Treatment for child fever. Child Fever Treatment: Home Remedies and When to Seek Medical Help

26.05.202316.07.2023 by alexxlab

What are effective home treatments for child fever. How can parents accurately measure a child’s temperature. When should parents contact a healthcare provider for a child’s fever.

Содержание

Understanding Childhood Fevers: Causes and Symptoms

Fever in children is a common occurrence that often causes concern for parents. It’s important to understand that fever itself is not an illness, but rather a symptom of the body’s natural defense mechanism against infections. A fever is generally defined as a body temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.

What causes fevers in children? Fevers can be triggered by various factors:

Viral or bacterial infections
Recent vaccinations
Overheating due to excessive clothing or high environmental temperatures
Severe sunburns

While fevers can be uncomfortable for children, they often resolve on their own without specific treatment. However, understanding how to properly manage a fever at home and recognizing when medical attention is necessary are crucial skills for parents and caregivers.

Accurate Temperature Measurement: Choosing the Right Method

Accurate temperature measurement is essential for assessing the severity of a fever and determining the appropriate course of action. The method used to take a child’s temperature can significantly impact the reading’s accuracy.

Which type of thermometer is most accurate for measuring a child’s temperature? Digital thermometers are the most reliable and safest option. Mercury thermometers should never be used due to the risk of mercury exposure if broken.

Here’s a breakdown of temperature measurement methods by accuracy:

Rectal thermometers: Most accurate, especially for infants
Forehead (temporal artery) thermometers: Second most accurate when used correctly
Oral thermometers: Accurate for older children when used properly
Ear (tympanic) thermometers: Can be accurate if used correctly
Axillary (armpit) thermometers: Least accurate, but can be used for quick checks

The best method for measuring your child’s temperature depends on their age:

Under 3 months: Rectal or forehead thermometers
4 months to 6 months: Rectal, forehead, or axillary thermometers
6 months to 4 years: Rectal, forehead, ear, or axillary thermometers
4 years and older: Oral, forehead, ear, or axillary thermometers

When reporting your child’s temperature to a healthcare provider, always mention which method you used to obtain the reading.

Effective Home Remedies for Managing Child Fevers

Managing a child’s fever at home can help alleviate discomfort and promote recovery. Here are some effective home remedies for fever management:

1. Appropriate Clothing and Bedding

How should you dress a child with a fever? Dress your child in light, breathable clothing to prevent overheating. For babies under one year old, use a sleep sack or wearable blanket instead of loose blankets. Older children can be covered with a light sheet or blanket while sleeping.

2. Hydration

Maintaining proper hydration is crucial during a fever. For babies under one year, continue breastfeeding or formula feeding. Older infants and children should be offered extra fluids such as water, diluted 100% juice, popsicles, or oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte®.

3. Nutrition

While a child with a fever may have a reduced appetite, it’s important to offer small, frequent meals of soft, easily digestible foods. Don’t force eating if the child is resistant.

4. Sponge Baths

Lukewarm sponge baths can help reduce body temperature. Use room-temperature water and gently sponge it over the child’s body. Avoid using cold water or adding alcohol to the bath, as these can be harmful.

Over-the-Counter Medications for Fever Relief

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications can be effective in reducing fever and alleviating associated discomfort. However, it’s crucial to use these medications correctly and safely.

Which OTC medications are safe for treating child fevers? The two primary options are:

Acetaminophen (Tylenol®): Safe for children over 2 months old
Ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®): Safe for children over 6 months old

It’s important to note that aspirin should never be given to children due to its association with Reye’s syndrome, a potentially fatal condition.

When administering OTC medications, always follow these guidelines:

Read the label carefully to determine the correct dosage based on your child’s age and weight
Use the measuring device provided with the medication for accurate dosing
Never exceed the recommended dosage or frequency of administration
Keep a record of medication times to avoid accidental overdosing

If you’re unsure about the appropriate medication or dosage for your child, consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist before administering any medication.

