As your child’s caregiver, It can be tough to know when to head to the doctor when they aren’t feeling their best, or they’ve had an accident. It’s typical for kids to get a fever, cough, cut, sprain, or bruising, and it’s easy to wonder if a trip to the doctor is really necessary. In this article, we’ll break down those worries and help you navigate common childhood illnesses and injuries.
Below we will break down some of the more common illnesses and injuries that often require medical care, provide tips on preventing childhood injuries, and share expert advice on how to manage illness and injury at home.
Common Illnesses and Injuries in Kids: Knowing the Red Flags
Parents encounter a wide range of illnesses and injuries as their children grow. While some situations can be managed at home with rest and care, others require professional medical attention. Recognizing the warning signs of serious illness or injury is essential in ensuring your child receives timely care.
Here are a few of the most common pediatric injuries and illnesses that may require a trip to the doctor.
Fever
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, fever is considered an abnormal body temperature. A child’s normal temperature can vary, depending on age and activity level. Time of day can also affect the reading. Body temperature is highest in the late afternoon and early evening, for example, and lowest at night and early morning. Generally, these are considered true fevers:
Your child has a true fever when the temperature is 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Ear temperatures are not accurate under 6 months of age. Forehead temperatures with digital strips are not accurate.
When to see a doctor:
- Any fever for a newborn under two months needs immediate medical attention.
- Infants older than two months with a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) need to see a doctor.
- For children older than 6 months, most fevers can be treated at home unless the child is uncomfortable. A persistent fever above 102°F (38.9°C) that lasts more than 48 hours may indicate a more serious illness. Consult your healthcare provider or seek a same-day appointment for a fever that lasted more than a few days.
- When evaluating whether or not a fever needs more attention, it is important to look at other symptoms. Is your child alert? Are they having breathing problems? Are they able to take in fluids? If these things are not true, consult your healthcare provider for more advice.
Head Injuries
- Falls and head bumps are common in active kids. But, if they experience anything more than a mild bump, you should call your physician.
- If your child loses consciousness, experiences repeated vomiting, is dizzy, or seems unusually sleepy after a head injury, visit the emergency room immediately. These could be signs of a traumatic injury that needs urgent evaluation and treatment.
- Head wounds can cause a lot of bleeding. Seek medical care if bleeding doesn’t stop after applying direct pressure for 15 minutes, if the cut is gaping open, or you suspect a more serious injury.
- After a head injury there can be many signs of post traumatic brain injury where they should see a doctor. Learn more about the symptoms of TBI.
Playground and School Sports Injuries
- Even with safe playground equipment, kids can take a fall. Common sprains and bruising can be treated at home. But, if your child complains of acute pain, typically in the wrist, arm, shoulder, or ankle, see a physician for a comprehensive examination for potential fracture. Other internal injuries may be harder at first to spot.
- With school sports in full swing, injuries on the field or court become more frequent. Sprains, fractures, and concussions are common during fall sports like football, soccer, and basketball.
- If your child experiences a significant sports-related injury, visit an urgent care clinic or seek an injury visit at a healthcare provider’s office for a proper evaluation. If the injury is severe, a trip to the emergency room may be necessary.
- Internal injuries from blunt force may be more difficult to spot right away, but can be critical. Read more about how to spot symptoms of internal injury and when to seek care.
Respiratory Distress | Breathing Issues
Your child’s medical history is important in determining a potential cause for respiratory distress. Do they have a history of asthma, or recent flu or COVID? Could this be a recent viral infection or more serious condition? In most cases, when your child is struggling to breathe, they need immediate medical attention, and in some cases, it is a life-threatening emergency.
- Breathing problems like wheezing, shortness of breath, or rapid breathing are red flags that require a call to your doctor.
- Nasal flaring, belly breathing or your child can’t speak in full sentences, signals moderate to severe respiratory distress. Contact your health care provider immediately for these symptoms. Seek emergency care if you notice a fast heart rate or blue skin or gasping for air.
