Subtle Emergencies Not To Miss
Parents don't overlook emergencies such as choking, labored breathing, or convulsions. However, there are some urgent symptoms that parents tend to underestimate. A delayed diagnosis with these symptoms can cause major complications:
- First: If the scrotum becomes swollen or tender, it may be due to torsion (or twisting) of the testicle. This condition requires surgery within 6 to 12 hours to save the testicle.
- Second: The sudden onset of drooling and the inability to swallow can mean that your child has a serious infection of the tonsil, throat, or epiglottis.
- Third: If your child cries when you hold him or move him, he's in extreme pain and may have meningitis.
- Fourth: The sudden onset of an inability to sleep can mean your child is either having trouble breathing or is in severe pain.
- Fifth: If your child has vomiting or diarrhea, watch for signs of dehydration. Two reliable signs are not urinating in over 8 hours for infants (12 hours for older children) or having a very dry mouth rather than a moist one.
- Finally: If your child develops any of these symptoms, please call your healthcare provider immediately, day or night.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.
Author and Senior Reviewer: Barton D. Schmitt, M.D. FAAP
Last Review: 6/1/2008
Last Revised: 6/1/2000
Copyright 1994-2008 Barton Schmitt, M.D. Parent Advice Messages.
