How to accurately measure a child’s temperature. When does a fever require medical attention. What are the most effective ways to reduce fever in children. How to keep a child comfortable during a fever. When should parents seek emergency care for a feverish child. What are the potential complications of high fevers in children. How to prevent dehydration in a child with fever.

Understanding Fever in Children: Causes and Symptoms

Fever is a common occurrence in children and is typically a sign that the body is fighting off an infection. While it can be concerning for parents, fever is generally a beneficial response that helps the immune system combat pathogens. However, it’s crucial to understand what constitutes a fever and when it becomes a cause for concern.

A child is considered to have a fever when their body temperature rises above the normal range. The average body temperature is 98.6°F (37°C), but it can vary slightly from person to person. Generally, a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) is classified as a fever.

Common Causes of Fever in Children

• Viral infections (e.g., common cold, flu)
• Bacterial infections (e.g., strep throat, ear infections)
• Immunizations
• Heat exhaustion
• Autoimmune disorders

Understanding the underlying cause of a fever is essential for proper treatment and management. While most fevers are harmless and resolve on their own, some may indicate a more serious condition that requires medical attention.

Accurate Temperature Measurement: Techniques and Tools

Accurately measuring a child’s temperature is crucial for assessing the severity of a fever and determining the appropriate course of action. There are several methods to measure body temperature, each with its own advantages and considerations.

Which temperature measurement method is most accurate for children?

Rectal temperature measurement is considered the most accurate method for infants and young children. For older children, oral temperature measurement using a digital thermometer is generally reliable. However, it’s important to note that different measurement methods may yield slightly different results.

Temperature Measurement Methods

1. Rectal: Most accurate for infants and young children
2. Oral: Suitable for older children who can hold a thermometer under their tongue
3. Axillary (armpit): Less accurate but can be used for screening
4. Tympanic (ear): Quick and convenient, but may be less accurate in small children
5. Temporal artery (forehead): Non-invasive but can be affected by external factors

When using a digital thermometer, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate readings. For rectal temperature measurement, use a thermometer specifically designed for this purpose and apply a small amount of lubricant to the tip for comfort.

Fever Treatment: Safe and Effective Methods for Children

When a child’s temperature reaches 102°F (38.9°C) or higher, it may be necessary to take steps to reduce the fever and alleviate discomfort. However, it’s important to remember that fever itself is not harmful in most cases and can actually help the body fight off infections.

What are the safest fever-reducing medications for children?

The two most commonly recommended over-the-counter medications for reducing fever in children are acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). These medications are generally safe when used as directed, but it’s crucial to follow dosage instructions based on the child’s weight and age. Never give aspirin to children or teenagers, as it can lead to a rare but serious condition called Reye’s syndrome.

Non-Medicinal Fever Reduction Techniques

• Encourage fluid intake to prevent dehydration
• Dress the child in light, breathable clothing
• Keep the room temperature comfortable, around 70-72°F (21-22°C)
• Use a lukewarm compress on the forehead, wrists, or back of the neck
• Give a lukewarm bath (avoid cold water, which can cause shivering and raise body temperature)

It’s important to note that while these methods can help reduce fever and improve comfort, they should not be used excessively. The goal is to manage the fever, not eliminate it entirely, as the elevated temperature plays a role in fighting off infections.

Hydration: Keeping Your Feverish Child Well-Hydrated

Proper hydration is crucial when a child has a fever, as elevated body temperature can lead to increased fluid loss through sweating and rapid breathing. Dehydration can exacerbate fever symptoms and slow down the recovery process.

How can parents ensure their feverish child stays hydrated?

Offer fluids frequently, even if the child doesn’t express thirst. Water is the best option, but other hydrating fluids like clear broths, electrolyte solutions, or diluted fruit juices can also be beneficial. For infants, continue breastfeeding or formula feeding as usual, and consider offering additional fluids if recommended by a healthcare provider.

Signs of Dehydration in Children

• Dry mouth and lips
• Sunken eyes
• Decreased urine output or dark-colored urine
• Lethargy or irritability
• Lack of tears when crying
• Sunken soft spot (fontanelle) in infants

If you notice signs of dehydration in your child, especially in conjunction with a high fever, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. In severe cases, intravenous fluids may be necessary to restore proper hydration levels.