- Conditions such as severe asthma attacks or severe allergic reactions need critical care at the emergency room.
Digestive | Tummy Issues
There are many reasons kids can have troubles with their tummy. Vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain is a common reason people seek urgent care.
- Digestive concerns can be a result of virus, bacteria, or fungus. It can also occur from food allergies and sensitivities, or even food poisoning.
- Many gastrointestinal illnesses will pass fairly quickly. Treat vomiting with small amounts of clear liquids and monitor your child’s symptoms. If they are unable to keep any fluids down over 24 hours, have decreased urination, or decreased alertness, contact your medical provider.
- Vomiting with blood or green bile needs immediate medical attention.
- Vomiting and or diarrhea with severe abdominal pain should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
- Diarrhea is common with intestinal infections, but if it persists longer than 5-7 days or if there is blood in the stool, your child needs further evaluation.
- In some cases a bowel obstruction can cause serious digestive concerns that need immediate medical care.
Skin Conditions
Uncomfortable conditions of the skin can need urgent treatment if they lead to infection or point to an underlying illness. Contact your healthcare provider for guidance related to these types of skin conditions.
- Severe poison ivy reaction
- Hives
- Rash from unknown case
- Chickenpox
- Impetigo
- Open sore that appears infected and not healing
Persistent Symptoms of Illness
- If your child has symptoms that don’t seem to improve after a few days—such as a cough that lasts over a week, vomiting that doesn’t stop, or diarrhea that persists—consult a pediatric specialist or your child’s primary care provider. They can recommend a treatment plan based on your child’s specific health condition.
By recognizing these key red flags, you can ensure your child receives the right level of care, whether that’s at home, in urgent care, or in the emergency department. Always trust your instincts—if something seems off, seeking professional medical information from an advice nurse or doctor’s office can provide the peace of mind you need.
Preventing Childhood Injuries: Expert Tips for Parents
While it’s impossible to prevent every scrape or bump, taking steps to minimize the risk of injury can help keep your child safe during their day-to-day activities. Whether at home, on the playground, or during sports, following these injury prevention tips can reduce the chances of a more serious injury requiring medical care.
Here’s how you can help prevent common childhood injuries:
Use of Safety Gear
- Always ensure your child is wearing proper safety equipment during activities like biking, skating, or other sports. Helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads are essential for reducing the risk of traumatic injuries.
Supervision During Playtime
- Find a balance between hovering and keeping a close eye on younger children during play to provide a safe experience while they are exploring their limits. And put the phone away while at the playground to keep the focus on the little ones.
- For older children, ensure they understand the boundaries and rules of safe play to prevent injuries from getting out of hand.
Sports Safety
- Kids are naturally active, but organized sports come with their own risks.
- Hydration is key, especially during strenuous activities. Make sure your child stays hydrated by drinking water or a sports drink before, during, and after play.
- For sports, make sure they use the appropriate gear like shin guards, mouthguards, and the right footwear.
- Also, teaching proper warm-up and cool-down routines can prevent strains or sprains that might require a visit to your provider or urgent care.
Home Proofing
- Childproofing your home is an essential step to prevent injury.
- Use safety gates for staircases, cover sharp furniture edges, and secure heavy furniture to the walls to prevent tipping.
- In the kitchen, keep hazardous items like knives and cleaning supplies out of reach.
Seasonal Precautions
- With the arrival of fall, children return to school and sports, which often leads to an increase in injuries. Revisit playground and sports safety guidelines at the start of every year.
- Ice and snow are inevitable for some parts of the country, and appropriate footwear, gloves and warm clothing are essential to prevent slips and falls, hypothermia, and frostbite.
By proactively preventing injuries, you reduce the likelihood of needing to rush to the emergency department or schedule an injury visit. These small steps ensure your child can stay safe while still enjoying the activities they love.
Fall Season Health Concerns: Illness in School-Age Children
The fall season brings cooler weather, the start of a new school year, and a variety of health concerns for children. It’s essential to be prepared for the common health challenges that can arise from going back to school.
