When your child is complaining of a stomachache or sore throat, it can be hard to know if they should stay home from school. Are they getting sick, or are they just nervous about an upcoming exam? Review the following symptoms that indicate your child should visit a pediatrician to help you make the right call.

What Symptoms Indicate Your Child Should Stay Home?

1. Vomiting & Diarrhea

If your child is vomiting, it’s a clear sign they shouldn’t go to school. Throwing up can be a symptom of the flu, food poisoning, or other potentially serious illness. Diarrhea may also be related to these conditions, and it's a difficult problem to control or manage in school. If vomiting or diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours or becomes violent, see your pediatrician right away. While you shouldn’t panic at the first sign of either, use your intuition if your child seems unwell.

2. Fever

A fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit could be a sign of infection, cold, or flu. High temperatures may indicate that the condition is contagious, so it’s best not to expose the rest of the class. Your child should be fever-free for 24 hours before you send them back to school. Borderline temperatures that are accompanied by other symptoms are also signs to stay home, even if the thermometer isn’t quite over 100. If your child has a very high or prolonged fever, take them to a pediatrician as soon as possible.

3. Respiratory Issues

If your child has difficulty breathing or a persistent, chesty cough, keep them in bed and take a trip to the doctor if symptoms don’t improve. A bad cough will be distracting for your child and the rest of the classroom, and most coughs keep kids up at night, so they’ll be exhausted as well. As with any symptom, it’s wise to get a doctor’s opinion if things get more serious or are prolonged. Every cold doesn’t warrant a visit to the clinic, but as a parent, you can tell when your child needs help.

For complete pediatric care in Chester, SC, choose Mante Pediatrics. This family-centered practice offers comprehensive care for infants, children, and teens. Same-day appointments and walk-ins are available for those last-minute illnesses and injuries, and this kid-friendly staff aims to make their clinic a place kids like to go. Call (803) 385-2075 for assistance or to make an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about the practice.