When we become parents, the well-being of our children becomes one of our top priorities. When they are afflicted with an extreme illness, our concern increases because seeing our children suffer brings a feeling of helplessness unlike any other.
Because of this, the first sign of something abnormal makes us jump to see an expert or find a way to cure the illness before it escalates beyond our control. However, even with the all-seeing eye of a parent, we can sometimes overlook the dangerous symptoms of disease.
Here are some of those dangerous symptoms that should never be ignored:
1. High fever
In the case of a baby up to three months old, a temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit and above should be immediately checked out. For a baby that is three to six months old, a high fever is considered to be anything above 101 degrees. After that, a high fever for your child is usually about 103 degrees Fahrenheit.
Remember that the level shown on the thermometer is not the only important thing to consider when diagnosing an problem. If the fever is still low, but the child is very unwell, contact your pediatrician.
2. Long-term fever
If, after four hours of using antipyretic drugs, the fever has still not lowered, or if an untreated fever (high or low) has lasted for more than five days, seek medical help as soon as possible.
3. Fever associated with headache
Be very wary of complaints of neck pain, a stiff neck or headaches associated with fever, as these symptoms can often be associated with meningitis.
4. Red spots on the skin
Allergic reaction to a number of diseases such symptom needs to be examined so appropriate treatment can be initiated. If you notice any spots, consult a pediatrician.
5. Irregular penis
Ideally you should be having monthly checks of his little body to detect spots that may be irregular with jagged edges or growing. If you find something like this, seek medical advice.
6. Sudden stomach pain
If your little one is complaining about pain around the navel, or on the right side of the abdomen, take a trip to the pediatrician, especially if these complaints are associated with other symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. This can be a sign of appendicitis, a condition that progresses rapidly unless diagnosed quickly.
7. Headache with vomiting
Migraines are not uncommon in children, but these symptoms need to be examined more carefully.
8. Decreased urine
This symptom is often associated with a dry mouth, pale skin, vomiting or diarrhea and can be a sign of dehydration. If you notice paleness and listlessness, call 911 or find the nearest hospital.
9. Blue Lips
This signal may be associated with difficulty breathing. You may notice that your little one is breathless or wheezing as they breathe. This could be a respiratory problem caused by an allergic reaction or even an asthma attack. In this case, look for the nearest medical help.
10. Swelling of the face, tongue or lips
These are characteristic signs of a strong allergic reaction. Contact your doctor to see if the symptoms require medical attention and quickly take your child to the emergency room.
11. Vomiting after fall
Especially when it comes to a baby, this may be a neurological emergency. If your child has this symptom, do not delay; go to the doctor immediately.
12. Excessive bleeding
If your child has a cut and the bleeding does not stop even after several minutes of pressure, take the little one to your pediatrician so the correct sterilization and treatment may be administered.
It is important to take immediate action if you notice your child suffering one or more of these symptoms. Even if it turns out that it is nothing serious, it is better to be safe than sorry. If, even after a visit to the doctor, the situation worsens or the symptoms do not go away, consult a second opinion.
This article is a translation and adaption of the original article "12 sintomas perigosos nas crianças que você jamais deve ignorar" published on familia.com.br.