When you’re worried about your child, it’s okay to call.

Every parent has wondered, “Is this something I should call the doctor about?”

Sometimes your child is clearly sick. Other times, something simply doesn’t seem right. You know your child, and if you are concerned about a change in their health, behavior or symptoms, our Pediatrics team is here to help.

Calling your child’s healthcare provider can help you understand their symptoms and determine what kind of care they may need.

Call Your Child’s Healthcare Provider If…

Contact your child’s healthcare provider if your child:

• Seems unusually sleepy, irritable, fussy or less active than normal

• Looks or acts very sick

• Is getting worse instead of better

• Has significant ear, throat or other pain

• Has repeated vomiting or diarrhea

• Is not drinking normally

• Shows signs of dehydration, such as significantly fewer wet diapers or trips to the bathroom, a very dry mouth or no tears when crying

• Develops an unexplained rash

• Has symptoms that concern you or simply doesn’t seem like themselves

If your child has an ongoing medical condition or a weakened immune system, contact their healthcare provider for guidance about when they should be evaluated.

What About a Fever?

A fever is often the body’s response to an infection. The number on the thermometer is important, but your child’s age, other symptoms and how they are acting matter too.

Babies Younger Than 3 Months

If your baby is younger than 3 months and has a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, contact your healthcare provider immediately, even if your baby otherwise seems well.

Older Babies and Children

Contact your healthcare provider if your child has a fever and:

• Looks very ill or is unusually sleepy or irritable

• Has difficulty breathing

• Has a stiff neck or severe headache

• Has an unexplained rash

• Has repeated vomiting or diarrhea

• Shows signs of dehydration

• Has had a seizure

• Seems to be getting worse

• Has a fever that continues longer than expected

If you are unsure whether your child’s fever requires medical attention, call us. Your healthcare team can help determine the appropriate next step.

When Does My Child Need Immediate Medical Attention?

Some symptoms should not wait for a routine appointment.

Seek immediate medical attention if your child has symptoms such as:

• Difficulty or unusually fast breathing

• Ribs pulling in with each breath

• Blue or gray lips or face

• Severe dehydration or inability to drink

• A seizure

• A stiff neck with significant illness

• Extreme sleepiness or difficulty waking

• Confusion or unusual lack of responsiveness

• Symptoms that are rapidly becoming worse

This is not a complete list. If your child has severe or concerning symptoms, seek medical care.

When Should I Call 911?

Call 911 immediately if you believe your child is experiencing a life-threatening emergency.

Examples include severe difficulty breathing, being unresponsive or unable to wake, or another condition that you believe requires immediate emergency care.

Do not delay emergency care while waiting for a call back from your healthcare provider.

You Don’t Have to Make the Decision Alone

Parenting comes with plenty of uncertainty, especially when your child is sick.

If something doesn’t seem right or you aren’t sure what to do next, call us first. Our healthcare team can help you determine the appropriate next step for your child.