Mommy Emergency

Do you know when to call the doctor or when to rush to the ER? LOREN STOW has the right advice for moms who need a little reassurance

Falling ill is an inevitable part of life, and babies and toddlers are particularly susceptible to catching bugs, not to mention knocks and falls due to over-eager explorations. It can be hair-raising and just plain overwhelming at times if you are a parent. Are you ever unsure if your child needs medical intervention, or if you can handle your child’s condition at home? Well read on, because we’ve got this covered.

WHEN TO CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR

You shouldn’t be concerned when your otherwise healthy child falls ill, but sometimes it is best to contact a doctor for medical advice. Never ignore the following symptoms, but you can usually wait for a call-back or a regular next-day doctor’s appointment if your baby:

Refuses several feeds in a row or eats very poorly.

Has a change in mood or energy, and is very lethargic and difficult to rouse from sleep.

Umbilical cord or penis becomes red or starts to ooze or bleed.

Develops a fever: