Parents are usually good at noticing when something is wrong with their baby. However, many parents worry that they won't recognise the signs that their baby is unwell.
Symptoms that require emergency medical attention
You should dial 999 immediately if you find your baby:
- is not breathing,
- is unconscious,
- seems breathless, or is breathing much faster than usual,
- looks very pale, or their skin is blue or dusky around the lips,
- is having a convulsion (fit),
- has cold hands or feet, but also has a fever (a temperature over 38C or 100.4F),
- feels floppy or limp (perhaps when cuddled), or
- has a raised, tense or bulging soft spot (fontanelle) on their head.
If your baby displays any of the above symptoms, it is very important that you dial 999 straight away. This is because these symptoms are often a sign that your baby requires urgent medical attention. If you seek attention promptly, then your baby can receive any necessary treatment as soon as possible.