Our newborn is only 2 1/2 weeks old and already it has been quite the roller coaster.  His brother was kind enough to give him his cold and then things seemed to get out of control.  A stuffy nose and then a cough.  I wasn't sure if I was reacting like an overprotective mom or if I was doing the right thing by calling the doctor about everything. 

• Every child is different.  I was feeling bad that I wasn't sure about what to do when my son got a cough.  I mean, I have a 2 year old.  I should know these things, right?  I was panicked because he was such a little baby and he sounded horrible.  I took him to the pediatrician and found out that his lungs were clear.  When I expressed my fears about being unsure, my pediatrician reminded me that every child is different and that it is always better to be safe rather than sorry. 
  
• Don't be afraid to ask the professionals to get reassurance.  What if my son had a virus or was on his way to getting pneumonia?  You never know the answer to a question unless you ask it.
• Go with your gut.  If you think your child is sick and needs medical attention, have him checked out.  Even if someone gives you a hard time for asking lots of questions or bringing your child to the doctor frequently, you know what is best for your child or when your child isn't acting like his normal self. 
  

Trust your instincts.  You are the parent and you know your child.  Never apologize for being cautious about your child's health.