Quick Consult: Back-to-school health tips with Trinity Health IHA Medical Group physician

This was originally published in Friday Musings on Sept. 6.

Aimee Pollak, MD, is a Board-certified pediatrician with Trinity Health IHA Medical Group – Orchard Pediatrics, located in Farmington Hills. She recently spoke with Friday Musings to discuss what local parents and children should do to ensure a healthy school year for students and their families, as well as common illnesses to prepare for.

Q: With school back in session, what are some tips to ensure a year of health for children?

Dr. Pollak: First and foremost, a healthy, balanced diet and staying physically active is a great way to ensure a healthy body and mind. Some examples include consuming nutritious foods and drinks, working out, and participating in a school activity/sport.

Getting a good night of sleep is also crucial. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 9-11 hours of sleep for school aged children, so make sure their bedtime is at a reasonable hour and that you remove electronic devices during their bedtime routine.

Finally, checking in regularly with family members and friends can ensure healthy social connections and a healthy mind. If something is troubling you, talk about it with a loved one or close friend. Having a strong support system is vital during difficult times.

Q: The school year is a busy time for children, so what are some other ways to help alleviate excessive anxiety or stress they may be feeling?

Dr. Pollak: It’s important to know that being stressed, overwhelmed or anxious is perfectly normal. Whether it’s a child studying for an important test, or nervousness surrounding a big game, being mentally exhausted is quite common.

It’s important to help your child find balance in life. It is equally important to support your children in their pursuits and interests so they don’t feel alone, isolated or overwhelmed. We all have a lot going on, including our children, so making sure everyone is well prepared and supported goes a long way.

Whether your child is studying for a big test or has a big game coming up, it is not uncommon for them to feel anxious. It is important to make sure your child isn’t too overwhelmed, that they feel supported in their pursuits, and that you help them find a sense of balance. It’s okay to pause and take a break. Some activities such as walking outdoors, yoga, coloring, or just spending time with loved ones can help your child reset when they feel overwhelmed.

Q: What are some common illnesses that pop up once kids go back to school? And what are some signs and symptoms?

Dr. Pollak: It is very common to see viral infections at the beginning of each school year, including the common cold, GI illnesses (stomach viruses), Influenza, COVID-19 and more. Some symptoms may include a cough, runny/stuffy nose, sore throat, fever, rashes, vomiting, diarrhea and more.

Q: Are there ways to prevent these illnesses from spreading?

Dr. Pollak: Luckily for us, these illnesses begin to pick up in late October into the colder months of the year, so we have time to prepare. Some effective prevention methods are washing your hands consistently throughout the day, keep your hands away from your eyes/mouth, cover your cough, consuming healthy and nutritious foods and beverages, staying active, and being up-to-date on all your vaccinations, including COVID-19 and Influenza.

If you do end up getting sick, make sure you stay home as much as you can. That way, you can properly recover while also preventing the spread of your illness.

Q: If a child is severely ill or injured, where in the community can parents turn to for medical support?

Dr. Pollak: If there is ever any emergency, Trinity Health Livonia is the place to go. The hospital is located at 36475 Five Mile Road.

For things that don’t require emergency attention, community members can go to the Trinity Health IHA Urgent Care, located on the campus of Schoolcraft College at 19000 St. Joe’s Parkway, Suite 140.

Whether it’s during the school year or not, Trinity Health IHA Medical Group is here for you to provide the high-quality care you and your family deserve.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Pollak, you can reach her office at 248-855-7510. You can also schedule an appointment online by clicking here.