Kids are usually full of energy — all they seem to want to do is run around and play non-stop. There are times, though, when they are less active than normal, causing their parents to worry.
It’s important to note that kids are more vulnerable to illness because their immune systems are less developed than adults’, as family doctor Nikola Djordjevic, M.D. tells Romper. Thus, it is good for parents to know what signs indicate that their little ones might be getting sick.
5 signs that your child might be ill
He has a high fever
Fevers are normally not something to worry about; they mean that your child’s body is fighting off infections, pediatrician Scott Goldstein, M.D. tells Today. However, if your child’s fever is very high — greater than 100° F or 37.8° C — then it might be time to see your doctor.
Andrew Adesman, M.D., chief of developmental and behavioral pediatrics at the Steven & Alexandra Children’s Medical Center in New York, USA, also tells Today that infants who have a temperature of more than 100.4° F or 38° C should be taken to the doctor immediately. “Because they are more vulnerable to infection, fevers in children this age are always potentially serious.”
He’s unusually tired
Kids are usually very energetic, but if your little one seems “off” — like if he suddenly doesn’t want to do anything, even his favorite activities — then his immune system might be fighting off an infection, says Dr. Djordjevic. Other symptoms might include listlessness (lethargy) or irritability when disturbed.
ADVERTISEMENT - CONTINUE READING BELOWHe’s lost his appetite
Though it can be worrying to see your child refuse to eat even his favorite dishes or snacks, Riley’s Children Health reminds parents that there are many possible causes of a decreased appetite in children, and illness is only one of them. In some cases, a change in appetite might signal something serious, particularly if your child also has symptoms such as weight loss or poor weight gain and a decrease in energy.
He has a rash
Do you notice a rash or redness developing on your child’s skin? According to The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, symptoms that a child with a virus may exhibit include rashes that turn white for a few seconds when you push on them with a finger. If your child’s rash persists for more than a week, rapidly spreads, or hurts him, see your doctor immediately.
He experiences tummy problems
Dr. Djordjevic tells Romper that issues with your child’s immune system can mess with his stomach, causing cramps or even diarrhea. According to the University of Michigan, stomach pain in children may be caused by an upset stomach, infections, or a strep throat. Constipation is another common cause of abdominal pain. How do you know you need to seek medical attention? Cleveland Clinic advises parents to check how long the stomach pain lasts and if it causes other symptoms, like diarrhea and/or vomiting.
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