Caring for a Sick Child: When To Call the Pediatrician

Caring for a Sick Child: When to Call the Pediatrician

It can be a distressing experience anytime your child is sick, and you know it will happen eventually. In fact, children tend to get sick more often than adults, so it's important to know what to do when the day comes, and it's just as important to know when to call your Rancho Mirage, CA, pediatrician, Dr. Art Quintanilla of Rancho Mirage Pediatrics.

Keep Them Comfortable

If your child is sick make sure that they're eating, even if they may not have much of an appetite. So stick to foods that are simple to digest and that their body will tolerate. Don't forget about fluids, making sure also to keep them hydrated.

Rest Is Important

While you want to check in on them often, let them sleep as much as they need to. They will require more rest than normal while they're sick and their symptoms can keep them awake at night, further interrupting their sleep cycle. Sleep helps them recover and heal so it's okay to let them have as much of it as they can, even if they have a fever you can let them sleep a while longer if they're comfortable.

Medication

If your child is struggling with a fever or similar symptoms don't hesitate to provide them the medicine they need to feel better. Over-the-counter medication can provide them relief but it will not get rid of the fever, so it's important to know when to call your pediatrician.

When to Call

Medication to reduce a fever is generally safe but if symptoms persist don't continue its use without first calling your child's pediatrician. It's also a good idea to call if your child has a high fever, abdominal pain, trouble swallowing, vomiting, diarrhea, or a widespread rash, among other symptoms.

Pediatrician in Rancho Mirage, CA

You can dial (760) 770-0000 to schedule a visit with our Rancho Mirage, CA, pediatrician, Dr. Quintanilla of Rancho Mirage Pediatrics.