What to do if you think your baby is ill

It is important that before going home your baby is registered with your GP and that you have the Practice telephone number readily available.

Parents are often the best people to judge what is 'normal' for their baby. If your baby demonstrates behaviours that are not typical for him or if you are concerned that your baby is unwell, you should contact your Health Visitor or GP. Things to look out for are:

• high temperature (and you are sure it is not due to too many blankets or clothes)
• not wanting to feed or not finishing feeds as usual
• vomiting
• more irritable or unsettled than normal
• changes in breathing - quicker, more noisy or coughing.

If your baby:

• stops breathing or goes blue
• is not easily woken up
• seems vacant, dazed or unaware of what is happening around him
• shows any signs of bleeding
• has a convulsion (fit)

you need to urgently contact your GP or local Accident and Emergency department. If you think your baby is dangerously ill and you are concerned about waiting for your doctor, or the time it will take to get to your local Accident and Emergency department, dial 999 for an ambulance and explain the problem.