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It seemed to be a simple scratch — one of many your child has collected throughout the years. He is too wild with his playing, too willing to disregard the hesitations the world often requires. So he trips; and he stumbles; and you understand this to be ordinary.
The sudden appearance of a fever, however, is not. Your child is lethargic, unable to rouse himself for the games he loves. You can think of no reason for this illness. He was the pinnacle of health only yesterday. But then you recall the cut on his hand, caused by a sharp fall. You quickly undo a bandage and discover that a wound is inflamed, with red circling it in warning. It’s infected — and you realize that your simple efforts of healing were not enough.
It’s often a difficult thing to understand the complexities of the human body. Minor injuries can become dangerous; seemingly complicated wounds can be cared for efficiently. It becomes your duty as a mother then to navigate this world, to know when to seek professional care and when to simply allow a body to heal itself.
You must contact a doctor if your child has:
One: Extended symptoms. Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and more are all common to parents. Should these remain for longer than a few days, however, there should be concern. Schedule an appointment if symptoms do not lessen over time.
Two: High fevers. While it’s to be expected that children will develop fevers, those peeking above 103 degrees aren’t to be ignored. If efforts to break the illness fail, you must go to your physician.
Three: Inflammation. If a wound is surrounded by swollen skin and is accompanied by joint stiffness and sudden pain (even after being treated), it should be examined by a doctor.
You must be aware of the worries that can so easily occur. Monitor every ache and understand when your child needs more than your affection.
