When to Call Us

When to Call Us

by | Nov 13, 2020 | Parenting, Infection Control | 0 comments

Happy Aloha Friday!

We’ve had a whirlwind week getting the finishing touches up in our office. We have to relocate a few pieces of furniture and hang a few pieces of art, but we’re almost ready for our grand opening!!

We’re still seeing patients, though, so if your child needs a physical exam, immunizations (we have flu shots!), or to come visit us for any other reason, please don’t hesitate to call us, text us, or e-mail us for an appointment!

We’re open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm and Saturdays from 8am to noon. We’re available for questions, appointment requests, medicine refills, or other non-urgent concerns via our SECURE texting app Klara. To get started, just text 808.431.3161. We’re also available by phone for urgent concerns after hours. Just call the office number 808.600.2180. Scan the barcode at the bottom of this newsletter with your phone to add our contact info! Maybe even add us to your favorites!
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We’re starting viral season.

There are a multitude of viruses that have a seasonal preference, and it’s well-known that the fall and winter season are rich with microbes that cause the common cold, bronchiolitis, viral rashes, and fevers.

While flu vaccine is the most well-known, there are hundreds more strains of lesser known viruses that also contribute to illness in kids (and their adults) this time of year, such as rhinovirus, parainfluenza virus, coronavirus (non-COVID-19 variety), and RSV.

If you haven’t already, please call us to schedule your child’s flu shot! We highly recommend taking this additional precaution every year, but especially during this global pandemic.

Common viral symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Runny nose or nasal congestion
  • Fussiness
  • Bodyaches
  • Headaches
  • Poor appetite and decreased intake
  • Coughing
  • Decreased energy, fatigue, more tired than usual
  • Rash (red spots or splotches all over the body)

It’s the WORST when your child is sick. You’d do anything to make them feel better and take that sad, droopy look in their eyes away. BUT, thankfully, our kids are tough, and usually with TLC, they’re back to their normal antics in no time.

You might be wondering, though, when it’s time to call your doctor for help.

The answer is: Anytime.

In general, if you’re worried, we’re worried too. You’re the world’s expert in your child, so if something doesn’t look right or feel right, we’re always here to help you figure out what to do, so call us!

But, more specifically, you should definitely call:

  • If your child is having any trouble breathing (hard, fast, labored breathing)
  • If your child is not drinking enough to stay hydrated
  • If your child is in pain and inconsolable
  • If your child is lethargic, listless (bad words to a pediatrician)

We can see you quickly in the office or connect via telehealth to figure out the next steps together.

Most viral infections last about 5 to 7 days, with symptoms peaking around day 3 or 4 (the worst, most miserable days). So, if it seems that things aren’t clearing up as expected by days 5-7, that would be another reason to call so we can make sure we’re dealing with a typical virus.

If it doesn’t seem urgent but you’d like some guidance, then you can text us through our secure texting app, Klara. If you aren’t already using Klara, you can start by texting us at 808.431.3161, or sign up through our website.

Because the symptoms of COVID-19 are very nonspecific and can look like general cold and flu symptoms, if you suspect COVID-19 infection or exposure, give us a call so we can evaluate your child’s risk and see if it’s necessary to order testing.

If your child is having symptoms and you’re not quite sure what’s going on, you can check out our new symptom checker on the website. This new tool will guide you through a series of questions that will help you explore your child’s symptoms and possible causes as well as give you appropriate advice.

How can I support my child through their cold?

So if your child is breathing ok, drinking ok (it’s ok if they’re not eating, even for a few days, as long as they’re hydrated), and not in pain, then it’s ok to continue supporting them at home until their symptoms improve.

It’s not always necessary to treat a fever. A fever is a sign that the immune system is activated and doing its job to fight the virus. It’s often best to let it do its job, and there’s research that shows it expedites the healing process. However, most kids feel TERRIBLE when they’re febrile, so if you have to, bringing down their fever is possible with cooling measures (cold cloths, cold drinks, cold environment) and medication.

Check out (and bookmark!) our dosing page for exactly how much Tylenol or Motrin your child needs! Remember, we don’t want to just treat a number … treat the fever ONLY if it’s causing discomfort.

Offer sips of fluids throughout the day to maintain hydration.

If congestion is making it hard to breathe, you can use steam (humidifier or a foggy bathroom), saline spray, and suction to help clear out their nasal passages.

Finally, offer tons and tons of extra love and affection. You’ll see that your normally wild child will be incredibly snuggly and clingy, and this is the time they need your loving and reassurance the most. Enjoy the extra hugs.

Office Update

Thank you so much for your patience and support.

We have a few more finishing touches to finalize in the office, but we’re close to being done. We plan on releasing more photos and a virtual tour ASAP so you can enjoy our new digs.

This week, we got so much aloha from patients seeing our space for the first time, and we just want to say a big mahalo for the flowers, sweet treats, and incredible thoughtfulness. Seeing you in our office is the best gift of all, and we’re so grateful that you choose our team to help take care of your family.

Peace out ’til next week!

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