When you definitely need to go to the doctor with your cold or sick child!

Table of contents

• Fever
• Atemprobleme
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Pains
• Rashes
• Behavior change
• Parental gut feeling

Coughs, colds and hoarseness are currently in high season again. There are sneezes and sniffles on every corner and as parents you are actually just waiting for the offspring to hatch something. In the cold season, it is not uncommon for a child to have barely recovered from a cold before they are attacked by a new virus.

Not every sneeze, cough or runny nose requires medical attention. Especially not when the kids have outgrown their toddler shoes and already have a well-functioning immune system. And yet there are those moments when you ask yourself whether it would be better to call your pediatrician.

That's why we have listed here, in black and white, the most important signs that clearly show you that a visit to the pediatrician is necessary.

Fever

is a natural reaction of the body to infections. It signals that the immune system is active. But not every fever requires immediate medical attention. In general:

• Infants under 3 monthsIf you have a fever over 38 °C, you should see a doctor immediately.
• or fever that lasts longer than three days, this is a reason to seek medical advice. Also pay attention to how your child reacts to the fever: Is he or she lethargic or showing unusual behavior? Even then you should see a doctor.
• Does your child have a persistent fever or elevated temperature?other symptomssuch as headache, cough, diarrhea or vomiting, you should also seek medical advice.

Atemprobleme

Breathing problems are always a cause for concern. If your child has wheezing noises, is breathing faster than usual, or is even having difficulty taking a breath, you should consult a doctor immediately. Shortness of breath can quickly become threatening, especially in small children.

• Watch out for additional symptoms:If your child also has a cough that suddenly worsens, or if it is accompanied by a bluish tint to the lips or skin, immediate medical attention is needed.

Vomiting and diarrhea

Vomiting and diarrhea are common side effects of infections. While occasional vomiting or diarrhea is nothing to worry about, persistent symptoms can become dangerous.

• If your child vomits persistentlyor has persistent diarrhea for a long time, you are at risk of dehydration. Pay attention to how much fluid your child drinks. Signs of dehydration include dry lips, little urine, or increased tiredness.

Pains

Pain is often a clear signal that something is wrong. Parents should be particularly vigilant when it comes to stomach pain.

• Starke, lasting more than a few hours or accompanied by vomiting should be taken seriously. These could, for example, indicate appendicitis or other serious illnesses.
• Headachecan be harmless, but if they are accompanied by fever or neurological symptoms such as vision problems, a visit to the doctor is essential.
• are also not uncommon with a cold. If these do not subside during the day and cause difficulty swallowing, you should have a doctor take a look.

Rashes

A sudden rash can be alarming for parents. While many skin rashes are harmless, in some cases they can indicate a medical condition.

• If the rash is accompanied by feveror your child has difficulty moving, you should see a doctor.

Behavior change

Parents often have a good sense of their children's well-being. If your child appears listless, sluggish and apathetic, no longer moves as usual or is unusually irritable, this is also a warning sign.

• Pay attention to how your child reacts to an illness.If he has difficulty staying awake, seems distracted, or is extremely restless, this may be a sign of a more serious condition.

Parental gut feeling

Deciding when to take your child to the doctor is often not easy. Trust your gut feeling. If you are unsure, it is always better to see a doctor.

Your child's health should always come first. Find out about the most common symptoms and stay alert - so you are well prepared if your child gets sick.

Remember that preventive measures and a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of illness. Make sure your child gets enough sleep, eats healthily and gets regular exercise in the fresh air.

Important NOTE:The information in this article does not replace a visit to the doctor. If symptoms persist or you are unsure, you should ask your pediatrician for advice.

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