Frequently sick children
Why are some children so often sick?
At the Clinic for Children, we regularly see children with recurrent ear infections, sore throats, prolonged coughs, bronchitis, and repeated chest infections.
The causes of this are multifactorial. Common contributing factors include:
Immune system development
Young children are still building immune memory. Exposure to common viruses is part of this process, but the frequency and severity can vary greatly between children.
High exposure to infections
Attendance at daycare or school, as well as siblings, increases exposure to respiratory viruses and bacteria.
Airway sensitivity and inflammation
Some children have more reactive airways, predisposing them to wheezing, asthma-like symptoms, or prolonged cough after infections.
Enlarged adenoids or tonsils
These may contribute to recurrent ear infections, nasal congestion, mouth breathing, snoring, and disturbed sleep.
Allergies and environmental triggers
Allergic inflammation (e.g. dust mite, pollen, animal dander) can weaken local defences in the airways and increase susceptibility to infections.
Gut health and microbiome balance
A large part of the immune system is located in the gut. Imbalances in gut flora may influence immune responses and recovery.
Nutrition, sleep, and lifestyle factors
Suboptimal nutrition, poor sleep, or ongoing stress can reduce immune resilience.
Individual susceptibility
Some children simply have a higher tendency toward infections without an identifiable serious underlying condition.
What are the standard treatments offered by doctors for children who are frequently sick?
Conventional medical treatment options may include one or a combination of the following:
Careful clinical evaluation to distinguish between viral and bacterial infections
Watchful waiting for self-limiting viral illnesses
Pain relief and fever management (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
Antibiotics when there is clear evidence of bacterial infection
Referral to specialists, such as ENT or paediatric pulmonology, when needed
In children with persistent or recurrent symptoms, ENT (ear, nose, and throat) interventions are sometimes considered
Grommets (ventilation tubes) for recurrent ear infections or persistent middle ear fluid
Adenoidectomy (removal of adenoids) in cases of chronic nasal obstruction, recurrent infections, or sleep-disordered breathing
Tonsillectomy for severe, recurrent tonsillitis or significant airway obstruction
How does the Clinic for Children treat children who are frequently sick?
At the Clinic for Children, conventional paediatric care is always the starting point. At the same time, we take a broader, integrative approach to understand and address factors that may contribute to frequent illness.
The Clinic approach includes:
Individualized assessment
We carefully evaluate the pattern and frequency of infections, recovery time, and contributing factors such as environment, sleep, nutrition and general wellbeing.
Supporting the immune system
The aim is to reduce the frequency and severity of illness, improve recovery, and strengthen overall resilience.
Nutrition and gut health
We assess dietary patterns, digestive health, and the microbiome, and may recommend targeted nutritional support where appropriate.
Complementary treatments
When suitable, we may use evidence-informed supplements, phytotherapy (herbal medicine), or homeopathy as supportive therapies alongside conventional care.
Identifying triggers
We consider factors such as allergies, environmental exposures, sleep disturbances, and airway issues that may contribute to recurrent illness.
Coordination with specialists
When needed, we collaborate with ENT specialists and other paediatric subspecialists. Decisions about further investigations or treatments are made carefully, based on the child’s overall health, development, and symptom pattern. ENT surgery may reduce symptoms in selected children, but should be carefully balanced against natural improvement over time and less invasive options.
Looking for an integrative paediatrician and classical homeopath near The Hague or Wassenaar?
We have over 22 years of experience in paediatric care and expertise in guiding expat families in the Netherlands. Call us to make an appointment or ask any questions — in both English and Dutch.
Studies and updates of interest for further reading on frequently sick children
The gut microbiome plays a central role in immune regulation, with increasing evidence linking microbial balance to susceptibility to respiratory infections.
Here are links to articles related to this topic:
Publication 1
Publication 2
Selected clinical studies suggest that phytotherapy (herbal medicine) may support symptom relief and recovery in respiratory infections in children, including preparations containing pelargonium, echinacea, thyme, and propolis.
Here are links to articles related to this topic:
Publication 1
Publication 2
Evidence on homeopathy remains mixed; however, some clinical trials and observational studies suggest potential benefit in children with recurrent respiratory infections when used alongside conventional care.
Here are links to articles related to this topic:
Publication 1
Publication 2
