Determining the right time to seek medical advice for your child can be a complex decision. While many common symptoms can be managed at home, if you are unsure, it is advisable to contact your GP or call 111 for assistance.

Normal symptoms often follow a pattern of getting worse and then improving with time, so keeping track of your child’s condition is crucial. Serious illnesses, on the other hand, typically show a consistent deterioration.

Cough

Typical coughs may persist for 3-4 weeks and cause discomfort, yet they generally resolve on their own.

Chesty coughs are prevalent during colds in young children and are usually not an indication of a chest infection.

Coughing helps the body fight off illness by clearing mucus from the respiratory system.

To identify a chest infection, watch out for these 3 symptoms:

• Persistent or repetitive moderately high fever
  • Fever above 38.5°C for 5 days
  • Increased breathing rate according to age

Most children experience 7-10 coughs per year, which is considered normal and does not necessarily suggest immune system problems.

While some kids may be more susceptible to illness and coughing, it typically falls within the normal range.

Fever

In children, a temperature over 37.5°C is defined as a fever.

Fever is the body’s natural defense mechanism and is usually not harmful.

Elevated temperature is:

• for babies under 3 months = 38°C or higher
• for babies 3-6 months = 39°C or higher
• for children over 6 months = 40°C or higher

High fevers tend to resolve on their own.

Fevers may trigger seizures in some children, but these are often harmless.

Reduced Eating or Drinking

Illness can diminish children’s appetite. Encouraging them to drink fluids can help prevent dehydration.

To prevent dehydration, watch for signs like drowsiness, dryness, and decreased urination.

Sleep Disturbances

Coughs can disrupt sleep. Honey or vapor rubs may aid in relieving coughs.

For pain or fever that disrupts sleep, Paracetamol and Ibuprofen can be helpful.

Vomiting

Vomiting during illness is common and not usually a cause for alarm.

Vomiting in children can be triggered by coughing, swallowing mucus, or crying.

Colored Phlegm

Colored phlegm during a cough is a normal response and indicates the body’s defense mechanism in action.

Pain and Discomfort

Pain accompanying a cough is typical and can be managed with medication.

Low Energy

Coughs can lead to fatigue as the body battles the illness.

If severe fatigue or unresponsiveness is observed, it may indicate a more serious problem.

Difficulty Breathing

Breathing difficulties during a cough are common and usually not severe.

Severe symptoms may include rapid breathing and bluish skin.

If your child shows signs of a more serious illness or breathing challenges, seek medical advice promptly.

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Children often experience frequent colds, particularly in colder seasons.

Cold symptoms may include a runny nose, sneezing, fatigue, fever, and vomiting.

Most colds improve within 7-10 days with proper care.

It is important to ensure that children get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and eat nutritious foods to help their immune system fight off the cold virus. Encouraging frequent handwashing and teaching proper coughing and sneezing etiquette can also help prevent the spread of colds among children.

If a child’s symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to seek medical attention to rule out any complications or underlying conditions.

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Vomiting may be triggered by coughing, mucus ingestion, or excessive crying.

Encouraging increased eating during illness may contribute to vomiting.

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Frequent vomiting can be worrying for parents, but when dealing with a child experiencing a cold and vomiting, staying calm and observing symptoms is key.

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• Vomiting starts suddenly and intensely.
• Frequent and continuous vomiting.
• Vomiting bile, blood, or stool.
• Inability to eat or breastfeed.
• Vomiting with a high fever.
• Vomiting with signs of dehydration.
• Or severe symptoms such as convulsions, lethargy, rapid breathing, etc.

If any severe symptoms arise, seek medical attention for the child immediately.

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If vomiting is mild, parents can:

Rehydrate and Replace Electrolytes: Offer water or oral rehydration solutions in small amounts, encourage rest, provide light and small meals, wait before feeding again, and address cold symptoms.

• Keep the environment clean and warm.
• Use saline solution to clear the child’s nose.
• Apply a warm compress to reduce fever.
• Promote handwashing to prevent the spread of the virus.
• Avoid using antibiotics without a doctor’s prescription.
• Vaccinate children against the flu.

Additional_Subheading

It’s important for parents to monitor the child’s symptoms closely and consult a healthcare provider if the vomiting persists or worsens. Providing comfort, adequate hydration, and rest can help the child recover from the cold and reduce the frequency of vomiting. Additionally, following proper hygiene practices and ensuring the child is up to date on vaccinations can prevent further illnesses.

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Vomiting due to a cold can be distressing for parents, but remaining calm and offering appropriate care is essential. For serious issues, seek medical attention.

Contact for appointments or bookings. Download the MyVinmec app for quicker scheduling.

healthdirect Australia provides a free service offering medical advice from a nurse or doctor.

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• Babies may spit up small amounts of food after eating.
• Viral gastroenteritis is a common cause of vomiting.
• Excessive vomiting may result in dehydration.
• Vomiting is a frequent reason for doctor visits.
• Offer small quantities of oral rehydration solution or water to keep children hydrated.

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Vomiting is a common symptom in children and a common reason for visiting the doctor.

Children may vomit due to various reasons, with viral gastroenteritis being a prevalent cause.