When to Seek Medical Attention: Red Flags for Pediatric Fevers

While most fevers in children are not cause for immediate concern, there are certain situations where medical attention should be sought promptly. Understanding these red flags can help parents make informed decisions about their child’s health.

At what point does a child’s fever warrant emergency medical care?

Seek emergency medical care if your child has a fever above 105°F (40.5°C), if the fever is accompanied by severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration, or if the child appears very ill regardless of the temperature reading.

Situations Requiring Immediate Medical Attention

• Fever in infants under 3 months old (regardless of temperature)
• Fever lasting more than 3 days
• Fever accompanied by a stiff neck or severe headache
• Signs of dehydration despite attempts to increase fluid intake
• Fever with a new or spreading rash
• Fever in a child with a compromised immune system or chronic medical condition
• Fever following recent travel to areas with endemic diseases

It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to children’s health. If you’re unsure whether your child’s fever requires medical attention, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

Fever Complications: Recognizing and Preventing Serious Issues

While fever itself is generally not harmful, in rare cases it can lead to complications, especially in young children or those with underlying health conditions. Being aware of potential complications can help parents take appropriate action to prevent or address them promptly.

What are the most serious potential complications of high fever in children?

The most concerning complications of high fever in children include febrile seizures, dehydration, and in very rare cases, brain damage. Febrile seizures, while frightening, are generally harmless and do not cause long-term effects. Severe dehydration and extremely high fevers (above 107°F or 41.7°C) can potentially lead to more serious complications, but these situations are uncommon with proper management and timely medical care.

Preventing Fever Complications

1. Monitor temperature regularly and accurately
2. Administer fever-reducing medications as directed
3. Ensure adequate hydration
4. Avoid overdressing or overbundling the child
5. Seek medical attention for persistent or high fevers
6. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for follow-up care

By taking these preventive measures and remaining vigilant, parents can significantly reduce the risk of fever-related complications in their children.

Fever Myths and Misconceptions: Separating Fact from Fiction

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding childhood fevers, which can lead to unnecessary worry and potentially harmful practices. Understanding the facts about fever can help parents make better decisions about their child’s care.

Do fevers always indicate a serious illness in children?

No, fevers do not always indicate a serious illness. In fact, most fevers in children are caused by common viral infections that resolve on their own within a few days. The height of the fever does not necessarily correlate with the severity of the illness. It’s more important to consider the child’s overall condition and accompanying symptoms rather than focusing solely on the temperature reading.

Common Fever Myths Debunked

• Myth: Fever itself can cause brain damage.
• Fact: Fever below 107°F (41.7°C) does not cause brain damage. Such extreme temperatures are extremely rare and usually caused by external factors.

• Myth: All fevers need to be treated with medication.
• Fact: Low-grade fevers (below 102°F or 38.9°C) don’t necessarily require treatment if the child is comfortable.

• Myth: Children with a fever shouldn’t eat.
• Fact: While appetite may decrease during illness, children should be encouraged to eat if they feel up to it.

• Myth: Bundling up a feverish child will “sweat out” the fever.
• Fact: Overdressing can actually increase body temperature and cause discomfort.

By dispelling these myths, parents can approach fever management with a clearer understanding and avoid unnecessary interventions that may not be beneficial to their child’s health.

Post-Fever Care: Supporting Your Child’s Recovery

After a fever breaks, it’s important to continue monitoring your child’s health and supporting their recovery. While the immediate threat may have passed, the body still needs time to fully heal and regain strength.

How long should parents continue to monitor their child after a fever subsides?

Parents should continue to monitor their child for at least 24-48 hours after the fever has resolved. This period allows for observation of any lingering symptoms or potential relapses. If the fever returns or new symptoms develop, it’s important to reassess the situation and consider contacting a healthcare provider.

Post-Fever Recovery Tips

1. Encourage rest and adequate sleep to support the immune system
2. Continue to offer plenty of fluids to maintain hydration
3. Gradually reintroduce normal activities as the child feels up to it
4. Monitor for any new or worsening symptoms
5. Follow up with your healthcare provider if recommended
6. Ensure the child completes any prescribed medication courses, if applicable

Remember that recovery times can vary depending on the underlying cause of the fever and the individual child. Some children may bounce back quickly, while others may need more time to regain their energy and appetite.

When to Resume Normal Activities

Generally, children can return to school or daycare when they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications. However, it’s important to consider the child’s overall well-being and energy levels. If they still seem tired or unwell, additional rest at home may be beneficial.

