It seems like my children always get sick around the holiday season which follows us into the New Year. I’m not sure if it’s the additional parties with other kids, traveling, staying up late, or just too much excitement, but we can never escape contracting at least one illness. This year we have had colds, flu, and pinkeye so far - and although we usually get better with naps and acetaminophen, I find myself in the pediatrician’s waiting room more often than I'd like.
When to Take Your Child to the Doctor
When your child’s fever reaches 103 or higher, it’s time to give your doctor a call. As long as your child is interacting with you; is playful and active, and doesn’t appear to be lethargic, it isn't necessary to rush them to the doctor or emergency room; but it is a really good idea to call your doctor’s office and let them know what’s going on. The doctor or nurse will be able to give you advice on over the counter fever medication doses or other methods to reduce your child’s fever. If you are following the dosing instructions for your child’s age and the fever is not coming down after a proper dose of medication, bring your child in to be evaluated. If your child is a newborn under the age of three months, any fever is worrisome and needs to be evaluated by your doctor.
Stomach flu: The stomach flu is just plain miserable. But fortunately it usually lasts less than 24 hours. If your child is vomiting or has diarrhea so frequently they cannot keep down any fluids, you may have to bring them to the emergency room. Your child needs to be urinating at least once every 6-8 hours. If they are not, it could be a sign of severe dehydration and you may need to bring them to the emergency room for IV fluids or anti-nausea medication. Many pediatricians’ offices are not set up to do this so call first - you may be instructed to go to the emergency room instead. If you see any blood in the vomit or diarrhea take your child to the doctor right away.
Pinkeye: Eye discharge that sticks the eyelids together, is thick, or persists during the day needs to be evaluated by a doctor. It could indicate an infection with serious consequences.
Upper respiratory infections: Most of these are just viruses and will go away in a couple days. But if you are concerned with your child’s breathing - they are breathing loud, fast, or seem to be working hard to breathe, take them in right away. A stiff neck is also concerning and worth a trip to the doctor. If they have a cold that lasts more than a week, or a persistent cough, call your doctor.
“A mother just knows:” If you are concerned that your child just doesn’t seem right, bring them in to see a doctor, or at least call your pediatrician. Parents are often right when they think something more serious is affecting their child.
Travel: If your child has recently traveled out of the country and then comes down with an illness, please take him in to be evaluated immediately.
To prevent sickness, remember to wash hands regularly especially before and after eating.
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