What To Do When Your Toddler Won't Wake Up But Is Breathing

Introduction

As a parent, it can be a scary situation when your toddler won’t wake up but is breathing. It’s important to stay calm and take action to ensure your child’s safety. In this article, we’ll explore the possible reasons why your toddler won’t wake up and what you can do to help.

Reasons Why Your Toddler Won’t Wake Up

There are several reasons why your toddler may not be waking up, including:

1. Sleep Disorders

Sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and night terrors can cause your toddler to have difficulty waking up. If you suspect your child has a sleep disorder, it’s important to speak with your pediatrician to discuss treatment options.

2. Medications

Certain medications, such as allergy or cold medicine, can cause drowsiness and make it difficult for your toddler to wake up. Always follow the dosage instructions and consult with your pediatrician before giving your child any medication.

3. Illness

If your toddler is sick, they may be sleeping more than usual. This is their body’s way of fighting off the illness and getting the rest they need to recover. However, if your child is sleeping excessively or seems to be in a deep sleep, it’s important to speak with your pediatrician.

What to Do When Your Toddler Won’t Wake Up

If your toddler won’t wake up but is breathing, there are several things you can do to help:

1. Check Their Breathing

Make sure your child is breathing normally and not having any difficulty breathing. If you notice any signs of distress, such as wheezing or gasping for air, seek medical attention immediately.

2. Gently Wake Them Up

Try gently waking your child up by calling their name or softly touching their arm or leg. If they don’t wake up, try a little more force, such as gently shaking their shoulder.

3. Monitor Their Temperature

Check your child’s temperature to make sure they’re not experiencing a fever. If they have a fever, it’s important to monitor their symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary.

4. Make Them Comfortable

If your child won’t wake up but is breathing, make sure they’re comfortable. Adjust their position and make sure they’re not too hot or cold.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If your toddler won’t wake up but is breathing and you’ve tried to gently wake them up and make them comfortable, it’s important to seek medical attention. Call your pediatrician or take your child to the emergency room if:

1. Your Child Has a High Fever

If your child has a fever over 103 degrees Fahrenheit, seek medical attention immediately.

2. Your Child Is Having Difficulty Breathing

If your child is having difficulty breathing or has a wheezing sound when breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

3. Your Child Is Unresponsive

If your child is unresponsive and won’t wake up, seek medical attention immediately.

Conclusion

It can be a scary situation when your toddler won’t wake up but is breathing. However, it’s important to stay calm and take action to ensure your child’s safety. By following the tips in this article and seeking medical attention if necessary, you can help your child get the care they need.