Here’s what you should watch for during the fall months:
Flu Season Preparation
- As fall begins, flu season ramps up. The best way to protect your child from the flu is by getting them their flu vaccination or flu shot.
- Immunization for COVID is now available along with flu shots.
- Vaccinating early in the season helps reduce the risk of serious illness and keeps your child healthy through the winter.
- Be sure to consult your healthcare provider or a walk-in clinic for vaccination appointments.
Allergies and Asthma
- Fall also brings seasonal allergies and asthma flare-ups. Pollen, mold, and even school dust can trigger symptoms in children.
- If your child has asthma or severe allergies, monitor their symptoms closely, especially during outdoor activities. Make sure you are following their treatment plan and using any preventative meds as prescribed. You may need to visit a healthcare provider or pediatric specialist if symptoms worsen or become unmanageable.
School-Related Infections
- Close contact with other children increases the risk of viral and bacterial infections such as colds, strep throat, and even pink eye.
- While many of these can be treated at home with rest and fluids, some may require a same-day appointment or a visit to urgent care if symptoms persist.
By preparing for these fall health concerns, you can keep your child safe and healthy during one of the busiest times of the year. If you’re ever unsure about an illness or injury, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician, visit an urgent care clinic, or speak to an advice nurse for medical information.
Managing Illness and Injury at Home: Practical Tips from Pediatric Experts
When it comes to managing minor illnesses and injuries, there are several steps parents can take at home to help their child recover quickly. Knowing when and how to care for your child at home versus when to seek professional medical care is key to avoiding unnecessary stress. Here are expert tips to help guide you through managing common issues at home. But, if you have any concern at all about managing your child’s illness, consult your pediatrician.
Home Remedies for Minor Illnesses
- For mild fevers, colds, and sore throats, rest and hydration are essential. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water or a sports drink to stay hydrated, especially if they have a fever.
- Over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate discomfort, but always consult your healthcare provider about proper dosages. Never give aspirin to a child as a remedy as it can seriously harm their health.
- A humidifier can also help with coughs and congestion by adding moisture to the air, making it easier for your child to breathe.
- Mentholated vapor rub can be a relief for children over two years and help ease a stuffy nose and calm a congested cough. Its anti-inflammatory effects are also good for itchy bug bites and minor sores.
Hydration and Rest
- Rest is crucial for recovery, whether your child is dealing with an illness or a minor injury. Ensure they get plenty of sleep and keep them well-hydrated throughout the day.
- For illnesses involving fever or vomiting, dehydration can be a serious concern. Encourage small, frequent sips of fluids, and consider an electrolyte-based sports drink if your child is dehydrated.
- Clear and warm chicken broth provides both a comfort food experience and needed nutrition with immune boosting properties to speed along wellness.
Call an Advice Nurse or Seek a Same-Day Appointment
- While many conditions can be managed at home, it’s important to recognize when you need professional guidance. If your child’s symptoms worsen or don’t improve after a few days, calling your pediatric advice nurse can provide helpful medical information.
- In some cases, a same-day appointment with your healthcare provider may be necessary if you’re unsure about symptoms or need a quick evaluation.
By following these expert tips, you can manage many illnesses and injuries at home while knowing when to seek professional medical care. Always trust your instincts as a parent—if something doesn’t feel right, it’s better to call your healthcare provider for peace of mind.
The Benefits of Metro Pediatrics’ Compassionate Care
At Metro Pediatrics, we offer comprehensive care services tailored to your child’s needs. From same-day appointments to injury visits and expert guidance from pediatric specialists, we provide compassionate care that ensures your child receives the best treatment possible.
Whether you’re dealing with an unexpected illness, a sports-related injury, or seeking preventative advice, our team is dedicated to offering prompt and reliable medical care.
With services like flu shots, immediate care options, and access to 24/7 nurse advice, we make it easy for you to manage your child’s health.
Book an appointment today to get started.
