The pediatric team at Pediatric Associates of Denham Springs is here for you for your routine visits as well as sick visits in Denham Springs, LA. As a parent, it is confusing to know when a call to the pediatrician is necessary, or whether your child is sick enough to require a visit. Some symptoms are more serious than others.
Fever
Children run a fever because of many things and not all of them are serious. It depends on the age of your child, how much fever they have, as well as any other symptoms. Babies can run a fever when they are teething and this is not a critical condition, but an unexplained fever is worrisome, so look for other indications of the cause. If your child is under three months old, call about any rectal fever over 100.4. For those older than three months, 102.2.
Stiff Neck
A stiff neck is a symptom that, on its own, can just mean that your child slept in an awkward position. Place a warm cloth on the neck to reduce the pain and stiffness. If it is combined with other things such as a fever or cold symptoms, you should call your pediatrician because it could be more severe.
Headache
Headaches come from many sources. Make sure your child is hydrated, eats regularly, isn't straining to look at things, and gets enough sleep. If the headaches are severe or frequent, you should make an appointment to get in to see your pediatrician if they are not responding to OTC medication.
Rash
If your child develops a rash, the first thing to do is to go back to the previous day. Was there some type of different food or outdoor exposure to potential poisons like poison ivy? Have you used a new detergent or product in the home? If your child has swollen lips, difficulty breathing, vomiting, or diarrhea, call your pediatrician immediately.
Contact Pediatric Associates in Denham Springs when you need to visit a pediatrician for sick visits in Denham Springs, LA. You can reach us at (225) 665-6677 for an appointment.