When Should I Call the Pediatrician for My Sick Toddler?

Knowing when is the right time to call your pediatrician for a sick toddler is something that many parents struggle with. You don't want your pediatrician to think you are overprotective, but you also don't want your child to suffer if they need a visit. Dr. Jeff Couchman, Dr. Susan McMahon, and Dr. Nicole Abdy of Mesquite Pediatrics in Tucson, AZ are here when you need them for your child's well visits but also for sick visits.

The rule for when to call the pediatrician's office is not hard and fast. As the parent you know your child best and when you are concerned that they are sick it is not wrong to call the doctor or send a portal message. If your pediatrician's office makes you feel like it is a nuisance when you call, look for a new doctor.

The basic rule for a toddler is that the normal rectal temperature is up to 100.3 and if it is over that it is a fever. A fever in itself is not a condition, it is a signal that the body is fighting an illness or infection. You can treat a fever at home but if it doesn't respond within 48 hours you should consider contacting your pediatrician for a sick visit.

When To Call

There are some things that when combined with a fever are reasons to call your pediatrician. They include:

• A stiff neck
• Severe ear pain
• Drowsiness
• Bad headache
• Sore throat
• A rash
• Repeated vomiting
• Frequent diarrhea
• A seizure
• Dehydration

In addition, if anyone in the family has had flu, it is important to be seen by the doctor as quickly as possible so that antiviral treatments can be considered.  Keep in mind that your toddler may get sick and not run a fever. If your toddler has a persistent cough, has labored breathing, or has eyes that are stuck with heavy discharge a visit to the doctor is recommended.

Your toddler may not be completely able to articulate to you what exactly is bothering them, and it never hurts to err on the side of caution.

Contact Us Today

Contact Dr. Couchman, Dr. McMahon, and Dr. Abdy of Mesquite Pediatrics in Tucson, AZ when you need a sick visit for your toddler. Give the office a call today at (520) 648-5437.