Your Little One Is Sick: 3 Symptoms You Should Never Ignore
If you have kids, you know that there's no way to prevent all illnesses. Most childhood illnesses will pass right through your children in a day or two. In most cases, you won't even have to take your child to the doctor. That doesn't mean you shouldn't keep an eye out for warning signs – those symptoms that could mean your child needs medical attention right away. If your child experiences any of the three symptoms described below, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Tongue or Facial Swelling
Allergic reactions can cause tongue and facial swelling. Unfortunately, you don't always know what your children are allergic to. If your child begins complaining about their tongue feeling swollen, or you notice swelling in their face or lips, they may be suffering from an acute allergic reaction to something. If your child has swelling in the tongue, lips or face – including the eyelids – you should get your child to the doctor as soon as possible. If your child begins vomiting or is having trouble breathing, call 9-1-1.
Persistent Fever
Children often get fevers when they're sick but they usually go away within a day or two. If your child has had a fever for more than a couple of days, or the fever continues to increase even after fever reducer has been administered, the fever may be caused by an infection. You should contact your pediatrician as soon as possible.
In some situations, you should seek immediate medical attention for your child regardless of how long they've had the fever. If your baby fits into either of the categories listed below, seek emergency medical attention right away.
- Babies younger than 3 months of age – 100.4F
- Babies 3 months to 3 years of age – fevers above 102.2F
Dehydration
Dry diapers are usually something to look forward too, especially when you're potty training your child. However, dry diapers can also be a danger sign of dehydration. If your child has been sick and hasn't had a wet diaper in several hours, they may be dehydrated. This is particularly true if your child has had a fever or has been vomiting. Check your child for the following signs.
- Dry skin – skin does not bounce back when pinched together
- Dry lips – lips appear to be pale or wrinkled
- Flat or sunken fontanelle – soft spot (in infants)
Most childhood illnesses do not require emergency medical attention. However, if your child has developed any of the symptoms described above, you should contact your physician or a health care clinic like Snow Creek Medical Center as soon as possible.
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