How to Know When Your Child Needs a Doctor

With germs, viruses, allergies, and rashes in abundance today, it can be difficult to decide whether or not your child needs to be treated by a doctor. Here's a general guideline to help you decide.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Thermometer

1. A child should see the doctor if vomiting is painful, is repeated, or lasts more than 48 hours.
2. Take your child to the doctor if diarrhea occurs every hour for 8 hours with a fever of over 100 degrees or if there is blood in the stool.
3. Always call the doctor if the child has trouble breathing or has chest pain.
4. Consult a doctor if your child has an earache with severe or persistent pain.
5. A child with a persistent rash should see a doctor.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are in doubt, call your local health department.