Recognizing When to Seek Medical Attention

While most childhood fevers can be managed at home, there are situations where professional medical attention is necessary. Recognizing these situations is crucial for ensuring your child’s health and safety.

When should you contact a healthcare provider for your child’s fever? Consider the following guidelines:

Age-based Temperature Thresholds

Infants under 3 months: Any temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
Children over 3 months: Temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher, or a fever above 102°F (38.9°C) that persists for more than two days

Accompanying Symptoms

Seek medical attention if your child has a fever and exhibits any of these symptoms:

Appears very ill, extremely irritable, or unusually drowsy
Shows signs of dehydration (dry mouth, sunken eyes, decreased urination)
Complains of severe headache, neck stiffness, or abdominal pain
Experiences persistent vomiting or diarrhea
Develops an unusual rash
Has a compromised immune system or underlying health condition

In cases of severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, or unresponsiveness, call emergency services immediately.

Preventing Fevers and Promoting Overall Child Health

While it’s not always possible to prevent fevers, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of infections and promote your child’s overall health.

How can you help prevent fevers and boost your child’s immune system? Consider these strategies:

Encourage frequent handwashing, especially before meals and after using the bathroom
Keep your child’s vaccinations up to date
Ensure your child gets adequate sleep and follows a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Promote regular physical activity appropriate for your child’s age
Limit exposure to sick individuals when possible
Teach your child to avoid touching their face, especially when in public spaces

By implementing these preventive measures and maintaining good overall health habits, you can help reduce the frequency and severity of fevers in your child.

Understanding Fever Patterns and Their Significance

Fever patterns can provide valuable information about the underlying cause of the illness. While not all fevers follow specific patterns, certain characteristics can help healthcare providers in their diagnosis.

What are the different types of fever patterns, and what do they signify? Here’s an overview of common fever patterns:

1. Continuous Fever

A continuous fever remains elevated throughout the day with little fluctuation. This pattern is often associated with bacterial infections such as pneumonia or urinary tract infections.

2. Intermittent Fever

An intermittent fever fluctuates between normal and elevated temperatures throughout the day. This pattern is commonly seen in viral infections and some bacterial infections.

3. Remittent Fever

A remittent fever fluctuates but never returns to normal temperature. This pattern can be seen in various infections, including some types of pneumonia.

4. Relapsing Fever

A relapsing fever occurs when periods of fever alternate with periods of normal temperature. This pattern is less common but can be associated with certain tick-borne diseases or parasitic infections.

While these patterns can provide clues, it’s important to remember that fever patterns alone are not diagnostic. A healthcare provider will consider multiple factors, including accompanying symptoms and physical examination findings, to determine the underlying cause of the fever.

The Role of Fever in the Immune Response

Understanding the role of fever in the body’s immune response can help parents appreciate why fever isn’t always a cause for concern. Fever is an important part of the body’s defense mechanism against infections.

How does fever contribute to fighting infections? Fever plays several crucial roles:

Inhibits the growth of some bacteria and viruses that thrive at normal body temperature
Enhances the activity of white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting infections
Increases the production of antibodies, helping the immune system recognize and fight pathogens more effectively
Stimulates the production of heat shock proteins, which protect cells from damage during the fever

While these benefits highlight why fever can be beneficial, it’s important to balance this understanding with appropriate management of high fevers or those causing significant discomfort. The goal of fever management is not always to eliminate the fever entirely, but rather to reduce it to a more comfortable level for the child.

Parents should focus on their child’s overall condition rather than solely on the temperature reading. A child who is alert, drinking fluids, and responsive may not need fever-reducing medication even if their temperature is elevated. Conversely, a child who is lethargic or showing signs of distress may benefit from fever-reducing measures even if their temperature is only mildly elevated.

By understanding the role of fever in the immune response, parents can make more informed decisions about when to treat a fever at home and when to seek medical attention. This knowledge can help alleviate unnecessary anxiety and promote a more balanced approach to fever management in children.

