As parents, we are always concerned about our child’s health and well-being. We constantly check on them to see if they have any visible symptoms like fever, cough, rashes, or other clear signs of illness. But sometimes, the more telling signs that your child isn’t feeling well are not so obvious.
These subtle signs are often unnoticeable and can easily be ignored until they become more prominent. That’s why it’s important to look out for these symptoms and know when to take your child to the doctor.
Today, we’ve listed 10 unobvious signs that should prompt a visit to the doctor. Keep in mind that not all of these signs mean something serious, but it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional if they persist or worsen.
10 Unobvious Signs That Your Child Needs To See A Doctor
1. Changes in Sleeping Patterns
Children experience different sleep phases during their development. However, a significant change in sleeping patterns—such as sleeping too much or having trouble falling asleep—could indicate a health issue.
For example, if your child is sleeping more than usual and appears lethargic or unresponsive when awake, it could be a sign of an infection, a dietary deficiency, or a sleep disorder. Conversely, if they have trouble sleeping, wake up frequently during the night, experience night sweats, or seem restless, it may be a sign of acid reflux, allergies, or anxiety.
If these changes last for about two weeks, it’s better to contact your child’s pediatrician.
As kids grow their sleep requirements change and vary from child to child. However, if you notice a dramatic shift or one that does not go away – like sleeping significantly more than normal or difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep – it can be an indicator of an underlying medical condition.
The Sleep Foundation explains that chronic sleeping issues may be symptomatic of illness like infections, reflux, allergies, anxiety or sleep disorders and excessive daytime sleepiness or waking through the night frequently should not be overlooked. If this change in sleep persists for around two weeks or begins to impact your child’s behavior and energy during the day, reach out to your pediatrician.
Related:5 Signs Your Baby Is Ready To Stop Napping
2. Frequent Complaints of Stomachaches
According to Mayo Clinic, abdominal pain is common in children but most often due to causes such as stress, injury, menstruation, medications, or minor digestive issues. Abdominal pain that comes frequently or without explanation, is severe, lasts a long period of time, or is accompanied by other symptoms may be something to check with your doctor.
Common reasons for abdominal pain include constipation, indigestion, and viral infection. Seek medical care if your child experiences persistent abdominal pain, high fever, vomiting, bloody stool, or other concerning symptoms.
It’s common for children to complain of stomachaches, especially when they are anxious—such as before starting school or during long trips. However, if your child frequently complains of stomach pain with no clear cause, it could indicate a health problem.
Conditions like constipation or food intolerance can cause stomach pain, as well as more chronic issues such as Crohn’s disease or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). If the pain is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or weight loss, you should seek medical attention right away.
3. Unexplained Changes in Appetite
Riley Children’s Health explains that appetite loss or an increase in appetite can often be attributed to being sick, stressed, having digestive issues, or other causes. They note that if loss of appetite is temporary or your child’s appetite seems to be up and down frequently, then there may not be cause for concern.
However, if you notice your child has lost their appetite for a long period of time, is quickly gaining or losing weight, or is always hungry but also experiencing tiredness, nausea, or other changes in behavior, talk to your child’s doctor. Especially if these symptoms have persisted for several days.
A sudden loss of appetite can signal various health conditions. If your child suddenly refuses to eat or, on the other hand, begins eating excessively, it may point to a health issue.
A loss of appetite, combined with weight loss, fatigue, or nausea, could be caused by an infection, depression, or an eating disorder. Excessive eating could indicate a metabolic or hormonal imbalance. If this change in appetite lasts more than a few days, or if other concerning symptoms develop, it’s best to consult your child’s doctor.
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4. Unexplained Skin Changes
Children’s skin is more sensitive than adults’, and it’s common for them to experience minor irritations like rashes or dry skin.
However, if there are sudden or unexplained skin changes, especially on the face or around the eyes, or if the changes persist for several weeks, it could be a cause for concern.
Skin changes like discoloration, unusual rashes, or bruising can be signs of infections like impetigo, flare-ups of eczema, or something more serious like leukemia. Skin color changes, such as paleness or a bluish tint, may indicate a lack of oxygen and should be examined by a doctor.
