5 Common Childhood Illnesses and When to Consult a Pediatrician

Here are five common childhood illnesses and guidelines on when to consult a pediatrician:

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   Common Cold:

   • Symptoms: Runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, coughing, mild fever, sore throat.
   • When to Consult a Pediatrician: Contact a pediatrician if your child’s symptoms persist for more than a week, worsen, or if they have difficulty breathing, high fever, severe ear pain, or unusual fatigue.

2. Fever:

   • Symptoms: Elevated body temperature, chills, irritability, poor appetite.
   • When to Consult a Pediatrician: Consult a pediatrician if your child is under 3 months old with a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or if an older child’s fever persists for more than a few days or is associated with other concerning symptoms.

3. Ear Infections (Otitis Media):

   • Symptoms: Ear pain, tugging or pulling at the ear, fussiness, fever, difficulty sleeping.
   • When to Consult a Pediatrician: If you suspect an ear infection or your child displays persistent ear pain, fever over 102°F (38.9°C), or if there is drainage from the ear, consult a pediatrician.
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4. Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu):

   • Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, dehydration.
   • When to Consult a Pediatrician: Contact a pediatrician if your child is unable to keep fluids down, shows signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dark urine, sunken eyes), has severe abdominal pain, or if symptoms persist for more than a few days.

5. Bronchiolitis or Croup:

   • Symptoms: Bronchiolitis often starts with cold-like symptoms and progresses to wheezing, rapid breathing, and difficulty breathing. Croup typically causes a barking cough, hoarseness, and noisy breathing.
   • When to Consult a Pediatrician: Consult a pediatrician if your child has difficulty breathing, wheezing, persistent high fever, or if they appear very ill. Seek immediate medical attention if breathing difficulties worsen rapidly.

It’s important to remember that every child is unique, and the severity of illness can vary. When in doubt or if you are concerned about your child’s health, it’s advisable to contact your pediatrician. Additionally, for infants under 2 months old, any signs of illness should prompt immediate consultation with a healthcare professional due to their vulnerability to infections. Regular well-child check-ups with a pediatrician are also essential for monitoring your child’s growth and development and for addressing any health concerns.