Answers to Common Medical Questions

If you have having a life-threatening situation, go to the nearest Emergency Room (ER) or call 9-1-1

The information below is meant to provide general information on common medical questions and should not be considered medical advice for your specific situation, nor is it a substitute for advice from your own physician.  Patients and parents must always use their own judgment in deciding when to seek medical care.

Allergic Reaction

May be mild or serious.  If symptoms of tight or closing throat, face swelling, or trouble breathing, go the the nearest ER or call 9-1-1.

If mild symptoms such as rash or hives, it may be appropriate to monitor.  Diphenhydramine (brand name Benadryl) can be used in children 2 years old and older and in adults.  Follow dosing instructions on packaging.

Breathing problems

May appear as shortness of breath, struggling to breathe, wheezing, or rapid breathing.  This issue is potentially serious and should be evaluated promptly.

Community Resources, Texas 2-1-1

Call 2-1-1 (877-541-7905).  Get assistance finding food or housing, child care, crisis counseling, or substance abuse treatment.  

Fever

Fever is very common with infections, especially in children.  Fevers to 104 or 105 degrees F are common in children, and at this level are not dangerous by themselves.  However, depending on other symptoms or the age of the patient, prompt evaluation may be needed.

Fever in babies under 1 month old is potential serious and should be evaluated promptly.

For older babies and children and adults, if there is fever but the person is able to eat or drink, is not having shortness of breath (trouble breathing) and there are no other severe symptoms, it may be appropriate to just monitor symptoms for a few days.  You must always use judgment, and if there is any concern, contact your doctor or get the person seen at an appropriate medical facility.

Teething does not typically cause fever.

Acetaminophen can be used in all ages to help lower fever.  Follow instructions on packaging, but usual dose is 10 milligrams/kilogram of body weight every 4-6 hours.

Ibuprofen can be used to help lower fever in children 6 months old or older and in adults.  Follow instructions on packaging, but usual dose is 10 milligrams/kilogram of body weight every 6 hours.

Poison Control

phone:  1-800-222-1222.  This national phone hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  A great resource if your child, or anyone, has possibly consumed or otherwise been exposed to something poisonous.  You can also get immediate help at this site:   https://triage.webpoisoncontrol.org/