Home Treatment and When to See a Doctor

Nationwide Children’s Hospital

Fever is an increase in the body’s temperature above normal. Body temperature is usually lowest in the morning and goes up through the day. Each person’s body temperature can be different. It is hard to give an exact temperature for a fever, but most health care providers agree that a fever is a temperature of 100.4˚ Fahrenheit (F) or 38˚ Celsius (C) or higher.

Fevers can show that the body is fighting an infection from a virus or bacteria. It can also happen after getting a vaccine, from getting overheated, or from a very bad sunburn. Many times, the fever does not need to be treated and will go away on its own.

How to Take a Temperature

The type of thermometer used may make a difference.

To take a temperature, use a digital thermometer. Never use a mercury thermometer.
Rectal (in baby’s bottom) thermometers are the most accurate.
Forehead (temporal artery) thermometers are the next best choice if used the right way.
Oral (mouth) and ear (tympanic) thermometers can be used if done properly. For oral temperatures, wait 30 minutes after drinking something hot or cold. For ear, wait 15 minutes after coming in from the cold.
Lastly, an axillary (armpit) temperature can be used as a quick check but it is not very accurate.

The best ways to check your child’s temperature depends on their age.

Under 3 months: rectal or forehead thermometers
4 months or older: rectal, forehead, or axillary thermometers
Older than 6 months: rectal, forehead, ear, or axillary thermometers

4 years old or older: oral (mouth), forehead, ear, or axillary thermometers

Be sure to tell your child’s health care provider which method you used.

Home Treatment

A fever may not need to be treated unless your child is uncomfortable. Even higher temperatures are not usually dangerous unless they have a long-term illness.

Dress your child in light clothing. Over dressing them can trap the body’s heat and make the temperature go higher.
- Babies under age 1: Dress them in a sleep sack or wearable blanket. Do not put loose blankets over them.
- Children over age 1: While sleeping, cover them with a sheet or light blanket.
Give extra fluids.
- Babies under age 1: Continue to give breast milk and formula. They should not be given water. If they are older than 6 months, you can give Pedialyte®.
- Children over age 1: Offer extra liquids to drink, like water, diluted 100% juice, popsicles, or Pedialyte.
Your child may not want to eat much. Offer soft foods often and in small amounts but do not force them to eat.
Give sponge baths or let your child soak in a tub. Water should be lukewarm, not too hot or cold. Use a wash cloth to sponge the water over your child’s body (Picture 1).
- Do NOT add alcohol to the water. It can be dangerous.
- Recheck your child’s temperature 15 minutes after the bath. If the temperature is 103˚F (39.4˚C) or is going higher, repeat the sponge bath.
Over-the-counter medicines can help lower a fever. Read the label on the bottle to know the right dose for your child.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol^®) may be used in all children over 2 months.
- Ibuprofen (Advil^®, Motrin^®) may be used in children over 6 months.
- Do NOT give aspirin to children (Picture 2). Aspirin has been linked to a disease called Reye’s syndrome, which can be fatal.

When to Call the Health Care Provider

Call your child’s health care provider right away if your child:

Is younger than 3 months of age and has a temperature of 100. 4˚F (38˚C) or higher.
Is older than 3 months and has a temperature:
- Of 104 ˚F (40 ˚C) or above.
- Above 102˚F (38.9˚C) for more than 2 days or keeps coming back.
- That has been treated to bring it down, but it has not worked.
At any age, has a fever and:
- Looks very ill, is very fussy, or very drowsy.
- Is not eating or drinking and shows signs of dehydration – dry or sticky mouth, sunken eyes, dark urine, dry diapers, or not urinating.
- Has a stiff neck, bad headache, very sore throat, painful stomach ache, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Has an unusual rash
- Has been in a very hot place, such as an overheated car.
- Has immune system problems that make them more likely to get sick, such as sickle cell disease or cancer, or takes a medicine that weakens the immune system.