By following these post-fever care guidelines, parents can help ensure a smooth recovery and minimize the risk of relapse or complications. Always trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you have concerns about your child’s recovery process.

First Aid Information for Fever in hildren

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Call 911 if the person is:
• 1. Take Temperature
• 2. Treat Fever, if Necessary
• 3. Give Liquids
• 4. When to Contact a Doctor
• 5. Follow Up
• More

Also seek emergency medical help for any of the following:

• A fever combined with a stiff neck or headache
• Temperature above 105 F
• Fever with sudden onset of rash

• Temperature can be taken orally, rectally, or under the armpit.
• A person is typically considered feverish if oral temperature is above 100 F (37.8 C) or rectal temperature is above 99.5 F (37.5 C). Temperatures measured under the armpit are not considered as accurate and can be as much as 1 degree F lower than an oral measurement.
• A temperature above normal but below 100.4 F (38 C) is sometimes considered a low-grade or mild fever. It may mean that the body is responding to an infection.

No treatment is necessary for a mild fever unless the person is uncomfortable. If the fever is 102 or higher:

• Give an over-the-counter medicine such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) as directed on the label. Check with your doctor first if you have any medical conditions or take other medicines. Warning: Do NOT give aspirin to anyone age 18 or younger unless directed to do so by a doctor.
• Bathing or sponging in lukewarm water may bring the temperature down. Do not use cold water or alcohol.
• Have the person wear light clothing and use a light cover or sheet — overdressing can make body temperature go up. If the person gets chills, use an extra blanket until they go away.

• Have the person drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Seek medical help immediately if the person has:

• A history of serious illness such as AIDS, heart disease, cancer, or diabetes, or if the person is taking immunosuppressant drugs
• A high fever that doesn’t respond to fever-reducing medicine
• Been exposed to extremely hot weather and feels hot but is not sweating
• A stiff neck, is confused, or has trouble staying awake
• Severe pain in the lower abdomen
• Severe stomach pain, vomits repeatedly, or has severe diarrhea
• Skin rashes, blisters, or a red streak on an arm or leg
• A severe sore throat, swelling of the throat, or a persistent earache
• Pain with urination, back pain, or shaking chills
• A severe cough, coughs up blood, or has trouble breathing

Contact a doctor if the high body temperature lasts for more than 3 days or gets worse.

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First Aid Information for Fever in hildren

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• Call 911 if the person is:
• 1. Take Temperature
• 2. Treat Fever, if Necessary
• 3. Give Liquids
• 4. When to Contact a Doctor
• 5. Follow Up
• More

Also seek emergency medical help for any of the following:

• A fever combined with a stiff neck or headache
• Temperature above 105 F
• Fever with sudden onset of rash

• Temperature can be taken orally, rectally, or under the armpit.
• A person is typically considered feverish if oral temperature is above 100 F (37.8 C) or rectal temperature is above 99.5 F (37.5 C). Temperatures measured under the armpit are not considered as accurate and can be as much as 1 degree F lower than an oral measurement.
• A temperature above normal but below 100.4 F (38 C) is sometimes considered a low-grade or mild fever. It may mean that the body is responding to an infection.

No treatment is necessary for a mild fever unless the person is uncomfortable. If the fever is 102 or higher:

• Give an over-the-counter medicine such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) as directed on the label. Check with your doctor first if you have any medical conditions or take other medicines. Warning: Do NOT give aspirin to anyone age 18 or younger unless directed to do so by a doctor.
• Bathing or sponging in lukewarm water may bring the temperature down. Do not use cold water or alcohol.
• Have the person wear light clothing and use a light cover or sheet — overdressing can make body temperature go up. If the person gets chills, use an extra blanket until they go away.

• Have the person drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

Seek medical help immediately if the person has:

• A history of serious illness such as AIDS, heart disease, cancer, or diabetes, or if the person is taking immunosuppressant drugs
• A high fever that doesn’t respond to fever-reducing medicine
• Been exposed to extremely hot weather and feels hot but is not sweating
• A stiff neck, is confused, or has trouble staying awake
• Severe pain in the lower abdomen
• Severe stomach pain, vomits repeatedly, or has severe diarrhea
• Skin rashes, blisters, or a red streak on an arm or leg
• A severe sore throat, swelling of the throat, or a persistent earache
• Pain with urination, back pain, or shaking chills
• A severe cough, coughs up blood, or has trouble breathing

Contact a doctor if the high body temperature lasts for more than 3 days or gets worse.

