When to Call Your Pediatrician: Flu, Fever, Rashes, and More

Being a new parent is one of the scariest and most exhilarating experiences in a person’s life. From the moment your child is born, you start worrying all the germs they are exposed to and experience panic when they get sick with fever, tummy aches, or the flu. There is also the added confusion of when to call the doctor, and when its best to ride it out.

According to the latest statistics by the Centers for Disease Control And Prevention, over 170 million visits to the doctor’s office are made for children under 18 years of age.

A parent should always feel comfortable calling the pediatrician’s office for any concerns they have regarding their child.

However, it’s important not to call them constantly for minor issues such as hiccups or the occasional tummy ache.

Here are some key concerns when getting in touch with a pro is vital for your child’s health: 

Fever

Parent’s often panic when their child’s temperature spikes above normal levels. However, getting a fever isn’t always a bad thing. Most doctors insist that a fever is an ally rather than an enemy and is the natural response of the body to fight off any viruses and resulting infections.

But if your child is under the age of two to three months, you must get in touch with the pediatrician right away evenfor a mild fever. Similarly, a high fever that is above 103 degrees and may or may not be accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, trouble breathing, and a rash is definitely a cause for concern.

Vomiting or Diarrhea

Most parents have experienced episodes where their child has puked up the entire dinner on the floor or had the runs. Usually, a single episode is a sign of overeating or indigestion and doesn’t require panic dialing the pediatrician. However, if the condition persists, it can lead to severe dehydration, which can be fatal. If the vomiting and diarrhea have lasted for more than a few hours, your pediatrician must examine the child to make a proper diagnosis for their condition and prescribe the right treatment.

Colds, cough, and other respiratory issues

Colds and coughing in older children don’t necessarily require a visit to the doctor. However, if your infant or toddler is displaying signs of cold or other respiratory issues, you should call the pediatrician immediately. Colds in young children can often progress into serious medical conditions such as bronchiolitis, pneumonia, or croup.

Regular Checkups with Pediatric Specialists in Sacramento

Regular checkups are essential to safeguard the long-term health of your child and to provide proper preventive care. The pediatric specialists at Natomas Family Practice can help you ensure the wellbeing of your child. They provide exceptional medical servicesfor children in Sacramento, including immunizations, family medicine, and treatment for physical injuries.

For more information about their pediatric services, contact them today at 916-928-0856.