably longer time to heal, it can be due to a weak immune system. Having wounds that take longer to recover can also lead to many infections, which, again, if the child has weak immunity, can worsen.

How can you boost immunity?

• Maintain good hygiene
• Ensure sufficient sleep
• A healthy and balanced diet
• Ensure physical activities
• Maintain a healthy weight.