Call 911 or go to the emergency department if your child has trouble breathing, has a seizure, or is hard to wake up.

Fever (PDF), Arabic (PDF), Nepali (PDF), Somali (PDF), Spanish (PDF)

What to Do When Your Kid Has a Fever

Written by R. Morgan Griffin

What You Should Do
What You Shouldn’t Do
When Should You Call the Doctor?
Tips to Take Your Child’s Temperature

If you’re a parent, it’s a scene that’s all too familiar. You put your hand on your sick child’s forehead and it feels warm. Then the thermometer confirms your suspicion: They’ve got a fever. But if you follow some simple rules you’ll make them more comfortable and keep them safe.

Fever is a defense against infection. Your child’s body is raising its temperature to kill the germs. In most cases it’s harmless and goes away on its own in 3 days.

Acetaminophen can lower your child’s temperature. If they’re older than 2, the dose will be listed on the label. If they’re younger, ask your doctor how much to give them.

Another option is ibuprofen if your child is at least 6 months old.

There’s a lot you can do to make them feel better. Put a cool compress on their head and keep their room at a moderate temperature — not too hot and not too cold. Dress them in one layer of light clothing and offer a light blanket. You can also cool them off with a lukewarm sponge bath.

And don’t forget — make sure they drink a lot of fluids.

Never give your child aspirin. It can cause a serious condition called Reye’s syndrome.

Avoid combination cold and flu remedies in young kids. They shouldn’t be used in children under age 4. In older kids, it’s unclear how well they work.

If you decide to use a cold medicine, check with your pediatrician to be sure your child is old enough for the type of medicine you’re considering. According to the FDA, no child under the age of 2 should be given any kind of cough or cold product that contains a decongestant or antihistamine, and caution should be used even in children who are older than 2. In addition, no child under 4 years of age should be given a product that combines cough and cold medicines. The possible side-effects can be serious and even life-threatening.

If the doctor says it’s OK to use a cough or cold medicine, then read the label before you buy and pick the one that most closely matches your child’s symptoms. Don’t switch back and forth between different medications without your pediatrician’s OK.

Don’t use an icy cold bath or rub your child’s skin with alcohol. Either can actually drive a fever up.

And even if your child has the chills, don’t bundle them up with thick blankets or clothes.

Usually, you don’t need to take your sick child to the doctor. But sometimes fever can be a serious warning sign. Call your pediatrician if your child:

Has a temperature of 104 F or higher
Is under 3 months old and has a temperature of 100.4 F or higher
Has a fever that lasts for more than 72 hours (or more than 24 hours if your child is under age 2)
Has a fever along with other symptoms such as a stiff neck, extremely sore throat, ear pain, rash, or severe headache
Has a seizure
Seems very sick, upset, or unresponsive

How often do you need to check? That depends on the situation. Ask your pediatrician. Usually, you don’t need to take your child’s temperature obsessively or wake them up if they’re sleeping peacefully. But you should do it if their energy seems low or if your child has a history of seizures with fever.

Which thermometer is best for kids? Digital ones are best. They can be used in their mouth, rectally, or under the arm.

For young children, a rectal temperature is most accurate. If your kids are at least 4 or 5 years old, you can probably get a good reading with a thermometer in the mouth. Under the arm is less reliable but it’s easier to do. Remember to add a degree to an underarm reading to get a more accurate number.

Top Picks

90,000 causes, symptoms and treatment. Important information for parents!

