A South Carolina Parent’s Guide to Deciding When It’s Time to Seek Medical Care
Every parent has been there: your child wakes up flushed and cranky, maybe with a cough, a runny nose, or a slight fever. You run through the mental checklist—what did they eat, who were they around, are they teething? At what point should concern turn into a doctor’s visit?
At Novo Wellness, with offices in Aiken and Hilton Head Island, we understand how stressful it can be to make decisions about your child’s health. South Carolina families trust us for clear, compassionate care when it matters most. And while many childhood illnesses can be treated at home, there are certain signs that mean it's time to bring your little one in for a professional evaluation.
“We often remind parents that they know their child best. If something feels ‘off,’ we’re here to listen, evaluate, and support your decision-making with sound medical guidance.”
— Clinical team at Novo Wellness
Children get sick more often than adults—especially in their early years. Their immune systems are still developing, and exposure to other kids at school or daycare increases the chances of coming down with something.
Common illnesses that don’t always require a doctor’s visit include:
Mild cold or upper respiratory infection
Low-grade fever (under 100.4°F)
Occasional vomiting or diarrhea without dehydration
Runny nose or congestion
Minor cough
In most of these cases, rest, fluids, and supportive care at home will do the trick.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, most viral infections resolve within 7 to 10 days and don’t need antibiotics (AAP, 2021).
While many illnesses are minor, there are warning signs that should prompt you to schedule a visit with your child’s provider at Novo Wellness. Look for:
Infants under 3 months: Any fever over 100.4°F
Children 3–12 months: Fever over 102°F
Any child: Fever lasting more than 3 days
High fevers can signal a bacterial infection, ear infection, or even early signs of pneumonia, which may require antibiotics or further testing.
If your child isn’t producing tears, has dry lips and mouth, sunken eyes, or hasn’t had a wet diaper in over 6 hours (for infants) or hasn’t urinated in over 8 hours (for older kids), dehydration could be developing.
Wheezing, rapid breathing, retractions (chest caving in between ribs), or any sign that your child is struggling to breathe needs immediate medical attention. These could be signs of asthma, RSV, or other respiratory conditions.
While many rashes in children are viral and harmless, some may indicate allergic reactions or illnesses like strep, hand-foot-and-mouth, or even meningitis. A widespread rash with fever, bruising, or purplish spots should always be checked out.
Persistent complaints of ear pain or a sore throat (especially with difficulty swallowing or drooling) may require evaluation for strep throat, ear infection, or tonsillitis.
If your child is unusually lethargic, unresponsive, confused, or irritable beyond what’s typical during an illness, it’s time for a visit.
“Parents sometimes hesitate to ‘overreact,’ but we’d much rather evaluate a child early and offer peace of mind than wait too long,” our Hilton Head care team explains.
When your child is sick, supportive care makes all the difference. Here are some simple, doctor-recommended tips:
Encourage fluids (water, diluted juice, breastmilk, or oral rehydration solution)
Use a cool-mist humidifier for congestion
Offer small, frequent meals as tolerated
Let them rest as much as needed—extra sleep helps recovery
Use fever reducers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) as directed for age and weight
Avoid giving cold medicine to children under age 4, and always check with your provider before starting any new over-the-counter medication.
We know it’s hard to wait when your child isn’t feeling well. That’s why Novo Wellness offers same-day pediatric sick visits at both our Aiken and Hilton Head Island clinics. Whether it’s a concern over fever, breathing, rashes, or simply wanting peace of mind, we’re here to help with personalized care and a friendly, professional team.
“My toddler had a fever that wouldn’t break, and I was so relieved to get a same-day appointment at Novo. The provider took time to explain everything and reassured me—we were in good hands.”
— Patient parent, Aiken
We’ll let you know if further care is needed, including labs, imaging, or a referral to a pediatric specialist. And when it’s safe to manage at home, we’ll guide you with clear, easy-to-follow advice.
South Carolina parents are some of the most hands-on, intuitive caregivers we’ve met. Trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Novo Wellness, we’re proud to serve our community with thoughtful, evidence-based care for children and families.
From colds to coughs, and fevers to first steps, we’re honored to be a part of your child’s healthcare team.
Novo Wellness – Aiken, SC
