Inconsolable toddler

[Rrrob]

Help! 20 month old has been inconsolable all day. Brief moments of calm when reading but otherwise crying. No temp, not chewing his hands so don’t think it’s teething but has has calpol just in case. He is currently asleep but woke up screaming a few mins go before going back to sleep.

Usually the most chilled out, happy little one. Would this worry you? I don’t know whether this is normal/ something we need to ride out or if it’s a cause for more concern.

Tummy pain?
Constipation?
Ear ache?

Is he eating, drinking, weeing, pooing normally?

I would strip and search tbh. Check for any sign of rash, swelling, bumps or bruises. Even something tiny could be sore - a bite or sting for example.
It is awful when they can't tell you.

Yes it would cause some concern. I agree with PP that you should strip him down and check for what could be causing pain.

DS was like this, and even being older at 3hr didn't verbalise that his ears were sore until day 2 of crying. He had a massive ear infection and must have been in agony.

Check for a hair or thread wrapped around fingers/toes

@sqirrelfriends

Yes it would cause some concern. I agree with PP that you should strip him down and check for what could be causing pain.

DS was like this, and even being older at 3hr didn't verbalise that his ears were sore until day 2 of crying. He had a massive ear infection and must have been in agony.

@Rrrob I have five kids and I came on to suggest ears or teeth. Give pain relief and see if he improves. It's really tough when they can't tell you

Ear ache/infection

Can’t see anything obvious from stripping him down. Have checked toes.

He’s just eaten a little bit of lunch but less than half of what he usually eats. I had to spoon feed him breakfast and lunch which is unheard of (he loves food and eats by handful).

He’s perked up a little bit and now eating some melty crisps.

What do I do about potential ear infection? Can it wait until Monday GP or should I try 111 for appt this weekend.

Thanks for all the advice, I have massive health anxiety (his older sister died suddenly and traumatically a few years ago) and find it hard to distinguish between normal illness and emergency.

I would call 111, I'm pretty overly cautious but they've always been lovely and will triage to a doctor or A&E if needed.

@Rrrob I'm so sorry to hear your daughter died.

Yes agree with others, call 111. Emphasise the fact he is off his food, very upset and no obvious source. For my DC this was either precursor to something (so keep taking temp or watch out for nappies) or they were over tired.

Fingers crossed he settles down or he gets seen soon.

@Rrrob how is your DS feeling now? Better I hope?

Very belated thanks for all the advice. Currently in bed with his twin sister who is now going through the same thing. Pretty sure it was teeth related as he has 4 new ones!! Happy Christmas to all.