5 Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

11 Jul 5 Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

If there is one thing that parents understand, it is that kids get sick. Unfortunately, as little ones grow up and build their immune system, they tend to catch (and carry) all types of bugs and illnesses ranging from the sniffles to the flu, stomach infections and everything in between. While parents may be used to their kids sniffling and sneezing all the time, and generally these are no cause for alarm, there are a few symptoms that are much more serious, and that should never be ignored.

We have detailed five serious symptoms that parents should be aware of. If your child is experiencing these symptoms, it is important that you don’t ignore them and that you make sure they get medical attention right away.

1. Rashes That Come With Other Illness Symptoms- Rashes are extremely common in kids and the majority of rashes are really no cause for concern—unless they come with other illness side effects. Purple rashes, painful rashes or rashes that develop when a child is showing other symptoms of illness are a cause for concern and shouldn’t be ignored. If your child has a fever, or is vomiting and also has a rash, you need to visit your physician right away.
2. Extreme Sleepiness- Kids like to sleep and need to sleep a lot to stay healthy. However, if your child is taking lots of extra naps and seems to be going to bed earlier than usual, it may be a sign of concern. This is especially important with babies. Infants need around 14-15 hours of sleep per night according to the National Sleep Foundation. However, if they aren’t even waking up to feed, you should call your doctor right away.
3. Pain While Urinating- If your child is complaining of extreme pain while they urinate—it should not be ignored. If your little girl is experiencing this symptom, it may be vulvitis or a UTI. Older children may not only complain about discomfort while peeing but have foul-smelling urine, or have accidents even after they’ve been potty trained. Both boys and girls can have these issues.
4. Joint Swelling- As kids start to grow, they may complain of some arm or leg pain, especially once they are more active, or if they are experiencing “growing pains.” However, joint swelling is not common and should require a trip to the doctor’s office. If the joints are swollen, your child is in extreme pain or if they have a fever along with it, you need to go to a doctor right away. It could be sepsis, rheumatoid arthritis or another serious condition.
5. Excessive Thirst- Kids need to be drinking plenty of water to stay healthy and hydrated, however, if your child is drinking a lot more water than usual for a few days in a row, waking up in the middle of the night to drink or simply can’t seem to quench his or her thirst, it may be a sign of diabetes.

If you have any questions about these symptoms or have any concerns at all regarding your child’s health, give the experts at Continuum Pediatrics a call. You can schedule an appointment with us by calling 817-617-8600 so you can make sure your child is getting the medical care that they deserve.