Baylor Health Care System
 
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P R S T U V W Y

Irritability

Alternative Names

Inconsolability

Home Care

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.

Watch the child for other symptoms such as:

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your health care provider if your child is irritable or inconsolable, with or without other symptoms.

The health care provider will take a medical history and perform a physical examination. Tests may include:

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 does the child have?
  • 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: 11/12/2007
Reviewed By: Rachel A. Lewis, M.D., F.A.A.P., Columbia University Pediatric Faculty Practice, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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