It's sometimes difficult to know when to take your baby to the doctor, especially for new parents. Because your baby can't tell you when something hurts, it can be difficult to distinguish between a common problem of infancy and something more serious.

It's important to know what signs and symptoms may signal serious problems. Call for medical advice if your baby:

• Shows no interest in eating or is feeding poorly
• Has a deepening yellow skin color
• Has a fever
• Is persistently irritable and inconsolable
• Is vomiting forcefully
• Is lethargic or unusually difficult to arouse
• Has frequent diarrhea
• Has a dusky, purplish hue to the lips and tongue
• Seems to sweat excessively when eating or crying
• Seems to have difficulty in breathing
• Has pale, light-colored stools that are almost white

It's also important to call for medical care immediately if your baby shows signs of choking. A choking baby can't make any sounds. Your baby's face will turn bright red, then blue.

As a general rule, trust your intuition. If you think you should call the doctor, call. If you think you should take your baby to the emergency room, do it. When it comes to your baby's health, the old adage "Better safe than sorry" is true.

To help the medical staff know what's happening with your baby and how best to treat the problem, be prepared to answer these questions:

• Why did you decide to call or come in to the doctor's office?
• Who is or will be your baby's regular doctor? When is your baby's next appointment?
• How can the medical staff help you?
• What concerns you about how your baby is acting?
• What changes have you noticed? Have you noticed changes in eating or drinking patterns, in the number of wet diapers, or in the number and consistency of bowel movements?
• Has your baby ever acted like this before?
• Have you taken your baby's temperature? Does he or she have a fever?
• Is anyone in your family ill, or has your baby been exposed to illness elsewhere?
• What treatment have you already tried? Have you given your baby any medication or home remedies? If so, what, how much and when?
• Does your baby have any allergies to medications or foods? Have you been told to avoid any specific medications for your child?

It's a good idea to become acquainted with the medical resources in your community as soon as possible. Knowing what's available may save you time — and stress — during an emergency situation. If you haven't already, consider:

• Selecting a primary medical caregiver for your child
• Finding out about office hours at local clinics and hospitals
• Determining the location of the nearest emergency department
• Familiarizing yourself with the care options that are covered by your medical insurance