Content

1 Baby fever: causes, symptoms and treatment
- 1.1 Baby fever: what is it?
- 1.2 Causes of infantile fever
- 1.3 How to determine the presence of infantile fever?
- 1.4 What are the common symptoms of childhood fever?
- 1.5 What is the treatment for childhood fever?
- 1.6 How can I prevent childhood fever?
- 1.7 When should you seek medical attention?
- 1.8 Consequences of improper treatment of childhood fever
- 1.9 How to help a child with childhood fever?
- 1.10 Why do children get fever more often than adults?
- 1.11 Q&A:
  - - 1.11.0.1 What is baby fever?
    - 1.11.0.2 What diseases can cause childhood fever?
    - 1.11.0.3 What symptoms may accompany childhood fever?
    - 1.11.0.4 How do I take a child’s temperature?
    - 1.11.0.5 How to treat childhood fever?
    - 1.11.0.6 When should I see a doctor for childhood fever?
- 1. 12 How can I keep my baby healthy to prevent baby fever?
- 1.13 Related videos:

Learn about the characteristics and causes of childhood fever, how to measure it, and how to properly reduce a child’s temperature. Useful tips and advice for parents.

For every parent, the child’s health is a top priority. But what if the child raises the temperature? Childhood fever is a common occurrence faced by many families. However, it’s not always just a cold or the flu. Today we will tell you what the causes of childhood fever can be, what symptoms should be noted and how to properly treat a child.

Childhood fever is an increase in body temperature above 37 degrees. It can occur as a result of infectious diseases, inflammation, allergic reactions, as well as some other conditions. But how do you know what exactly caused a fever in a child? Which signs indicate a serious illness, and which ones indicate a simple runny nose or cough?

In this article we will try to explain all the important points related to childhood fever. We will talk about what symptoms to look out for, when to see a doctor, and what methods of help you can use at home. After all, the correct behavior in case of fever is the key to a quick and successful recovery of the child!

Childhood fever: what is it?

Childhood fever is an elevated body temperature in a child, often accompanied by other symptoms such as headache, chills, muscle aches and decreased appetite.

An increase in body temperature is part of the body’s defense response to infection or inflammation. As a rule, this is due to the activation of the immune system, which fights the causative agent of the disease.

However, high fever can also be caused by other causes such as fluid loss, an allergic reaction, and other illnesses.

Causes of infantile fever

Infections are the most common cause of infantile fever. They can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. Such infections include SARS, influenza, whooping cough, malaria and other diseases.

Complications of surgery – Children, especially infants, may develop a fever after surgery. This is due to infectious complications or a reaction to anesthesia.

Vaccination – an adequate immune response to vaccines may be accompanied by fever. This reaction is usually of short duration and does not require treatment.

Allergic reactions – These include allergies to a specific food source, drugs, vegetation, and chemicals. Allergies can cause fever along with other symptoms.

General fatigue of the body – fever can be caused by severe physical or emotional stress. Children who overwork may fall into a state that leads to a rise in temperature.

Less than 1.5 liters

1.5-2 liters

More than 2 liters

Childhood fever is an increase in body temperature above 37.5°C in a child. As a parent, it is important to know what signs indicate the presence of a fever in order to quickly detect it and take action.

The main symptoms of childhood fever include:

Fever
Warm and dry body
Chills
Rapid heartbeat
Sweating
Sluggish awn and fatigue

To accurately measure your baby’s temperature, use an electronic thermometer or liquid mercury thermometer. It is recommended to measure the temperature in the rectum, in the inguinal fossa or axilla. When the temperature rises, you need to consult a doctor to establish the causes and choose the right treatment.

What are the common symptoms of childhood fever?

Children suffering from fever usually experience the following symptoms.

High body temperature: is the most common symptom of childhood fever. The temperature can reach 38°-39°C or more.
Headache: often children complain of pain in the head, which can be mild or severe.
Chills: Some children, especially young children, may feel cold and trembling.
Loss of appetite: children may not want to eat when they have a fever.
Muscle and joint pain: Some children may experience muscle and joint pain.
Fatigue and weakness: fever can make the child tired and weak.

If your child has one or more of these symptoms, see a pediatrician for advice and treatment.

What is the treatment for childhood fever?

Treatment of childhood fever depends on its cause. If it’s a cold or the flu, it’s a good idea to drink plenty of fluids and take medicines that lower fever and relieve symptoms, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.

