Recognising Common Baby Illnesses and When to Seek Help

Getting to Know Your Baby's Normal

Every baby has their own rhythm. Before you can spot illness, you need to know what is usual for your little one. How many feeds do they take in a day? How many wet nappies do they produce? What is their typical mood, sleep pattern and crying style? A baby who is suddenly lethargic, feeding poorly or has fewer wet nappies is telling you something important. Trust that instinct. Your health visitor can help you understand what is normal in the early weeks, especially if you are a first-time parent.

Common Infant Illnesses and Their Tell-Tale Signs

Babies pick up bugs easily, particularly once they start mixing with others. Here are the usual suspects and what to look for.

• Colds and coughs: a runny nose, sneezing and a mild cough. Usually clear up on their own within a week or two.
• Bronchiolitis: a viral chest infection common in winter. It starts like a cold, then causes wheezing, rapid breathing and difficulty feeding. See your GP if you are concerned.
• Gastroenteritis: vomiting and diarrhoea. The main risk is dehydration. Watch for fewer wet nappies, sunken eyes and a dry mouth.
• Ear infections: pulling at ears, crying when lying down, fever and irritability. Often follow a cold.
• Croup: a barking cough like a seal and noisy breathing. Worse at night. Sit your baby upright and stay calm; call 111 if breathing becomes laboured.
• Hand, foot and mouth disease: sores in the mouth and a rash on hands and feet. Usually mild. Keep your baby hydrated.
• Chickenpox: itchy spots that become blisters then scabs. Fever and tiredness often come first.

Fever: What the Numbers Mean

A fever is a temperature of 38C or higher. But age matters enormously. If your baby is under 3 months old and has a temperature of 38C or above, contact your GP or NHS 111 straight away, even if they seem well. For babies aged 3 to 6 months, a temperature of 39C or higher needs urgent attention. Older babies can often be monitored at home if they are otherwise responsive and drinking well. Use a digital thermometer under the arm for the most reliable reading. Always consider how your baby looks and behaves, not just the number on the screen.

Red Flags: When to Seek Urgent Help

Some signs mean you should call 999 or go straight to A&E. Do not wait for a GP appointment.

• Breathing difficulties: grunting, nostril flaring, ribs pulling in, or long pauses in breathing.
• Colour changes: blue or grey lips, tongue or skin.
• Unresponsiveness: your baby is floppy, hard to wake, or has a weak, high-pitched cry.
• Rash that does not fade: press a clear glass against it; if spots stay visible, it could be meningitis. Call 999.
• Signs of dehydration: no wet nappies for 8 hours, a sunken fontanelle (soft spot), dry mouth, or few tears when crying.
• Persistent vomiting or green vomit: could signal a blockage.
• Seizure or fit: call 999 immediately.

Caring for Your Baby at Home

For minor illnesses, the main job is comfort and fluids. Offer extra feeds if breastfeeding or formula feeding. For babies over 2 months, infant paracetamol can ease fever and pain; ibuprofen is suitable from 3 months and over 5kg. Always follow the dosage on the bottle and use the syringe provided. Do not give cough or cold medicines to babies under 6 years. Keep the room comfortably warm but not hot, and dress your baby in light layers. Saline drops can help a blocked nose. If your baby is struggling to feed due to congestion, try feeding in a more upright position. Most importantly, rest when you can and accept help from family and friends.

When to Contact NHS 111, Your GP or Health Visitor

If you are worried but it is not an emergency, call NHS 111 for advice. They can arrange out-of-hours appointments or tell you what to look for. Your GP can see your baby for persistent symptoms, ear checks, or if you simply need reassurance. Your health visitor is a great source of support for feeding, sleep and development questions. Remember, you know your baby best. If something feels wrong, speak up. It is always better to ask than to wait. Trust your instincts – they are there for a reason.