If your little one is feeling ill and you’re not completely sure what to do, don’t be afraid to pick up the phone. Sometimes it helps to get a second opinion to reassure your knowledge and instincts as a parent.
Here’s how to know if it’s time to call your child’s doctor:
Child is UNDER 3 months (12 weeks)
Has a temperature of 100.4°F or higher
Keep in mind that you know your child best. Always follow your instinct and call the doctor if you feel something is wrong.
Child is OVER 3 months (12 weeks)
Has a temperature of 104°F or higher
or
Has a temperature of 100.4°F or higher PLUS any of these symptoms:
Severe headache
Repeated vomiting or diarrhea
Strange rash
Sore throat or ear pain
Stiff neck
Looks very ill or is extremely drowsy/fussy
Has been in a very hot place (such as an overheated car)
Has underlying immune system problems, seizure history, or takes steroids
Child has ANY of the following
Seems to be getting worse, even with comfort measures
Is between 3 and 24 months and still has a fever (100.4°F or higher) after 24 hours
Is 24 months or older and still has a fever (100.4°F or higher) after 3 days or still “acts sick” when the fever goes away
If you do call your child’s doctor, make sure to let them know which type (Infants', Children's, etc.) and strength of medicine you're giving to your child, if any. Also inform them if your child has any underlying risk factors that could cause further complications.
Registration permits you to participate in all areas of this site. By submitting your information above, you agree that the information you provide will be governed by our site's Privacy Policy.
{* /socialRegistrationForm *}
You are Now Registered!
We will send you an email to confirm your registration.
Sign up here for more information & to save now.
When you sign up, you'll get access to personalized communications, exclusive values, useful advice, and health related tips beyond medication delivered to your inbox. Each month the site is refreshed with new content. Sign up below.
Link an existing social account:
{* loginWidget *}
Or create an account by providing the information below.
Registration permits you to participate in all areas of this site. By submitting your information above, you agree that the information you provide will be governed by our site's Privacy Policy.
Looks like you have an existing account with us. We have made some changes to our site and we need you to create a new password in order to login. Click send to recieve an email with instructions on how to create your new password.
Your first name and last initial will be displayed publicly to other users when you write a review or blog post (ex. ”John S.”).
Will be used as your user name
Registration permits you to participate in all areas of this site. By submitting your information above, you agree that the information you provide will be governed by our site's Privacy Policy.