As a new parent, it’s natural to worry about your baby’s health. Babies can’t tell us when something is wrong, so it’s important to recognise the signs that may indicate illness. While some symptoms are mild and will pass on their own, others may require urgent medical attention. Knowing what to watch for can help you act quickly and get your baby the care they need.

Common warning signs of illness in babies

1. High fever

• A fever itself isn’t always dangerous, but in newborns, even a slight rise in temperature can indicate a serious infection.
• Seek urgent medical advice through 111 or A&E if:
  • Your baby is under 3 months and has a temperature of 38°C or higher.
  • Your baby is between 3-6 months old and has a fever of 39°C or higher.
  • The fever is accompanied by lethargy, poor feeding, or difficulty breathing.

2. Difficulty breathing

• Babies breathe faster than adults, but labored breathing or distress signals a problem.
• Signs of trouble:
  • Flaring nostrils
  • Chest retractions (skin pulling in between ribs)
  • Wheezing, grunting, or fast breathing (more than 60 breaths per minute)
  • A bluish tint around the lips or fingertips
• Seek immediate medical attention if your baby is struggling to breathe.

3. Poor feeding or dehydration

• Babies need frequent feeds, so a sudden loss of appetite could be a sign of illness.
• Signs of dehydration include:
  • Fewer than 6 wet nappies in 24 hours
  • Sunken soft spot (fontanelle) on the head
  • Dry lips and mouth
  • No tears when crying
• If your baby is refusing feeds or showing dehydration signs, call a doctor.

4. Unusual crying or lethargy

• Babies cry a lot, but certain cries can signal distress.
• Worrying signs:
  • A high-pitched, weak, or continuous cry
  • Extreme drowsiness or difficulty waking your baby
  • Floppy limbs or unusual limpness
• If your baby is excessively irritable or too sleepy to respond, seek medical help.

5. Vomiting & diarrhea

• Occasional spit-up is normal, but persistent vomiting or diarrhea can lead to dehydration.
• Red flags:
  • Green or yellow vomit (could indicate a blockage)
  • Vomiting with fever or bloating
  • Bloody diarrhea or black, tar-like stools (after the initial few days of meconium, a tar like substance in newborn stools, passes it should not be seen again). 
• If vomiting is frequent or severe, or any of these red flags are seen, consult 111.

6. Skin rashes or changes

• Rashes are common in babies, but some require medical attention.
• When to worry:
  • A rash that doesn’t fade when pressed (possible sign of meningitis—seek emergency care!)
  • Large blisters, peeling skin, or painful sores
  • A rapidly spreading or swollen rash

7. Cold hands & feet with pale or blue skin

• If baby has cold hands, feet or nose this is very common as their circulation is not as good as ours but if skin becomes pale or blue this could signal a more severe health warning. The best way to test a baby’s temperature is to place your hands on baby’s chest or back as this will give you baby’s core body temperature and guide your concerns on whether baby is too cold or hot. 
• Cold extremities in a warm room or bluish skin could indicate circulation issues or oxygen deprivation.
• If your baby’s lips, tongue, or skin turn blue or gray, call emergency services immediately.

When to call a doctor vs. when to seek emergency care

Call a Doctor If:

✔ Mild fever that lasts more than 3 days

✔ Decreased feeding but still having some wet nappies

✔ Mild cold symptoms with no breathing difficulties. 

✔ Minor rashes that aren’t spreading rapidly

Seek Emergency Care If:

🚨 Fever over 38°C in a baby under 3 months

🚨 Seizures, loss of consciousness, or unresponsiveness

🚨 Severe breathing difficulties, bluish lips, or choking

🚨 Vomiting blood or persistent vomiting with dehydration signs

🚨 Rash that doesn’t fade when pressed (possible meningitis sign)

Trust Your Instincts

As a parent, you know your baby best. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to call a doctor or seek help. It’s always better to check and be reassured than to wait and risk a serious condition worsening.

Your baby’s health is important, and acting quickly when something seems wrong can make all the difference. Remember, you’re not alone—health professionals are there to help you through every concern and question you may have!

This content is reviewed and approved by our midwife Lydia.