Children have weaker immune systems than adults, so they tend to get sick more frequently. While you can often treat the sniffles or a tummy ache at home, some ailments call for an immediate trip to an emergency doctor. As a parent, it’s important to heed the signs of a serious problem, so consider the guide below.

4 Signs Your Child Needs to See an Emergency Doctor

1. Fever

Many fevers can be treated at home with over-the-counter medications, fluids, and rest. However, if your child’s fever is 104 degrees or higher, or accompanied by symptoms like seizures, vomiting, and trouble breathing, they need to see an emergency doctor.

2. Trouble Breathing

As a parent, it’s incredibly frightening when your child struggles to breathe. If your little one is breathing rapidly, turning blue, or using other muscles to breathe, go to an emergency care clinic as soon as possible.

3. Vomiting

Whether it’s caused by the stomach flu or excess junk food, many kids have thrown up at least once. While these episodes usually resolve themselves, they can sometimes become serious. Your child may require immediate medical care if they can’t keep liquids down, are lethargic, or vomit blood.

4. Stiff Neck

If your child has a stiff neck along with a fever, they could have meningitis. This condition is marked by the inflammation of the brain and spinal cord and can lead to dangerous complications—including seizures, kidney problems, vision loss, and loss of limbs. It’s critical to get your child to the emergency room and reduce the risk of these long-term problems. 

If your child is experiencing any of the symptoms above, take them to an emergency doctor. Orange Beach Walk-In Medical Care in Baldwin County, AL, treats a broad variety of minor illnesses and injuries, including the flu, burns, cuts, and broken bones. The urgent care center also offers appointments after business hours to fit your busy schedule. For more information, call (251) 964­-7425 or visit their website.