Irritability

Alternative names:

inconsolability

Home care:

Attempt to soothe the child with usual measures (rocking, cuddling, or whatever the child usually finds soothing). Then, watch the child for other symptoms (fever, abdominal pain, vomiting, rash, or any other unusual finding).

Call your health care provider if:

• an irritable child has other symptoms.
• your child is frequently irritable, fussy, or cranky.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

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:

• quality
  • How severely irritable is the child?

• time pattern
  • Does the irritability persist?

• feeding habits
  • How does the child normally eat (how often, how much)?
  • How is the child eating now?

• bowel habits
  • How often does the child normally have bowel movements?
  • Does the child have problems with diarrhea or constipation?

• other
  • 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.