CRYING CHILD OLDER THAN 3 MONTHS OLD (IRRITABILITY, FUSSINESS)

 

Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

 

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR CRYING CHILD OLDER THAN 3 MONTHS OLD

Call 911 Now (your child may need an ambulance)

  • Not moving or very weak

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

  • Your child looks or acts very sick.
  • Stiff neck or bulging soft spot.
  • Possible injury (especially head or bone injury).
  • Very irritable, screaming child for more than 1 hour.
  • You are afraid you might hurt your baby.
  • Your child cannot be comforted after trying for more than 2 hours.
  • Crying interferes with sleeping for more than 2 hours.

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If

  • You think your child needs to be seen.

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

  • You have other questions or concerns.
  • Mild, off-and-on fussiness (acts normal when not crying) continues for more than 2 days.

Parent Care at Home If

  • Mild fussiness present less than 2 days and you don't think your child needs to be seen.

Disclaimer: This information is not intended 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.

Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 7/2002

See Other Topics:

View Anatomic Index of Topics