More and more children in SH in the hospital: AOK reports alarming climb!

More and more children in SH in the hospital: AOK reports alarming climb!

Kiel. The AOK Nordwest reports of a dramatic plus of 9.6 percent in the instructions compared to 2020. In 2023, a total of 7852 children under the age of 17 were treated in clinics, whereas only 7472 in the previous year. The most common reason? A concussion! Acute bronchitis and gastrointestinal infections are also common causes of hospital visits.

But not all experts are alerted! Dr. Domagoj Schunk, the medical director of the interdisciplinary emergency room at the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), sees no worrying trend. The number of children who come to the UKSH via the emergency room remains stable. "Most children are treated on an outpatient basis," explains Schunk. Only about 15 percent have to remain stationary. Nevertheless, concealing the brain remains the main reason for the instructions, especially for infants and toddlers.

What do you do when it comes to concussion? Tips from the expert

The parents' uncertainty is great when it comes to injuries to the head. When should you go to the doctor or the emergency room? Dr. Schunk advises to listen to your own gut feeling. "Parents know their child best," he says. In infants, you should always see a doctor with a head trauma to rule out serious injuries. Symptoms such as nausea, headache or even unconsciousness require immediate medical help!

A stay in the hospital can be a major challenge for families. In order to relieve the children's fear, it is important to prepare them well. If necessary, parents are supported by the health insurance companies in accompanying them in the hospital. At a time when our children's health comes first, it is crucial to stay vigilant!