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Children fall ill frequently, especially in their early years as their immune systems are still developing. Most illnesses are mild and resolve on their own, but knowing when to seek medical attention can make all the difference. Dr. Namita Sinha, with 25+ years of pediatric experience, has put together this guide to help parents in South Delhi recognise common childhood illnesses and understand when a doctor's visit is necessary.
Fever is one of the most common reasons parents visit a pediatrician. It is the body's natural response to infection and is not always dangerous on its own. In children above 3 months, a temperature up to 102°F can often be managed at home with paracetamol and fluids. However, the cause of fever matters more than the temperature itself.
See a doctor immediately if: Your child is under 3 months old with any fever, temperature exceeds 104°F, fever lasts more than 3 days, or child appears unusually lethargic, has difficulty breathing, or develops a rash.
Children can have 6 to 8 colds per year, especially in the pre-school years. A runny nose, mild cough, and low-grade fever are typical symptoms. Most colds are viral and resolve within 7–10 days without antibiotics. Steam inhalation, adequate fluids, and rest are helpful at home.
See a doctor if: Cough persists beyond 2 weeks, breathing becomes rapid or laboured, child develops wheezing, or there is thick green nasal discharge with high fever suggesting a bacterial infection.
Loose motions in children are usually caused by viral infections (rotavirus being the most common), contaminated food or water, or antibiotic use. Dehydration is the main risk with diarrhoea. ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) is the cornerstone of home management. Continue feeding your child normally — do not starve them.
See a doctor immediately if: Child passes more than 8 stools in a day, there is blood in the stool, child shows signs of dehydration (sunken eyes, dry mouth, no tears, no urination for 6+ hours), or vomiting is severe and persistent.
Vomiting in children is most commonly caused by viral gastroenteritis, food intolerance, or motion sickness. Single episodes or vomiting associated with fever usually settle with rest and small, frequent sips of fluids. Avoid solid food for a few hours after vomiting and reintroduce slowly.
See a doctor if: Vomiting is forceful and projectile, persists beyond 24 hours, is associated with severe abdominal pain, or if there are signs of dehydration.
Ear infections are very common in young children, especially after a cold. Typical signs include ear pain (young children may tug at their ears), fever, irritability, and sometimes temporary hearing difficulty. Most ear infections are bacterial and require antibiotic treatment prescribed by a doctor.
See a doctor if: Your child is pulling at their ear repeatedly, is unusually irritable especially at night, develops fever after a cold, or you notice any discharge from the ear.
Rashes in children have many causes — viral illnesses (like chickenpox or roseola), allergic reactions, heat rash, or eczema. Most rashes in children are not dangerous but can be difficult to identify without examination. Note whether the rash is raised or flat, spreading, and whether it is associated with fever or itching.
See a doctor immediately if: The rash is purple or reddish and does not fade when pressed (glass test), is spreading rapidly, is associated with high fever and the child looks very unwell, or there is swelling of the face or throat.
Wheezing — a high-pitched whistling sound when breathing — in children is often caused by asthma, bronchiolitis (in infants), or an allergic reaction. Children with recurrent wheezing episodes should be evaluated for asthma. Nebulization and inhaler therapy under medical supervision can provide effective relief.
See a doctor immediately if: Child's lips or fingernails appear bluish, ribs are visibly sucking in with each breath, child cannot complete a sentence without pausing to breathe, or there is any sudden onset of breathing difficulty.
Conjunctivitis is common in children and causes redness, discharge, and crusting of the eyes. It can be viral (usually clears on its own), bacterial (requires antibiotic eye drops), or allergic. It is highly contagious — ensure your child washes hands frequently and does not share towels or pillows.
See a doctor if: There is thick yellow or green discharge, significant swelling around the eye, eye pain, or if the child is a newborn with any eye discharge.
Take your child to emergency care without delay if they have: difficulty breathing or turning blue, a seizure or fit, loss of consciousness, a stiff neck with high fever, a non-blanching purple rash, severe allergic reaction with swelling of throat or face, or any situation where your instinct tells you something is seriously wrong. Trust your instincts — you know your child best.
Dr. Namita Sinha is available Monday to Saturday, 11 AM to 2 PM at Nirmal Medical Center, South Delhi.
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