To take your child to the doctor or not? Is it serious? You never want your children to be sick and you want them to get well as fast as possible. But, not every symptom deserves a doctor’s visit. So, how do you know which ones to take seriously? This post is not meant as medical advice, but here are some symptoms that could be more serious…
Potentially Serious Health Symptoms in Children
1.Unusually High Fever
Some children will run a slight fever when tired. But an unusually high fever can be very dangerous and should be put in check by a medical professional. So, what is considered high?
A fever that’s 100.4F or higher in a baby younger than 3 months; higher than 101F in a baby 3 to 6 months; or higher than 103F in a child 6 months to 2 years. ~Parents.com
It may just be a common virus, but it could be something more threatening. Even a urinary tract infection can spread quickly, through the body, in a small child.
2. Fever and Headache Combo
If a child is experiencing a headache/stiff neck along with his or her fever, it could indicate the onset of meningitis. Other signs include vomiting, confusion, and lethargy. You will want to get a child, with these symptoms, to the doctor right away.
3.Rash All Over Body
Children tend to get rashes as their skin can be more sensitive. Some are nothing to worry about. If, however, the rash is covering the whole body, it may be time to get them checked out. WebMD indicates that an allergic or hive like rash will turn white and then red again when pressed and released. This kind you don’t have to worry so much about, but…
A non-blanching rash — small red or purple spots on the skin that don’t change color when you press on them — can indicate a medical emergency such as meningitis or sepsis, particularly when accompanied by a fever.
A non-blanching rash is not always a sign of something serious, but could be. Better to get checked.
4.Severe Stomach Disturbance
Vomiting and diarrhea can dehydrate a small body quickly. If your child stops urinating, it is likely time to see a doctor. Your child’s doctor may suggest oral electrolyte fluids at home but can determine if a more aggressive treatment is needed, as well as, the cause.
5.Excessive Drinking
Drinking massive amounts of fluid along with symptoms such as lethargy, headaches, and weight loss could be a sign of Type 1 Diabetes. Type 1 Diabetes can reveal itself in childhood at any age.
Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas fails to make any of the hormone insulin which is needed to control blood glucose levels. Without insulin, blood glucose levels rise dangerously high and can cause severe illness. If it is picked up in the early stages then this severe illness can be prevented. ~HealthDirect
6. Difficulty Breathing
Breathing too quickly, gasping for air, or difficulty recovering from a respiratory infection could all be signs of a breathing difficulty. If symptoms come on suddenly, make sure your child is not choking. If breathing troubles are ongoing or exercise induced, it could be an indication of asthma.
According to the CDC, nearly 10 percent of children in the United States have asthma. ~HealthLine
7. Extreme Fatigue
Fatigue can appear from a variety of reasons. It could be minor like your child is just not getting enough rest. But, it could be something more serious. Everything from a vitamin deficiency to anemia to depression can present fatigue. A doctor can help you investigate and put together what may be happening based on other symptoms.
Err on the side of caution when it comes to your child’s health. Some doctors will take calls and allow you to express your concerns without having to go into the office. If in doubt, enlist the help of an appropriate medical professional.
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