Irritability

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Central nervous system

Inconsolability

Attempt to soothe the child with usual measures -- rocking, cuddling, or whatever the child normally finds soothing. If the child cannot be consoled, consult your health care provider. Observe the child for other symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, rash, or any other unusual finding.

If your child is irritable or inconsolable with or without other symptoms, consult your health care provider.

The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed. Tests may include a complete blood count, electrolyte analysis, and blood culture.

Medical history questions documenting irritability in detail may include:

• How irritable is the child?
• Does the irritability persist?
• How does the child normally eat (how often, how much)?
• How is the child eating now?
• How often does the child normally have bowel movements?
• Does the child have problems with diarrhea or constipation?
• What other symptoms are also present?
• Is there any fever, confusion, or pain?

After seeing your health care provider:

You may want to add a diagnosis related to irritability to your personal medical record.

Review Date: 12/01/2005
Reviewed By: Daniel Rauch, MD, FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.