Mums and dads, especially new parents, are often overwhelmed by the arrival of their bundle of joy. Panic sometimes sets in. So when should you seek medical advice if  you think your little one is in distress/discomfort?

It’s a question ECR Life put to Tori Westley*, registered midwife and nurse. This is her advice:

A common question I’m frequently asked is “When should I call the doctor?” I do hope that this guide helps you but please bear in mind that the responsibility lies with you. If you are ever in doubt or worried then trust your instincts and call! Remember to have a pen and paper available to write down any instructions your Doctor may give you.

Call your doctor immediately if your baby or child has:
•    Blood in the urine (wee)
•    Bloody diarrhoea or diarrhoea that won’t stop
•    Signs of dehydration, namely:-dry skin and mouth, dry nappies, concentrated dark yellow urine, tearless crying, sunken fontanel (soft spot on baby’s head), sunken eyes
•    Been burnt
•    Any bleeding that cannot be stopped
•    High temperature that does not come down within an hour. (I.e. more than 39C) and will not come down despite you giving a fever reducing medicine and a cool bath (tepid sponge).
•    A knock on the head that causes vomiting or child to be unconscious
•    A fit or convulsion
•    Any poisoning
•    Any trouble with breathing
•    Any continuous crying or moaning
•    Sudden lack of energy

Call your Doctor within a day if:
•    Any fever in a baby younger than 4 months or a temperature that lasts for more that 48-72 hours
•    A cough has lasted for more than two weeks
•    Vomiting or diarrhoea lasts for more than a day
•    A cold that does not get better in one to two weeks
•    Any earache
•    Any limping or not able to move an arm or leg
•    Any abdominal (stomach) pain
•    A sore throat or problems with swallowing

Call your Doctor within a week if your child:
•    Has decreased appetite and is generally not himself/herself
•    Has unexplained episodes of constipation or diarrhoea
•    Complains of mild pain
•    Has any sign of allergy (e.g.: Excema, snuffy nose)
•    Is losing weight or not gaining weight well
•    Seems to have problems hearing you
•    Or anything that you feel is of concern

Questions your Doctor might ask you:
•    When did the symptoms start? Does anything make them better or worse?
•    Have you given any form of treatment and if so what?
•    Have you been in contact with any other sick people and if so when?
•    What is the baby’s temperature?
•    What are the stools and urine like?
•    What is the child’s behaviour?
•    What is the breathing like? (e.g.: rate and pattern)
•    What is the child drinking or eating?
•    Is the child in pain?
•    Is there any weakness or stiffness of the neck?
•    Does the child have a rash? What does it look like?

Please remember if your child has any symptoms that are not on the above list, it doesn’t mean that you should not call the doctor if you feel there is a need. Trust your instincts!

If you have a question for Tori email it through to life@ecr.co.za

*Tori Westley is a registered nurse and midwife. She runs the Baby Wise Clinic in Kloof and can be contacted on 031 767 3316