As a parent, you are going to be very sensitive to any sudden changes in your child’s health or behavior. This is particularly the case with newborn babies. The good news is that a lot of the time these are common issues and can be easily treated at home. However, some symptoms can be serious, so it is important to know when to call your pediatrician. Whatever the problem, your pediatrician will offer you expert help and reassurance.
High Fever
A fever is not necessarily cause for panic, but if your child has a high fever, it is worth getting it checked out. If your baby is crying, vomiting or has diarrhea, then you should call your pediatrician immediately.
Fever in newborns is a reason for concern. At this stage, your child’s immune system will need the support of your pediatrician.
Unexplained Changes in Eating Habits
Feeding time can be very stressful, with your baby constantly changing their mind about what they like and don’t like. Finding the right diet can be tricky, which can lead to some digestion problems such as too much gas. This is very normal and all part of growing up. However, if your baby refuses to eat across numerous meal times, that could be a sign of a more serious problem.
You should call if this change in eating habits is combined with any other symptoms such as crying, vomiting or irritability.
Skin Rash
Rashes are very common in babies and often clear up with over-the-counter medicines.
In all cases, it is important to monitor your child’s reaction to the rash. If your baby feels weak or feels pain then you should give your pediatrician a call. Also, if the rash doesn’t respond to treatment at home, the rash might be a sign of a more serious ailment.
Abdominal Pain
Tummy pain can just be a growing pain or in response to a change in diet. Little ones are prone to gas problems as they grow and this can cause distension in the abdomen.
But, if your baby has persistent pain in the stomach and abdomen, you should call your pediatrician. This is especially true if the pain is combined with a fever and vomiting, as this can be a sign of appendicitis.
Prolonged Swelling After a Trip or Bump
Young ones are inquisitive, but this sometimes leads to trips and falls. Most of the time, after the initial tears, they will dust themselves off and carry on with whatever they’re doing.
In general, if your child is still nursing the injury the next day, then it is worth calling. Your pediatrician will advise you on the best course of action and if further investigation is required.
Better Safe Than Sorry
With so much information around, it is sometimes difficult to know when you should call your pediatrician. In many cases, you can monitor your child’s health and the problem will resolve itself in a day to two. If your child is not responding to home remedies, then call immediately. Even if the problem only turns out to be minor growing pains, it is far better to be safe than sorry.
