Visual Symptom Guide

A simple guide to help parents learn about signs in young children. Not medical advice.

Not sure what a symptom looks like? Start here.
Educational only — always consult a doctor
Some signs may be more serious and seeking urgent medical care may be appropriate, especially if you are concerned. This tool is for learning only — always consult a medical professional.
Breathing / Chest
  • Chest Retractions
  • Nasal Flaring
  • Grunting with BreathingSoon
  • Noisy Breathing (Stridor)Soon
  • WheezingSoon
  • Breathing PausesSoon
  • Rapid BreathingSoon
  • Cough (Barky / Croup)Soon
Fever / Behavior
  • Fever in Infants Under 3 Months
  • Extreme Sleepiness (Hard to Wake)Soon
  • Seizure / Staring EpisodesSoon
  • Inconsolable CryingSoon
  • Sudden Behavior ChangeSoon
  • Hard to WakeSoon
  • Arched Back in InfantsSoon
  • UnresponsivenessSoon
Hydration
  • Sunken EyesSoon
  • Dry Lips and MouthSoon
  • No Tears When CryingSoon
  • Sunken Soft SpotSoon
  • Dark or Infrequent UrineSoon
  • Fewer Wet DiapersSoon
  • Skin Tenting (Poor Skin Turgor)Soon
Skin
  • Blue Lips or Fingertips
  • Petechiae (Pinpoint Spots)Soon
  • Pale or Mottled SkinSoon
  • Jaundice (Yellow Skin)Soon
  • Spreading RashSoon
  • HivesSoon
  • Swollen Face or LipsSoon
  • Red Streaks on SkinSoon
  • Skin Very Hot or Very ColdSoon
Dr. Ebenezer Adebiyi

About the Author

Dr. Ebenezer Adebiyi, MD, MPH, FAAP  ·  Pediatrician & Parent

"This guide supports recognition and preparation. It is not medical advice. Contact your pediatrician with any concerns."

Visual Reference
What Parents May See
    Why This May Matter
      This guide does not determine when it is safe to stay home.
      What To Watch For

      Explore Related Signs
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      For educational use only. This guide does not diagnose or replace medical care. This notice appears on every page of the download.
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      Reviewed by Ebenezer Adebiyi, MD, MPH, FAAP — for educational purposes only.