If you have young children, you already know that coughs, fevers, and runny noses can feel like a regular part of family life. Most common child health issues are mild and tend to pass on their own with rest and fluids. But as a parent, it can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference between something minor and something that needs medical attention.
Understanding common childhood illnesses and knowing when to see a GP can help you feel more confident about caring for your little one. In this article, we look at everyday child health issues Australian families deal with and explain when it may be time to visit your local child health clinic for an appointment.
Why Are Children Sick So Often?
Young children are still building their immune systems, which means they are more likely to pick up infections, especially in childcare, preschool, and school settings. According to Healthdirect Australia, germs spread quickly among young children because they play closely together and often touch the same surfaces, toys, and equipment.
It is not unusual for a young child to have several viral infections each year. While this can be exhausting for families, most of these illnesses help the immune system learn and strengthen over time.
Common Childhood Illnesses to Be Aware Of
Fever in Children
A fever is one of the most common signs that your child’s body is fighting an infection. A fever is usually when a temperature is over 38°C. Most fevers are caused by viral infections and will pass within a few days.
However, you should see your GP if your child’s fever lasts more than two days, if they are under three months old with any fever, or if they seem unusually drowsy or unwell.
Coughs and Colds (Viral Infections)
Coughs and colds are also very common in children, particularly during the cooler months. Symptoms may include a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, a mild cough, and a sore throat. Most colds are caused by viruses, which means antibiotics will not help.
Rest, fluids, and comfort are usually all that is needed. However, if your child’s cough persists for more than a few weeks, is accompanied by wheezing, or they are having difficulty breathing, it is important to see a child health doctor for further assessment.
Ear Infections (Otitis Media)
Ear infections are a frequent childhood illness, especially in children under five. Your child may pull at their ear, seem irritable, have trouble sleeping, or develop a fever. Some ear infections clear up on their own, while others may need treatment.
If your child seems to be in pain or the symptoms last more than a day or two, booking an appointment with your GP can help determine whether any treatment is needed.
Gastro (Vomiting and Diarrhoea)
Gastroenteritis, commonly known as gastro, causes vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever. It is very common in young children and usually resolves within a few days.
The key concern with gastro is dehydration. Signs of dehydration in kids may include fewer wet nappies, a dry mouth and tongue, sunken eyes, and low energy.
If your child is unable to keep fluids down for several hours or shows signs of dehydration, see your GP promptly. Babies under six months with vomiting or diarrhoea should always be reviewed by a doctor.
Sore Throat and Tonsillitis
A sore throat is often part of a cold or viral infection and usually resolves without treatment. However, tonsillitis, which causes swollen, red tonsils, difficulty swallowing, and sometimes white spots on the tonsils, may occasionally require medical attention.
If your child has a sore throat lasting more than a couple of days, a high fever, or difficulty eating or drinking, a GP visit can help rule out a bacterial infection that may need treatment.
Childhood Rashes (Viral Rash, Eczema)
Rashes are common in children and can have many causes, from viral infections to eczema and allergic reactions. Many childhood rashes are harmless and clear up on their own.
However, you should see a doctor if the rash does not fade when pressed, is spreading quickly, or is accompanied by fever, and your child seems unwell. These may be signs of a more serious condition that requires prompt attention.
Asthma Symptoms in Children and Wheezing
Wheezing, persistent coughing, particularly at night, and shortness of breath can be signs of asthma in children. According to Healthdirect Australia, about one in 10 children in Australia has asthma.
If your child is wheezing regularly or their breathing seems laboured, speaking with your GP is an important first step. Early assessment can help with management and reduce the impact on your child’s daily life.
When Should You Take Your Child to a GP?
As a general guide, consider booking a GP appointment if your child has:
- A fever lasting more than two days or is under three months old with any fever
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea, or signs of dehydration
- A cough that does not improve after two to three weeks
- Ear pain, especially with fever or discharge
- A rash that does not fade when pressed or is spreading quickly
- Breathing difficulties or wheezing
- Symptoms that seem to be getting worse rather than better
You know your child best. If something does not feel right, it is always worth having them checked by a child doctor.
How Your GP Can Help
A child doctor can assess your child’s symptoms, provide a diagnosis, and recommend appropriate care. For many childhood illnesses, this may simply mean reassurance and guidance on managing symptoms at home. In other cases, your GP may recommend treatment, further tests, or a referral to a specialist such as a paediatrician.
At Bomaderry Creek Health Centre, our GPs provide children’s healthcare in a family-friendly setting. As a child health clinic in Bomaderry, we support families with everything from managing common childhood illnesses and vaccinations to developmental checks and ongoing care. All Medicare-eligible consultations are also bulk billed, so there is no out-of-pocket cost for your visit.
If your child is unwell or you would like to discuss any health concerns with a child doctor, book a consultation with our team or call us on (02) 4413 2325.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common childhood illnesses?
Some of the most common childhood illnesses include coughs and colds, fever, ear infections, gastroenteritis (gastro), sore throats, childhood rashes, and asthma. Most of these are caused by viral infections and tend to resolve with rest and fluids.
When should I take my child to the GP for a fever?
You should see a GP if your child’s fever lasts more than two days, if your baby is under three months old with any fever, or if your child seems unusually drowsy, is not drinking fluids, or their symptoms are getting worse.
How can I tell if my child is dehydrated?
Signs of dehydration in children may include fewer wet nappies, a dry mouth and tongue, sunken eyes, fewer tears when crying, and low energy. If your child shows signs of dehydration, particularly with ongoing vomiting or diarrhoea, see your GP as soon as possible.
Can a GP help with childhood asthma?
Yes. A GP can assess your child for asthma symptoms such as persistent coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. If asthma is suspected, your GP can help with diagnosis, develop a management plan, and provide ongoing monitoring.
Are children’s GP visits bulk billed at Bomaderry Creek Health Centre?
Yes. All Medicare-eligible GP consultations at Bomaderry Creek Health Centre are bulk billed, which means there is no out-of-pocket cost for your child’s appointment.
Should I go to the GP or the emergency department?
For most common childhood illnesses, a GP visit is the appropriate first step. However, if your child is having difficulty breathing, is extremely drowsy or unresponsive, has a rash that does not fade when pressed, or has had a seizure, call triple zero (000) or go to your nearest emergency department.
Where can I find a child health clinic in Bomaderry?
Bomaderry Creek Health Centre provides children’s healthcare for infants, children, and teenagers. Our GPs offer bulk-billed consultations for a wide range of child health issues, from common childhood illnesses to developmental checks and vaccinations. You can book online or call (02) 4413 2325.