When Should I Take My Kid to the Doctor?

Your pediatrician, family doctor, or nurse practitioner wants to help your child stay active and healthy. But it can be hard to know when to call the provider’s office. Reach out whenever you have a concern or question about your child’s mental, emotional, or physical health. Here are six specific times you should call a health professional.

1. Your Child Has an Illness or Injury

Rely on the knowledge and experience of your child’s doctor during a common illness or after a minor injury, like:

• Allergy and asthma symptoms
• Broken bones
• Cold and flu symptoms
• Cuts, scrapes, and rashes
• Ear infections and earaches
• Eye infections and pink eye
• Minor headache
• Sore throat
• Sprains and strains
• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Vomiting and diarrhea

Pediatric Emergency Care

In the event of a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

2. It’s Time for a Well Visit

It’s important to track your child’s overall health with well visits. These regular visits can give you peace of mind and help you:

• Prevent illness with childhood vaccinations
• Complete the requirements for school and sports physicals
• Monitor your child's health

3. You Want Health & Safety Tips

Get helpful information about how to prevent injuries and keep your child safe. Talk to your pediatrician about children's health issues, including:

• Healthy lifestyle habits like exercise and nutrition
• Weight issues
• Behavioral and mental health concerns
• Safe touch awareness

4. Your Child Needs Help Managing Chronic Conditions

Receive comprehensive care to diagnose and treat your child's long-term condition, such as:

• Asthma
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Cerebral palsy
• Cystic fibrosis
• Diabetes
• Epilepsy

5. You Want Information on Growth & Development

Your pediatrician will help you know what’s normal growth and development and what you can expect at each milestone. Keep an open line of communication with your child’s doctor and talk about any behaviors you notice at home. Your information will help the doctor determine if your child should seek treatment for a learning or developmental disability.

6. You Need Referrals to Specialists

As an expert in children’s health, your pediatrician can provide referrals and coordinate care with specialists when needed.

Pediatric Care

Let your child’s doctor know if you have concerns about their health. Schedule an appointment online with a pediatrician or call 703.717.7545.