If the child has a fever accompanied by convulsions or restlessness, more powerful medications may be needed, such as corticosteroids or antibiotics for an infection.

Bed rest is also part of the treatment of childhood fever, especially in cases of high fever or weakness. Additionally, you can apply cold compresses to your forehead or take warm baths to relieve symptoms.

It is important to remember that self-treatment of childhood fever can be dangerous, so you should consult your doctor before starting treatment.

How can I prevent childhood fever?

Prevention of childhood fever is of great importance for the health of the child and the psychological comfort of the parents. Some measures can help reduce the risk of illness:

Practice good hygiene . Wash your child’s hands before eating and after going outside. Teach him the culture of picking his nose and partners.
Strengthen your immune system . Vaccinations, eating fruits and vegetables regularly, exercising, and spending time outdoors can help boost your child’s immune system.
Keep your child safe . Avoid contact with people who have infectious diseases. Explain to your child how to use public transportation properly to avoid possible exposure to disease-causing microbes.
See your pediatrician regularly . The recommendations of a specialist will help to avoid possible diseases and will be useful for maintaining the health of your child.
Do not self-medicate . Each disease has its own characteristics and requires a special approach that only a doctor can determine. Self-medication can lead to complications and even death.

Following a few simple rules will help you avoid many of the problems associated with childhood fever. But if a disease does occur, it is important to immediately contact a medical specialist to receive qualified assistance.

When should you seek medical attention?

If your child has a high temperature that does not go down even after taking antipyretic drugs, see a doctor. You should also pay attention to other symptoms, such as: severe headaches, severe pain in the throat or ears, sleep disturbance, loss of appetite and activity, diarrhea or vomiting.

If your child has a chronic illness, immunodeficiency, or other illness that can get worse when sick, see your doctor for advice on the steps you can take to protect your child’s health.

If your baby is under 3 months old and has a temperature above 38 degrees Celsius, you should see a doctor who can do blood, urine and other tests to find the cause of the illness and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Do not delay seeking medical attention if the temperature continues to rise.
Do not self-medicate, do not give your child antibiotics without confirmation from a doctor, as this may worsen the child’s condition.

Improper treatment of infantile fever

Incorrect treatment of infantile fever can lead to serious health consequences for the little patient. In case of non-compliance with the doctor’s recommendations or self-treatment, the following problems may arise:

Complex complications. Often, childhood fever is the first symptom of a disease that may require complex treatment. It is necessary to consult a doctor so that he can diagnose and prescribe appropriate therapy.
Recurrent fever. If the primary disease is not completely cured, then a second attack of fever will not take long.
Development of complications. If the doctor’s recommendations are not followed, complications of the disease may develop, which will have long-term consequences for the health of a small patient.

Therefore, it is very important not to ignore the symptoms of childhood fever and to seek immediate medical attention if it occurs.

How to help a child with childhood fever?

1. Maintain the correct drinking regimen: when the child’s body temperature is high, he will lose fluid faster. So don’t forget to offer him water or other drinks that can help keep him hydrated. Limit the amount of sugar and caffeine, as they can aggravate the condition.

2. Maintain a comfortable temperature: the child must remain in a comfortable temperature zone. If the room temperature is too high, open the windows or turn on the air conditioner. If the child is cold, have him put on warm clothes or cover himself with a warm blanket.

3. Apply cooling methods: To reduce body temperature, use cooling methods such as rubbing the body with water (including adding vinegar), applying wet compresses to the forehead or armpits, enriching the water with a humidifier in the room. But do not use ice water or ice, as this can lead to frostbite.

4. Give your child medicine: There are various antipyretic and anti-inflammatory medicines that can help manage a child’s fever. But remember to follow the dosage and do not give your child aspirin under 16, as this can increase the risk of Flight Syndrome.

5. Monitor the child: monitor the child’s condition and behavior. If you see new symptoms appear, see your doctor.

Why do children get fever more often than adults?

