Common Concerns: When To Consult a Pediatrician

It's normal for a parent, especially a new one, to have worries, with some parents leaning on the cautious side more than others. We understand you don't want to constantly be on the phone or in our office. That's why Pediatric Specialists of Tulsa, serving Tulsa, OK, and the nearby region, would like you to know when you should reach out to a pediatrician for an appointment with Dr. Lauren Hayes, Dr. Uyen Le, or Dr. Stacy O'Sullivan.

When a Fever Requires Attention

Minor fevers can be managed at home with a fever reducer and other measures. However, in some cases, a pediatrician visit to our Tulsa, OK, office may be required.

Fevers of varying temperatures are concerning based on your little one's age. However, at any age, a temperature of 104 or higher that isn't going away with over-the-counter (OTC) fever reducers is a reason to schedule a sick visit or take your little one to urgent care.

If the temperature of newborns and those up to three months old is 100.4 or higher, we recommend booking an appointment. 

We also recommend calling us if the fever is persistent (for three days or more) and doesn't go away even when you give them a fever reducer.

Vomiting and Diarrhea

If your child is continuously vomiting and isn't keeping anything down, we strongly recommend contacting us. This can easily lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous, especially in younger children. The same applies if your little one has diarrhea that isn't going away.

A dehydrated kid may have dry lips. In an infant, the baby may have a hollow soft spot. Fewer than normal wet diapers are a sign in babies of any age.

Signs of Strep Throat or an Ear Infection

It's best to contact us whenever your little one has a sore throat that isn't going away, possibly accompanied by a loss of appetite, fever, or headache. Check inside their mouth; if you see white patches and a reddened throat, it may be strep.

An ear infection is another reason for an examination. The signs include the following:

• Ear pain
• Trouble sleeping
• Fluid or pus coming from the ear
• Loss of balance
• Difficulty hearing
• Fussiness (infants and toddlers, in particular)
• Tugging on their ear (infants and toddlers, specifically)

These are merely some of the times to contact Pediatric Specialists of Tulsa, serving Tulsa, OK, and the general vicinity, to see Dr. Hayes, Dr. Le, or Dr. O'Sullivan. We can diagnose the problem and provide treatment, which may consist of at-home care, including OTC medication, antibiotics, or other drugs.

Call (918) 523-5437 today.