When Should I Take my Child to the ER?

If you are a parent, there’s nothing worse than seeing your child suffering. How do you know that it’s time to take your child to your local emergency room in Bulverde?

One call to your pediatrician or conducting a quick search online may put your mind at ease, but when it comes to your child’s health, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Below are the signs that you should watch out for, which should alert you that it’s best to take your child to the emergency room.

1. High Fever

Fever remains to be the number one cause for emergency room visits for children. Fever is a sign that the body is fighting off infections, however, it can be dangerous if it gets too high. Be sure to give your doctor a call if his rectal temperature is above 100.4°F and take your child to your nearest emergency room if he is under 3 months old.

If your child is unresponsive or suffers seizures, go straight to the emergency room.

2. Head Bumps

Keep a close eye on your child if he bumps his head, especially for the next 48 hours. If he has persistent drowsiness, dizziness, has inability to balance, or has problems speaking, take your child directly to the emergency room.

3. Stomach Pain

All kids suffer from stomach pain every now and then. But when it lasts for more than a few hours, you should start worrying.

If your child’s tummy ache is accompanied by loss of appetite, weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, dehydration, or is in a lot of pain that he has difficulty walking, it is time to take your child to the emergency room.

4. Skin Rash

If your child has a widespread skin rash that is accompanied by swelling, fever, headaches, blistering, trouble breathing, weakness, or profuse bleeding, make a trip to the emergency room.

5. Difficulty Breathing

If you suspect that your child might have choked on an object, rush to the emergency room. Observe if he is breathing with his belly. This may be a sign that his respiratory system is obstructed.

If you need emergency medical care, Physicians Premier, your emergency room in Bulverde is open 24/7.