Probably many parents have asked themselves this question when they saw that another of their children had a fever. Why are children, especially younger ones, so prone to this problem?

Immunity: In young children, immunity is still weak and not fully developed. The child’s body does not have enough antibodies to fight infection, making it more vulnerable to various viruses and bacteria.

Contact with a large number of people: Children attend kindergartens, schools, playgrounds, where they can meet other children with various infections. This can cause infection in the child, especially when the immune system is not strong enough to cope with the infection.

Increased activity: Children are more active and love to play, run and jump. Their active lifestyle can lead to damage and injury, which in turn can cause various inflammatory processes and an increase in body temperature.

It is important to remember that childhood fever is a serious illness that requires medical attention. If your child has signs of a fever, be sure to see a doctor so that he can determine the cause of the illness and prescribe the correct treatment.

Q&A:

What is baby fever?

Childhood fever is an increase in body temperature in a child up to 38 ° C and above, accompanied by various symptoms, such as headache, runny nose, cough, vomiting, diarrhea and others. It can be caused by infectious, inflammatory and other diseases, as well as unknown factors.

What diseases can cause childhood fever?

Many diseases can cause childhood fever, including SARS, influenza, tonsillitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, gastroenteritis, allergic reactions, and others.

What symptoms can accompany childhood fever?

Symptoms associated with childhood fever may include headache, weakness, drowsiness, loss of appetite, muscle and joint pain, cough, runny nose, sore throat, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, and others, depending on the cause and nature of the illness.

How to take a child’s temperature?

A mercury or electronic thermometer inserted into the rectum, armpit, or mouth can be used to measure a child’s temperature. But the measurement method must be agreed with the doctor and correspond to the age and condition of the child.

How to treat childhood fever?

Treatment for childhood fever depends on its cause and symptoms. In some cases, the use of antibiotics or other drugs is required, and in other cases, observation and supportive therapy is sufficient. It is also important to provide the child with peace, moist and cool air, regular fluid intake and proper nutrition.

When should I see a doctor for childhood fever?

Seek medical attention if the child has a very high body temperature, is intolerant to fluids, shows symptoms of mental depression, develops complications, or has other signs of a serious illness. You should also consult your doctor if your child’s fever does not subside within a few days and is accompanied by other dangerous symptoms.

How can I keep my baby healthy to prevent baby fever?

Wash your hands regularly. Clean hands are one of the best ways to prevent illness, including childhood fever. Remember to teach your child how to properly wash their hands before eating, after going to the toilet, and after touching pets.

Keep your home clean. Clean your home regularly, especially in areas where dust and dirt accumulate, such as floors and furniture. Ventilate the room regularly to ensure fresh air circulates throughout the home.

Monitor your child’s nutrition. A healthy and balanced diet will help strengthen your child’s immune system and protect against illness, including childhood fever. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and raw or boiled oats in your diet.

Vaccine your child with confidence. Following your doctor’s recommendations for vaccinations will help prevent many illnesses that can cause childhood fever. Follow the recommendations of the Russian preventive calendar vaccination and consult your pediatrician if you need a specific vaccination recommendation.

Teach your child how to cough and sneeze correctly. It is important to teach your child to cover their mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing to prevent the spread of pathogens. Teach your child to poke his nose with a handkerchief or tissue paper and throw it away after use.

types, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, clinical recommendations

Fever is insidious: it may not threaten the child’s health at all, or it may be a symptom of a transient dangerous infection. When the temperature rises, you should understand the situation, find the cause and constantly monitor the changes.

Heat exchange in children is somewhat different than in adults. At birth, all babies have a special brown fat, which is quickly replaced by ordinary white fatty tissue. Brown fat contains many mitochondria. They interact with fatty acids and release heat when needed. Since babies are very vulnerable in the first days of life, this mechanism protects them from hypothermia.

