How the child looks, drinks, breathes and responds is often as important as the temperature number.
Breathing effort, wheeze and duration can help determine the next step.
Hydration and the child’s ability to keep fluids down are important.
These are common but may need examination to identify the cause.
What the GP may consider
The next step depends on the clinical picture.
Primary care combines history, examination and targeted investigation where appropriate. The goal is not to test everything, but to answer the right clinical questions.
Younger infants and children who appear very unwell need a lower threshold for assessment.
Urine output, drinking and signs of dehydration matter.
Ears, throat, chest, abdomen and skin may all be relevant depending on symptoms.
Children can change quickly, so worsening symptoms may require reassessment.
Seek urgent care for severe breathing difficulty, a child who is difficult to wake, seizure, signs of severe dehydration, a non-blanching rash, or another rapidly worsening concern. If you are unsure and symptoms are severe or rapidly worsening, seek urgent medical assessment.
Book a consultation
Online information cannot replace an examination when one is needed.
Book an in-person or teleconsultation with the Bryanston practice and let the doctor guide the next step.
Condition enquiry
Still unsure what your symptoms mean?
Describe what is concerning you and the practice can help guide whether an in-person consultation, teleconsultation or another route is appropriate.
Please do not use this form or WhatsApp for emergencies or send unnecessary sensitive medical information in an initial enquiry.