When to call your pediatrician

Parents know it can sometimes be difficult to tell just how sick a child is. That often leads to some uncertainty over when and if you should call the doctor.

According to pediatricians, fever is the first red flag. If your child has a high fever, they say it's best to pick up the phone. And if the fever seems to be lasting a long time, it could be a sign of a bacterial infection in the bloodstream, or even pneumonia or meningitis.

Stomach aches can also be tough to diagnose at home. Doctors say if you've ruled out constipation, severe abdominal pain can be a sign of a blockage, or possibly appendicitis.

Trouble breating could indicate your child has asthma, or an asthma-related episode.

Overall, doctors say if something doesn't seem right, err on the side of caution and call your pediatrician.