SERVICES
MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE ILLNESS
As your paediatrician, Dr Mason is well-equipped to diagnose, treat and manage all acute and chronic illnesses that may plague your little one, from infancy through to middle childhood.
Since their immune systems aren't yet as strong as ours, a minor illness can become an acute infection very quickly, so it is important to watch for any problematic symptoms and see your paediatrician if they worsen. Any serious symptoms, worsening and not resolving themselves may be an indication of a serious infection.
Signs and symptoms to look out for may include:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Itchy eyes
- Yellow-green discharge from the eye
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Earache
- Sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Hoarse voice
- Oral sores
These could be symptoms of a severe sinus infection, conjunctivitis, ear infection (otitis media/external), laryngitis, hay fever, rhinitis, asthma or tonsillitis.
- A wet cough with phlegm
- A dry cough or "bark"
- A runny or stuffy nose
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
- Fever or chills
- Aches & pains
- Earache
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain or tightness
These symptoms may be a sign of a minor cold but may also be something more acute such as an asthma attack, the flu or a chest infection like croup, pneumonia, bronchitis or bronchiolitis.
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal cramps or pain
- Fever
- Constipation
- Difficulty or pain when passing stool
- Nausea
These could be an indication of a serious food allergy, lactose or gluten intolerance, reflux, feeding problem or the stomach flu.
- Red rash or hives
- Swelling of the skin
- Blistering sores
- Scabbed rash
- Scaly skin
- Oozing sores
- Itchy patches
- Suspicious lesions or moles
These may be diagnosed as a simple nappy rash, cradle cap or acne, but may also be an acute issue such as skin allergies, infectious skin conditions and eczema.
With her attention to detail and your child's best interests in mind, Dr Mason will be able to evaluate your child and provide the best possible care in cases of acute illness or infection, with referral to appropriate sub-specialists when necessary.
