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When your baby is sick for the first time, it can be one of the scariest things that happens to you as a new parent. Parents wonder when they need to call the doctor. Should they call the pediatrician at the first sign of a runny nose, or wait until their child has not slept in days?

The first thing all new parents need to realize is that babies get sick, just like children of any age. A sick baby does not mean you are a bad parent. In fact, getting a small cold once in a while helps your baby’s developing immune system become stronger. But any cold or sickness can develop into a difficult situation if not kept under control.

When your baby sickens, try to maintain a normal feeding schedule. There is no problem with breast feeding your sick baby. In fact, breast feeding frequently might help your baby get better faster. If you baby is older and is no longer nursing, consider increasing her fluid intake, encouraging your baby to drink water and pure fruit juices.

It is much easier to spot an emergency situation with your child.  In such cases, you should contact your doctor and/or 911 immediately.  Emergency situations are best handled by professionals, so do not try to fix the situation yourself.  There is a possibility that you could make it worse.  Along with poisoning and uncontrollable bleeding, you should also call for emergency help if you child has seizures.  Remember, it is always better to be too cautious rather than not cautious enough.

Very often a fever is the initial sign you get when you baby is sick. If the fever is above 102 in a baby, you should call the doctor. A higher fever does not mean your baby is necessarily dangerously sick, but your baby’s doctor should know, so that he can advise you on treatment. Another indication that your baby needs to be seen is a sudden, drastic change in appetite. A good rule of thumb is if your baby skips two meals in a row, they need to go to the pediatrician. 

Assessing your baby’s mood is another way to determine if they are sick enough to go to the doctor. Of course, a sick baby is not going to be her normal joyful self, but if your baby becomes completely inconsolable, call the doctor. Crying that lasts longer than three hours is a good sign that something more serious is wrong. 

Diarrhea that lasts for six or more diapers in a row is a sign of illness, and can lead to dehydration. The same goes for vomiting. it is crucial to realize the difference between your baby spitting up and vomiting. Most babies will spit up, and sometimes they spit up quite a lot of substance, but vomit will be forceful and projectile. As with diarrhea, excessive vomiting can lead to dehydration.

Above all, if you feel like something is wrong, call the doctor. Pediatricians are used to dealing with parents who do not know for sure how sick their babies are. They would prefer that you seek treatment for what turns out to be a small cold than ignore a serious illness. Keep your child’s best interests at heart, and do not be afraid to call the doctor when you suspect that something could be amiss.

To find out additional information head on over to Child Obesity In America as well as Child Obesity In America and certainly try Obesity On Youth

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