WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION FOR YOUR SICK BABY?

It is often a difficult choice for mothers to make whether to care for the sick baby at home or to seek medical help. When is the right time for a parent to make this important call?  Sometimes, what seems like a minor ailment can turn into a  major health complication, when left untreated without any proper medical attention. You need not fret for every little thing.  Nevertheless, whenever you are in doubt, do not hesitate to take medical guidance as the right professional help can safeguard your precious little one from serious illnesses and severe infections. 

In this feature, let us understand the various aspects of seeking medical attention at the right time when your baby falls sick. 

High temperature: One of the most important red flags of  0 warning would be fever with a temperature higher than 102 F.  It is always better not to delay, especially when you observe that the temperature doesn't drop even after a day.  

Diarrhoea and vomiting: Look out for severe loose motions and vomiting, sometimes with the presence of blood. Irrespective of using quick home remedies, this condition requires immediate medical attention. 

Breathing issues: If you observe rapid and heavy breathing in your baby, this could often be connected with lungs and chest congestion. Please do not take this easily as the regular flow of oxygen is very important for your baby's well-being.

Urinary issues: If your baby has difficulty urinating or passing stool, this could be because of a urinary infection. This can be quite uncomfortable and painful for the baby causing much agony to the parents as well. Timely medical intervention can help resolve the problem. 

Vaccinations: As discussed in our earlier article on the importance of immunization, please follow the vaccination schedule for various diseases such as flu, hepatitis, polio, etc. This will help you prevent a whole lot of diseases and improve your baby's immunity to counter any infections in the future. 

Eye problems: If you observe discharge in your baby's eyes which could be caused due to irritants such as baby products or some allergic substances, then please consult the doctor immediately. Some of the signs to catch are swelling of the eyelids, watery eyes, etc. In such cases, please don't be tempted to line your kid's eyes with kohl or kajal. Keep them natural as such beauty enhancers can irritate your baby's eyes. 

Other health-related issues: In cases of persistent sore throat,  severe headache, or pain in the stomach area which are commonly occurring symptoms along with fever, please seek medical advice. 

Dullness and inactivity: If you observe that your child is not at his/her playful self and exhibits dull and inactive behaviour persistently, then please speak to your doctor. Though the child might not experience overwhelming health issues, sometimes this can be linked to his/her overall well-being and any medical conditions in disguise. 

We understand that caring for a sick baby can take an emotional toll on the parent. However, with the right kind of medical attention, you can help your baby regain health and happiness.  Please understand that these symptoms or signs may not appear very scary but a little delay on your side can cause a  major impact. Our message would be: Don't worry too much but at the same time, don't take your baby's health lightly. 

For more information on this topic, talk to our experts.