Dehydration is a concern when children vomit, especially in infants.

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Vomiting in children often accompanies additional symptoms such as diarrhea.

Children may experience projectile vomiting or breathing difficulties along with vomiting.

Utilize the Symptom Checker for further guidance.

In addition to vomiting and diarrhea, children may also experience fever, headache, and abdominal pain when they are sick.

It is important to monitor the child’s symptoms and seek medical attention if vomiting persists or if other concerning symptoms develop.

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• Intussusception (intestinal obstruction) occurs when one section of the intestine slides into another, causing a blockage. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and “currant jelly” stool.
• Pyloric stenosis is a condition where the opening between the stomach and small intestine narrows, leading to projectile vomiting in infants. This usually occurs within the first few weeks of life.
• Increased intracranial pressure can result from a variety of conditions such as head trauma, tumors, or infections. Symptoms may include vomiting, headache, lethargy, and changes in vision.

It’s important to seek medical attention promptly if any of these conditions are suspected in children to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

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A medical assessment will evaluate the duration of vomiting in your child and any accompanying symptoms to make an accurate diagnosis.

A physical examination will be conducted to identify signs of dehydration.

Diagnostic tests may help in understanding the root cause of chronic vomiting.

A referral to a specialist, such as a gastroenterologist, allergist, neurologist, or pediatrician, may be recommended for persistent vomiting issues.

CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR — Use the Question Builder tool to prepare for your appointment with a GP or specialist.

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Babies under 6 months experiencing vomiting or suspected gastroenteritis should be seen by a healthcare professional. If a child has underlying health conditions such as diabetes or epilepsy and is vomiting, seeking medical help is crucial.
Young infants are more vulnerable to risks associated with vomiting. Here’s a guideline on seeking medical assistance based on the duration of vomiting:
– Babies under 6 months or weighing less than 8kg
– Children under 3 years with 12 hours of vomiting
– Children under 6 years with 24 hours of vomiting
– Children 6 years and older with 48 hours of vomiting
In cases where a child vomits along with symptoms like blood in vomit, green or brown vomit, persistent vomiting, inability to retain fluids, severe abdominal or rectal pain, stiff neck or photophobia, fever above 38.5°C, or signs of dehydration, immediate visit is necessary.
To locate a health service, you can use the Service Finder to find nearby doctors, pharmacies, hospitals, and health services.
Most cases of childhood vomiting are due to viral gastroenteritis, which can often be managed at home. However, for dehydrated children and infants under 6 months, seeking immediate medical attention is critical.
Vomiting usually resolves without specific treatment, so focus on ensuring your child stays hydrated. Offer oral rehydration solution to replenish lost minerals and salts. For cases of viral gastroenteritis, which may take 1-2 days to improve, caring at home is possible, with diarrhea potentially lasting longer.
For infants and babies over 6 months with vomiting caused by gastroenteritis, follow these guidelines:
– Breastfed babies should nurse more frequently and be offered milk after vomiting, followed by oral rehydration solution or water.
– Formula-fed babies should switch to oral rehydration solution or water for the first 12 hours, gradually reintroducing formula in small amounts after vomiting episodes.
– Ensure the child gets enough rest.
For older children with gastroenteritis-induced vomiting:
– Offer small, frequent clear fluid intakes every 15 minutes.
– Oral rehydration solutions are highly recommended for children experiencing frequent vomiting or diarrhea.
– Avoid sports drinks, lemonade, or cordial, as they can worsen dehydration.
It is acceptable for children to resist solid foods for a day or two, as long as they maintain fluid intake. Once ready, reintroduce plain foods gradually. Ensure the child rests adequately, and refrain from sending them to nursery, day care, or school until at least 24 hours after their last loose bowel movement.
If concerned about a child’s persistent vomiting, seek guidance from a healthcare provider or pharmacist. Avoid giving children anti-vomiting medications without professional advice and opt for oral rehydration solutions instead.
Specific treatment for vomiting depends on the underlying cause, such as motion sickness, bacterial infections, meningitis, diabetic ketoacidosis, and conditions like appendicitis, bowel obstruction, and pyloric stenosis, which might require surgical intervention.
Keep in mind that gastroenteritis is a common cause of vomiting in kids and can easily spread among them. To prevent transmission, ensure regular handwashing, good food hygiene, and keeping ill children away from childcare facilities.
Consult a doctor or dietitian if your child vomits after specific foods. Vaccinations against causes like rotavirus or meningitis can help prevent vomiting in children. Preventing dehydration is crucial in cases of vomiting, as severe dehydration can be life-threatening.
For more information and support, you can explore resources at The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, The Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, NIP allergies in the Bub, or contact healthdirect on 1800 022 222.Visit Who can I call for information and advice? on the Pregnancy, Birth and Baby website for a list of resources.
Explore more information about Pathology Tests Explained on their website.

Crohn’s Disease | Ausmed

Crohn’s disease results in inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, categorized as a form of inflammatory bowel disease.

Read further on the Ausmed Education website.

Disclaimer

Healthdirect Australia does not take responsibility for the content found on external websites.

Related pages

• Potential reasons for vomiting
• Vomiting episodes
• How to prevent vomiting
• When to seek medical help for vomiting

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