Children are prone to a variety of illnesses as their immune systems develop. While many conditions are mild and manageable at home, others require the expertise of a pediatrician. Understanding the difference can help parents make informed decisions about their child’s health. This guide will cover common childhood illnesses and when it’s necessary to seek professional medical care.
For trusted pediatric care, visit Siddiqui Pediatrics.
1. The Common Cold
Symptoms:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Mild cough
- Low-grade fever
When to Visit a Pediatrician:
- Symptoms persist for more than 10 days
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- High fever (above 102°F)
- Severe ear pain or persistent cough
For tips on choosing the right pediatrician, read our guide on What to Look for in a Pediatrician: A Parent’s Guide to Quality Care.
2. Ear Infections
Symptoms:
- Ear pain
- Difficulty hearing
- Fluid drainage from the ear
- Fever
- Irritability in infants
When to Visit a Pediatrician:
- Severe ear pain lasting more than a day
- Fever above 102°F
- Symptoms persist beyond three days
- Frequent ear infections (more than three in six months)
3. Strep Throat
Symptoms:
- Severe sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- Red or white patches in the throat
When to Visit a Pediatrician:
- Persistent high fever
- Difficulty swallowing
- Symptoms lasting longer than a week
- Presence of a rash (scarlet fever)
4. Flu (Influenza)
Symptoms:
- Fever
- Chills
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Cough and congestion
When to Visit a Pediatrician:
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent high fever
- Symptoms worsen after initial improvement
- Severe vomiting or dehydration
To learn more about maintaining your child’s health, check out our guide on The Importance of Well-Child Visits: A Parent’s Guide to Keeping Your Child Healthy.
5. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD)
Symptoms:
- Fever
- Painful sores in the mouth
- Rash on hands, feet, and buttocks
When to Visit a Pediatrician:
- Dehydration due to painful swallowing
- High fever lasting more than three days
- Severe pain or worsening symptoms
6. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
Symptoms:
- Coughing and wheezing
- Runny nose
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing in severe cases
When to Visit a Pediatrician:
- Severe breathing difficulties
- Blue tint around lips or fingernails
- High fever with lethargy
7. Chickenpox
Symptoms:
- Itchy rash with blisters
- Fever
- Fatigue
When to Visit a Pediatrician:
- Blisters become infected (red, swollen, or pus-filled)
- High fever lasting more than four days
- Difficulty breathing
8. Croup
Symptoms:
- Barking cough
- Hoarseness
- Stridor (high-pitched breathing sound)
When to Visit a Pediatrician:
- Difficulty breathing
- Symptoms lasting more than five days
- High fever
9. Whooping Cough (Pertussis)
Symptoms:
- Severe coughing fits
- Vomiting after coughing
- High-pitched “whooping” sound
When to Visit a Pediatrician:
- Coughing fits cause breathing difficulties
- Symptoms last longer than two weeks
10. Gastroenteritis (Stomach Flu)
Symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Dehydration symptoms
When to Visit a Pediatrician:
- Persistent vomiting and diarrhea
- Dehydration signs (dry mouth, no tears, sunken eyes)
- High fever
11. Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis)
Symptoms:
- Red, watery eyes
- Discharge from the eyes
- Swelling around the eyes
When to Visit a Pediatrician:
- Eye pain or vision changes
- Severe redness or swelling
- Symptoms persist beyond a week
12. Allergies
Symptoms:
- Sneezing, runny nose
- Itchy eyes
- Hives
When to Visit a Pediatrician:
- Severe allergic reactions (swelling, difficulty breathing)
- Persistent symptoms affecting daily activities
Recognizing common childhood illnesses and knowing when to visit a pediatrician ensures your child gets the best care. Regular check-ups and preventive care play a crucial role in maintaining long-term health.
For expert pediatric care, visit Siddiqui Pediatrics.