© 2022 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved. View privacy policy and trust info

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Rheumatic fever – Humanitas

Rheumatic fever – is an inflammatory disease that develops as a complication of streptococcal pharyngitis or scarlet fever when not properly treated. Streptococcal pharyngitis and scarlet fever develop in association with group A streptococcal infections.

Rheumatic fever is most common in children aged 5 to 15 years, but can occur in young children and adults. Despite the prevalence of streptococcal pharyngitis, rheumatic fever is rare in developed countries. However, rheumatic fever is still prevalent in many developing countries.

Rheumatic fever can cause permanent damage to the heart, including damage to the heart valves and heart failure. Treatment can help reduce tissue damage from inflammation, reduce pain and other symptoms, and prevent recurrence of rheumatic fever.

Symptoms

The symptoms of rheumatic fever are varied. Some people have few symptoms, others may have very few. Symptoms may also change over the course of the disease. Rheumatic fever appears, usually two to four weeks after streptococcal pharyngitis.

Signs and symptoms of rheumatic fever due to inflammation of the heart, joints, skin and central nervous system:

• Fever
• Pain and tenderness in the joints, most often in the ankle, knee, elbow and wrist joints, less often in the shoulder, hip, and joints of the hands and feet.
• Pain in one joint that radiates to another joint
• Redness, fever and swelling in the joints
• Small painless nodules under the skin
• Chest pain
• Heart murmur
• Fatigue
• Flat or slightly raised, painless eruption with jagged edges (marginal erythema).
• Jerky uncontrolled body movements (Sydenham’s chorea or St. Vitus dance) – most common in the hands, feet and face
• Outbursts of unusual behavior, such as crying or inappropriate laughter, accompanying an attack of Sindengham’s chorea

Conditions that require medical attention

If signs or symptoms of streptococcal pharyngitis appear, the child should be taken to the doctor. Properly treating a streptococcal infection will help prevent rheumatic fever. Seek medical attention if your child has any of the following signs or symptoms:

• Sore throat without signs of a cold, such as a runny nose
• Sore throat with soreness and swollen lymph nodes
• Red eruptions that first appear on the head and neck and then spread to the trunk and limbs
• Difficulty swallowing anything, including saliva
• Thick or bloody nasal discharge, common in children under 3 years of age
• Tongue bright red with prominent papillae over its entire surface – the so-called “crimson tongue”

Consult a physician regarding the presence of fever in the following cases:

• Rectal temperature up to 38 C (100. 4 F) in neonates under 3 months of age
• Fever greater than 38.9 C (102 F) in children aged 3 to 6 months
• Fever greater than or equal to 38.9 C (102 F) in children aged 6 months to 2 years who do not have a fever after taking the appropriate drug or if the symptom persists for more than one day
• Temperature rise to 102 F (38.9 C) or more in children aged 2 to 17 years (in children under 3 years of age, temperature is measured in the rectum, in children over 3 years old, in the oral cavity) in the absence of a decrease temperature after taking the appropriate drug or if the symptom persists for more than three days
• In addition, a doctor should be contacted if the child has any other signs or symptoms of rheumatic fever.

Complications

Inflammation caused by rheumatic fever may persist for weeks to months. In some cases, inflammation can cause long-term complications.

Rheumatic heart disease is an irreversible heart disease caused by the inflammatory process of rheumatic fever. The valve that separates the two left chambers of the heart (mitral valve) is most commonly affected, but other valves can also be damaged. Such damage may result from one of the following conditions:

Valve stenosis This condition is characterized by narrowing of the valve, resulting in reduced blood flow.
Valve regurgitation This condition is characterized by incomplete closure of the valve, causing blood flow to go in the wrong direction.
Damage to the heart muscle Inflammation due to rheumatic fever can lead to weakening of the heart muscle and, as a result, a significant decrease in the pumping function of the heart.
Injury to the mitral valve, other heart valves, or other tissues of the heart may cause subsequent heart problems. Conditions that can develop due to valve damage:

Atrial fibrillation – irregular and chaotic beating of the upper chambers of the heart – atria.
Heart failure is the inability of the heart to pump enough blood around the body.