When Should I Worry?

Most children with a cold, cough, sore throat or earache, who see their GP, will still be ill 4 days later. This does not mean that they need treatment or need to be seen again.

Most common infections do not get better quicker with antibiotics.

One third of children who have seen their GP with a cough will still be coughing 2 weeks later. This does not mean that they need treatment.

Only children with signs of more serious illness generally need to be seen by a doctor or nurse.

These signs include:

Excessive drowsiness.

Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing.

Cold or discoloured hands &/or feet with warm body.

Abnormal pains in arms &/or legs.

Abnormal colour (pale or blue).

When Should I Worry Booklet

 

Published: Sep 10, 2018