Getting the right diagnosis early can make a huge difference in a child’s health. However, children are often misdiagnosed, and when serious conditions are missed, the results can be life-changing.
Delays in treatment may lead to worsening symptoms, long-term damage or even medical emergencies. Understanding why this happens can help families spot red flags and push for the right medical support.
Why misdiagnosis happens in children
Children do not always describe pain or symptoms clearly. A young child may say they feel “sick” without knowing what’s wrong. Doctors may also assume a child is going through a normal phase, rather than recognising a deeper health issue.
Short appointments, pressure to make quick diagnoses and limited access to qualified paediatricians all increase the risk of errors. In some cases, a child’s symptoms may mimic those of a less serious condition, making it harder to identify the actual problem.
Serious conditions that are often missed
Some medical conditions in children are hard to spot early, but can have serious consequences if ignored:
- Type 1 diabetes: This can be mistaken for the flu or a stomach bug. Without proper diagnosis, a child can fall into diabetic ketoacidosis, a life-threatening emergency.
- Appendicitis: Symptoms may be vague or mild at first. A delayed diagnosis can lead to a ruptured appendix.
- Epilepsy: Small seizures may be seen as daydreaming or inattention, leading to untreated episodes and safety risks.
- Autoimmune diseases: Conditions like lupus or juvenile arthritis can be dismissed as growing pains or stress.
If you are not happy with the treatment your child has received, you can seek a second medical opinion. If the treatment fell below the accepted standard in the medical profession and your child suffered harm as a result, you may be entitled to pursue a medical malpractice claim.