5. Difficulty Walking or Clumsiness
Children are prone to falls and bumps as they develop motor skills. However, if your child starts tripping more frequently or has difficulty performing tasks they could do easily before, it may be a sign of an underlying issue.
Difficulty with coordination or balance, especially if it worsens or is accompanied by pain, can be indicative of a neurological disorder or an ear infection. Joint or muscle pain, swelling, or bruising could suggest an injury. If you notice these symptoms, it’s best to have your child examined to rule out more serious causes.
Related:5 Non-Obvious Signs That Your Child May Be Ahead in terms of Development
6. Excessive Thirst or Urination
Parents may overlook increased thirst and frequent urination as normal, but if your child is drinking and urinating more than usual, it’s a good idea to have them checked by a doctor. Excessive thirst and urination can be a warning sign of diabetes in children.
If your child is also experiencing unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and irritability, it may indicate diabetes or another health issue that requires medical attention. While diabetes isn’t the only cause of excessive thirst, it’s always better to be safe and consult with a doctor.
Increased thirst and urination: An early sign of diabetes in children can include drinking excess fluids and then urinating frequently. Unless activity or heat are contributing factors, abrupt increases in thirst and urination can be cause for concern.
Consuming excess fluids can lead to dehydration and thus more thirst as the body tries to rehydrate itself. When high blood sugar levels cause increased thirst and urination, excess glucose is filtered through the kidneys.
Fluid is pulled from the body during this process, leaving one dehydrated and needing to drink more fluids. Increased thirst and urination accompanied by weight loss, fatigue, or irritability warrants a visit to your child’s doctor to determine if diabetes or something else may be causing these symptoms, says Bon Secours.
7. Constant Coughing or Wheezing
Coughing is a common symptom in children, especially during the colder months. However, if your child’s cough persists for more than a week, it’s worth seeing a doctor.
A cough that doesn’t improve, worsens over time, or is accompanied by wheezing, chest pain, or shortness of breath could signal asthma, allergies, bronchitis, or pneumonia. If your child has trouble breathing or appears unable to catch their breath, you should seek medical attention immediately.
Related: Why Do Babies Spit Up and How to Reduce It?
8. Persistent Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Bad breath in children can often be linked to the food they’ve eaten, but if the bad breath persists without any clear cause, it’s worth consulting a doctor.
Chronic bad breath may indicate digestive problems, a sinus infection, or an issue with the teeth or gums. It could also be a sign of diabetes, kidney problems, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If your child’s bad breath lasts for several days and there are no obvious causes, it’s important to have them evaluated by a doctor.
9. Unexplained Fever
Fever is a common symptom of illness in children, but it’s important to pay attention to how high the fever is and how long it lasts.
A mild fever is usually nothing to worry about, but if your child’s fever exceeds 102°F (38.9°C) and lasts more than three days, it could indicate a bacterial infection, a viral infection that needs treatment, or another condition requiring medical attention.
If your child also experiences chills, nausea, fatigue, or body aches, this could be a sign of a more serious condition like strep throat, pneumonia, or a urinary tract infection. If the fever is accompanied by confusion, difficulty staying awake, or a rash, contact your child’s pediatrician immediately.
Related:10 Ways to Keep Your Baby’s Skin Healthy
10. Behavioral Changes or Withdrawal
Children can act out if they are hungry, tired, or frustrated, but if your child suddenly becomes unusually withdrawn, irritable, or shows signs of anxiety or depression, it may be more than just a phase.
Behavioral changes can sometimes be linked to physical health problems such as hormonal imbalances, chronic pain, or neurological disorders. Additionally, if your child is showing signs of distress, such as poor performance in school, changes in eating habits, or withdrawing from social activities, it could indicate emotional or mental health concerns that may require professional help.
Conclusion
Knowing when to take your child to the doctor can be a difficult decision. Some symptoms are obvious, while others are more subtle and can be easy to dismiss. If your child is experiencing any of the signs listed above, it’s best to contact their pediatrician.
However, if you’re ever in doubt, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Trust your instincts as a parent, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when you feel that something isn’t right. Early intervention can make all the difference in ensuring that your child stays healthy, happy, and safe.
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