Q: My child's barking cough and fever got worse after a doctor's visit. Should I go back?

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Question:

My child has a high fever and a severe, barking cough, especially when sleeping. We visited the doctor this morning, and they said everything was fine and didn't give us any antibiotics. But the cough seems worse now. Should we go back to the hospital immediately tomorrow?

Answer:

It's completely understandable to be worried in this situation.

🟠 If any of the following apply → This is an emergency. Go to the ER tonight or see a doctor first thing tomorrow morning.

* You see the skin pulling in between the ribs or below the neck when your child inhales (retractions).

* Their lips or fingernails are turning blueish.

* You hear wheezing or a high-pitched, metallic sound when they breathe (stridor).

* The child is constantly irritable and cannot be soothed, or is very lethargic and difficult to wake.

* They are unable to swallow and are drooling, or their voice has suddenly become hoarse.

* They have not urinated in over 8 hours.

What to do at home right now

* If the night air is cool, open a window or have your child sit in front of an open refrigerator for 5-10 minutes to breathe in the cool air.

* Hold your child upright or use pillows to elevate their head and torso while sleeping.

* Encourage frequent, small sips of water.

* If the high fever is causing discomfort, use a fever reducer appropriate for your child's weight (we can provide dosage information if needed).

When to revisit the pediatrician

* The barking cough continues during the day or recurs every night.

* The fever lasts for more than 3 days or returns after subsiding.

* There is a significant decrease in their usual eating and activity levels.

You can call the pediatrician you saw this morning and inform them that "the barking cough got worse at night" to receive further instructions. After hours or on holidays, use a local urgent care clinic or the emergency room.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

https://fevercoach.us