20 June 2023 , 08:10
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A high-pitched and weak cry could be a major red flag for sepsis in children, doctors say.
While the most common symptoms of the life-threatening condition are rashes and unexplained sleepiness, the sound is one of the lesser known signs and parents have been warned to be aware.
The sign only makes itself known when the child cries, with sobs sounding higher than usual as well as weaker than their usual cry.
Sepsis occurs when an infection develops in the blood, and can be fatal without immediate medical intervention.
While anyone can develop it, babies under one - particularly if they were born premature or their mother had an infection during pregnancy - are particularly vulnerable.
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The symptom only presents itself when children cry (Getty Images)Infections can develop when someone cuts or injures themselves and the wound isn't cleaned properly, and cannot be caught from another person.
Other symptoms of the killer condition include a rash that doesn't fade when the skin is pressed by a glass, and breathing difficulties.
These will show in the form of grunting noises, their stomach sucking below their ribcage, breathlessness or breathing too fast.
Children with sepsis can also develop pale or blotchy skin which is slightly blue or grey on their lips or tongue - or the palms of hands or soles of feet if they have a darker skin tone - or if they are unusually drowsy or struggle to wake from sleep.
A lack of appetite or interest in is also a possible sign, the NHS says.
While similar, the symptoms of sepsis are slightly different in older children and adults, experts say.
Older patients may also become confused or incoherent, slurring their words when talking.
The health service says parents should call 999 or visit A&E if noticing any of these symptoms in a child, with the exception of sleeping or eating difficulties alone.
Children may not have all the symptoms, the service adds.
Great Ormond Street Hospital said: "If the child has blood poisoning and it is diagnosed and treated quickly they should recover fully without any long-term damage.
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"With more severe cases of blood poisoning, the damage to the child’s organs and body tissue may affect them permanently.
"In the most severe cases of blood poisoning, when treatment is too late to correct any damage done to the child’s body, it can be fatal."