When you see these symptoms, do not wait and watch. See your doctor immediately.

1. High Fever

A fever is a body temperature that is higher than normal. A normal body temperature in children aged 1 and younger is 37.5°C – 37.7°C. A normal body temperature in children aged 2 – 5 years is 37.0°C – 37.2°C. Fevers are very common in young children and are usually caused by a viral infection. They are usually mild and can be taken care of at home. However, if your baby’s temperature is higher than normal, call your doctor right away! Keep your child well hydrated till you see a doctor.

2. Long lasting fever

Fever doesn’t last long and if after you’ve given your child acetaminophen or ibuprofen and the temperature refuses to go down within four to six hours? Or if the fever lasts for more than 5 days, call your doctor as this may mean the infection is too strong for the body to fight naturally. Take the child in for a test to determine the cause and medication.

3. Headache with vomiting

These could be migraine. They are not dangerous but your doctor needs to be aware so he can administer the right drugs. However, if it occurs mostly in the morning and middle-of-the-night, it can be a signal of something more serious, see a doctor right away.

4. Dehydration

Dehydration shouldn’t be joked with as it can lead to shock. The most common signs are decreased urination, dry mouth and lips, dry skin, flat fontanelle in babies, excessive vomiting or diarrhea.

5. Sudden Stomach Pain

If your child complains of stomach pain on the lower right side, ask her to try to jump up and down—if it’s painful for her to do, it can be a sign of appendicitis. Double check everything with your doctor.

6. Vomiting after fall

Falls are generally not problematic. However, if you notice the child vomiting, acting faint or unconscious after a fall, you must see your doctor as soon as possible.

7. An unusual mole

If your child had moles at birth, keep close tabs on them, if you notice changes like increase in size, colour, or shape, tell your doctor as they may be signs of a potential skin cancer. Early detection saves lives.