Toddler Health Concerns – Looking After a Sick Toddler

Looking Out for Toddler Illnesses

Babies, toddlers and young children get sick – it’s part of our body’s development. Exposure to childhood illnesses and germs makes your toddler’s immune system stronger and more equipped to fight the next invader. Ensure your toddler has plenty of rest, and a healthy diet with fresh fruit and vegetables, love and attention, fresh air and adequate sleep to help them avoid and get through those sick times. Trust your gut instinct (otherwise known as the second brain) when deciding whether or not to take your sick toddler to the doctor.

What to look out for when you have a sick toddler

YYour toddler can rapidly deteriorate in health and they can also recover very quickly from illness. It is important to be alert to changes in your toddler’s behaviour, and general health and well-being so you can monitor and aid their recovery.

If you notice any of the symptoms listed below you should seek medical advice immediately. Even if there is nothing serious found, peace of mind and knowledge can be enough to make a visit worthwhile. Parenting is a lot about gaining confidence and knowledge for the next time something happens.

• Your toddler is refusing fluids and having less trips to the toilet, or fewer wet nappies;
• Refusing food for several days;
• Becoming listless, lethargic or unusually difficult to rouse;
• Inconsolably crying or screaming for hours and gaining no comfort from usual settling measures;
• Changes in skin colour such as having red cheeks, your toddler may also have a yellowish or bluish tinge, or reddish rash;
• Has a fever with a temperature above 38°C and rising or associated with fitting, or there is a family history of febrile convulsions;
• Remains febrile for a couple of days or more;
• Has liquid and frequent bowel motions (toddler diarrhoea) that are causing nappy rash and abdominal pains;
• Has projectile vomiting after consecutive meals with no bowel movements;
• Is crying after pebble-like bowel actions. If the bowel action contains blood or stringy white mucous, is frothy, frequent and more offensive in smell than normal;
• Has a cold that interferes with breathing or feeding;
• Has an unexplainable raised rash on parts or all of the body;
• Has a red discolouration of either eye with a creamy discharge;
• Has a fall and is now crying in certain feeding or holding positions;
• Sustains a burn or a wound that you are unsure how to care for;
• You just have a gut feeling.

Frequently asked questions about a sick toddler

What are common diseases in children?

Common childhood illnesses include respiratory infections like the common cold and influenza, which are prevalent in young children. Gastroenteritis (gastro), often caused by viruses, can lead to vomiting and diarrhoea. Ear infections are also frequent, particularly in toddlers. Allergies, asthma, and conditions like hand, foot, and mouth disease can affect many children as well. Additionally, childhood overweight and obesity is becoming increasingly common, posing long-term health risks. Regular check-ups and vaccinations are essential for prevention and early detection of these illnesses, ensuring children maintain optimal health as they grow.

When should I be concerned about my toddler being sick?

Concerns about your toddler's health should prompt immediate medical attention in several situations. If your child has a fever of 38°C or higher that persists for more than a couple of days, or if they exhibit difficulty breathing, it is essential to consult a doctor or seek medical advice without delay.. Additionally, signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth or decreased urination, warrant further medical investigation. Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea lasting over 24 hours, unusual drowsiness or irritability, sudden rashes, or injuries with severe pain should also be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Trust your instincts; if something feels off, seek medical advice promptly.

Should I let a sick toddler sleep all day?

Sleep plays a crucial role in the healing process, helping the body fight off infections and regain strength. However, it is important to monitor your little one’s overall condition. If your toddler is excessively lethargic, difficult to wake, or exhibits other concerning symptoms, it may be necessary to consult a healthcare professional. Ensure they stay hydrated and offer small amounts of fluids or light snacks as tolerated. Balancing rest with occasional wakeful periods for hydration and comfort is essential.

How long is too long for a 2 year old to be sick?

If a 2-year-old is sick, it is generally concerning if symptoms persist for more than 2-3 days without improvement. Common childhood illnesses, such as colds or mild infections, should start to show signs of improvement within this timeframe. If your child continues to exhibit symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, or irritability beyond this time, or if their condition worsens, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Additionally, if they show signs of dehydration, difficulty breathing, or unusual lethargy, you should consult a doctor promptly, regardless of how long they have been sick. Always trust your instincts as a parent regarding your child's health.

How to help a sick toddler sleep?

To help your sick toddler sleep, it's important to monitor their symptoms and seek medical advice if necessary. Ensure they’re getting enough fluid, and provide a comfortable sleep environment where the temperature is just right, it’s calm, quiet, and has good air flow. It’s never over-reacting to consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your toddler's health.

Should you wake a sick sleeping toddler?

When it comes to a sick sleeping toddler, you should check on them regularly but it is generally recommended not to wake them unless necessary. Adequate rest is so important for their recovery. However, adequate hydration is also absolutely necessary and they should be able to be woken for regular drinks over the day. If you notice they aren’t easy to wake, or have severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, signs of distress, or they’ve slept for an unusually long time, it is important to seek medical advice without delay. Trust your instincts.

What to do with a sick toddler?

When you have a sick toddler, it's important to monitor their symptoms and seek medical advice if needed. Ensure they get plenty of rest, offer fluids, provide a nutritious diet, and give them love and attention. Trust your instincts and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your toddler's health.

What to feed a sick toddler?

When choosing food for a sick toddler, focus on providing easy to digest and nourishing foods from all the different food groups. Offer small, frequent meals consisting of foods like soups, broths, mashed fruits, yoghurt, porridge, and soft vegetables.  Some toddlers may be more sensitive to spicy, greasy, or heavy foods that may further upset their stomach, so avoid these. Ensure they stay hydrated, by offering fluids like water, or oral rehydration solutions that have been recommended by a healthcare professional.  There are also toddler milk drinks specially designed for when energy and nutrient intakes may not be adequate.