Understanding Pediatric Sick Visit
A Pediatric Sick Visit is when you bring your child to see a doctor because they are unwell and you are worried about their health. Whether your child has a fever, a cough, stomach pain, or just does not seem like themselves, our doctors are here to help find out what is wrong and get your child feeling better. You do not need to wait until things get very serious — if something feels wrong, it is always okay to come in.
Common Symptoms / Concerns for Pediatric Sick Visit
When to Seek Professional Care
Book an evaluation with a healthcare provider immediately if you experience or present with:
- Child has a fever above 39°C that does not come down after giving paracetamol
- Child is having difficulty breathing, breathing very fast, or their chest is pulling in with each breath
- Child is not able to drink any fluids and shows signs of dehydration such as dry mouth or no tears when crying
- Child has had a seizure or is shaking uncontrollably
- Child is unusually drowsy, difficult to wake up, or not responding normally
- Child has a severe rash that is spreading quickly or looks like bruising under the skin
- Baby under 3 months old has any fever at all
- Child has been vomiting or has diarrhoea for more than 24 hours without improvement
What to Expect During Your Medical Consultation
When you arrive, the doctor or nurse will ask you questions about your child's symptoms — how long they have been unwell, what you have noticed at home, and whether they have any other health conditions. The doctor will then examine your child, checking things like their temperature, throat, ears, chest, and belly to understand what may be causing the problem. Depending on what they find, they may prescribe medicine, ask for a simple test such as a malaria test or blood check, and give you clear advice on how to care for your child at home.
Medical Divisions Vetted for Pediatric Sick Visit
Our platform supports multiple clinical specialties capable of providing consultations for this visit type:
Children's Doctor
Clinicians available for pediatric sick visit consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I take my child to the doctor instead of treating at home?
Take your child to the doctor right away if they have a very high fever (above 38.5°C), difficulty breathing, are not eating or drinking, have a rash, or seem unusually weak or confused. For mild symptoms like a small cold or slight cough, you can monitor your child at home and give them plenty of fluids and rest. If symptoms do not improve after two days, or if you are unsure, it is always safer to visit a health facility. Trust your instincts — you know your child best.
What are the most common illnesses that affect children in Ghana and West Africa?
Children in Ghana and West Africa commonly get malaria, diarrhoea, respiratory infections (like cough and cold), typhoid fever, and skin infections. Many of these illnesses are treatable when caught early, so it is important to seek care quickly when your child is unwell. Keeping your child's vaccinations up to date and practising good hygiene at home can help prevent many of these conditions. Your local clinic or health worker can advise you on what is common in your area.
What medicines are safe to give my child at home when they are sick?
Paracetamol (such as Panadol) is safe to give children to reduce fever and relieve pain — always follow the dosage instructions on the pack based on your child's weight or age. Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) are very helpful if your child has diarrhoea or is vomiting, to prevent dehydration. Do not give your child adult medicines, aspirin, or antibiotics unless a doctor has prescribed them. When in doubt about any medicine, ask a pharmacist or health worker before giving it to your child.
My child has a fever — could it be malaria, and what should I do?
In Ghana and West Africa, fever in a child should always be taken seriously because malaria is very common in the region. If your child has a fever, especially with chills, sweating, headache, or vomiting, visit a health facility as soon as possible so they can be tested for malaria. Do not wait to see if the fever goes away on its own, as malaria can become dangerous quickly in young children. While you are on your way to the clinic, you can give paracetamol to help bring the fever down.
How can I protect my child from getting sick?
Make sure your child sleeps under an insecticide-treated mosquito net every night to protect against malaria. Wash your hands and your child's hands regularly with soap and water, especially before meals and after using the toilet, to prevent diarrhoea and infections. Keep your child's vaccinations up to date by visiting your nearest health centre for routine immunisations. Giving your child clean drinking water, nutritious food, and enough rest also helps build a strong immune system.
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Our guides are reviewed by internal medical advisory boards to uphold patient guidelines and reference certified therapies.
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