When to Call the Doctor
Content reviewed against published AAP, CDC guidelines
Last reviewed:
Not sure if your baby's symptoms need medical attention? Use this guide to understand when to manage at home, when to call your pediatrician, and when to go to the emergency room.
Key takeaways
- Any fever of 100.4 degrees F or higher in a baby under 3 months requires an immediate call to the doctor or ER visit.
- Emergency signs like difficulty breathing, blue/gray skin, unresponsiveness, or prolonged seizures always warrant calling 911.
- Fever thresholds for calling the doctor change by age -- know the right threshold for your baby.
- Trust your instincts: if something feels wrong, it is always okay to call your pediatrician.
- Use the symptom checkers on this site for step-by-step guidance on common concerns.
Use our symptom checkers
Answer a few quick questions about what your baby is experiencing and get clear, evidence-based guidance on what to do next.
Is this fever something to worry about?
Should I worry about vomiting or diarrhea?
Is this rash something to worry about?
Is my baby's breathing normal?
My baby won't stop crying - is something wrong?
Is this diarrhea something to worry about?
Is this constipation something to worry about?
Is this congestion something to worry about?
Is this ear pain something to worry about?
Is this eye discharge something to worry about?
Is this jaundice something to worry about?
General emergency signs
Regardless of your baby's specific symptoms, the following signs always warrant immediate medical attention. Call 911 or go to the emergency room right away if your baby:
- Is not breathing or is struggling to breathe
- Has blue or gray lips, tongue, or skin
- Is unresponsive or cannot be woken up
- Is having a seizure lasting longer than 5 minutes
- Shows signs of dehydration in a newborn (no wet diapers for 6+ hours, no tears when crying, sunken soft spot)
Age-specific fever thresholds
How you respond to a fever depends on your baby's age. Use these guidelines to know when to call:
- Under 3 months
Any fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher — call your doctor or go to the ER immediately. Do not wait.
- 3 to 6 months
Fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher — call your pediatrician.
- 6 to 24 months
Fever of 102°F (38.9°C) or higher, or any fever lasting more than 1 day — call your pediatrician.
- Over 24 months
Fever of 104°F (40°C) or higher, or any fever lasting more than 3 days — call your pediatrician.
Trust your instincts
You know your baby better than anyone. If something feels wrong, even if you cannot pinpoint exactly what it is, it is always okay to call your pediatrician. Doctors expect these calls — that is what they are there for. You will never be judged for being cautious when it comes to your child's health.
When in doubt, call. A quick phone call can save you hours of worry and ensure your baby gets the care they need.
Frequently asked questions
When should I call 911 for my baby?
What temperature is a fever in a baby under 3 months?
Should I call my pediatrician at night or wait until morning?
What are signs of dehydration in a baby?
Is it okay to call the pediatrician even if I am not sure something is wrong?
Bottom line
When in doubt, call your pediatrician. They would rather hear from you and reassure you than have you worry alone. For true emergencies — difficulty breathing, unresponsiveness, blue or gray skin, or prolonged seizures — call 911 immediately.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
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