It’s natural to feel anxious late at night when your little one is feeling under the weather. The good news? Often, you can provide care at home. However, there are specific symptoms that should prompt a call to the doctor. Here are five common signs to watch for:
Every seasoned parent has experienced those sleepless nights with a sniffling, feverish child whose symptoms seem to rise unexpectedly or worsen as the hours tick by. In those tense moments, you might find yourself questioning whether to call your child’s physician, rush to the emergency room, or simply wait until morning.
Adding to the stress, you may be aware of the latest health scares. In the past, swine flu raised alarms (though if you and your child received the annual flu vaccine, you’re likely protected). More recently, concerns about viruses like Ebola and enterovirus-D68 (EV-D68) have made headlines. Fortunately, while Ebola is a serious threat, it poses little risk in the US, and while EV-D68 has been more common, it’s highly likely your child is dealing with a typical seasonal bug that their immune system can handle.
While you might not get much sleep during those early morning coughing fits, you can take comfort in knowing that the majority of symptoms are usually manageable at home. However, it’s essential to recognize when symptoms indicate a need for emergency care.
Remember, many practices offer an on-call doctor who can assist you any time of the day or night. Just keep in mind that you may not be speaking with your usual physician.
For a deeper understanding of common illnesses and how to handle them, check out our other blog post here. Also, if you’re looking for fun and healthy snacks for your kids, this site provides some great ideas. And for more information on pregnancy and home insemination, this resource is highly recommended.
In summary, while late-night illnesses can be nerve-wracking for parents, knowing the symptoms that require medical attention can help ease your mind. Most minor ailments can be treated at home, but it’s crucial to know when to seek professional help.