In the process of life, the mechanisms of heat transfer in children continue to change, they become more and more similar to the thermoregulation of adults. In fact, the final development of the system ends only by 8 years. Until this age, children lose heat worse and at the same time produce it better. Because of this feature, overheating is more dangerous for the baby, and the entire thermoregulation system is much less stable. Temperature jumps in children happen often, and the reasons can be very different.

What is fever

Body temperature above 37°C is considered hyperthermia, that is, fever. When measuring temperature in the rectum, fever is considered to be above 38°C.

The mechanism of fever is as follows: pyrogens, substances that stimulate fever, provoke the release of anti-inflammatory substances. Pyrogens are most often of an infectious nature. They act on the thermoregulatory center, which becomes less sensitive to thermal impulses. The whole system is rebuilt to work at a higher level: heat production increases and heat transfer decreases, which leads to a general increase in body temperature.

At the same time, many viruses and bacteria in such a “heat” reduce the rate of reproduction, and the immune system increases the synthesis of antibodies. The activity of leukocytes, inflammatory cells, also increases. At its core, an increase in temperature is a protective reaction of the body, which allows you to quickly defeat the infection and activate the immune system.

Symptoms of fever in children

An increase in body temperature immediately affects the well-being of the child. The skin becomes hot, wet, the baby has weakness, chills, headache, he cries. If the fever is severe, then delirium, confusion and convulsions are possible.

Clinically, fever in children is divided into “pink” and “pale”.

The first is the most common and relatively harmless. It is provoked mainly as a reaction to an infection, despite the high numbers on the thermometer, the child usually feels fine. At the same time, the baby’s skin is red, hot, moist, legs and arms remain warm. The higher the temperature, the more often the child begins to breathe, the pulse quickens.

Pale fever is much more dangerous. Due to vasospasm, the skin turns white, may be covered with “marble” cyanotic spots. The skin is hot, but dry, the child hardly sweats. Hands and feet are cold, shortness of breath may begin. There are problems with pressure: it rises sharply, and then can drop almost to a state of shock. At the same time, the child is excessively lethargic, it is impossible to wake him up. Or, on the contrary, overexcited, he is disturbed by hallucinations and delirium.

“Pale” fever is characteristic of severe bacterial infections. It requires special attention, as it can cause serious complications.

Causes of fever in children

The body temperature of young children is unstable. It can fluctuate from emotional overexcitation, fatigue. At an older age, hormonal failure during puberty can also cause fever.

But the main causes are various infections. Injuries, internal hemorrhages, burns and bruises, overheating in the sun and dehydration can also cause fever. The reasons can be very serious: tumors, genetic diseases, hormonal disorders.

Fever is usually accompanied by a sudden rise in temperature, which is stopped by drugs, but can last for several hours. There are long-term conditions, while the temperature rises slightly, but often. One such example is thermoneurosis. To determine the exact cause, you need to call a pediatrician (1).

Treatment of fever in children

Almost always, body temperature rises as a reaction to infection: bacteria, viruses. In some cases, there are few specific symptoms at the very beginning of the disease (for example, with meningococcal infection). At the same time, the disease develops rapidly and in some cases can even lead to death, so you should always pay increased attention to fever.

Treatment will be specific, aimed at eliminating the source of infection. For this, depending on the cause, antibiotics, antiviral drugs, as well as their own immune forces can be used. To reduce the temperature with threatening figures, antipyretics are used in various forms. Dosage and choice of drug depend on the age of the child.

Photo: @karolina-grabowska, pexels.com

A slight and short-term increase in temperature may be associated with nervous tension, overheating, teething. It is important to know that the very fact of teething cannot cause a significant jump in temperature – normally this process is quite natural and does not cause fever. If you are teething and have a high fever, it is almost certainly not your teeth that are causing you to relax (2). You need to establish the cause, remember what happened before the rise in temperature, which could cause a fever. If it is overheating, the child should be moved to a cool place, give water, cool the head, wipe the body with water. Do not wipe the skin with alcohol, vodka or too cold water and ice. Severe cold constricts blood vessels and heat transfer is still reduced, the body cannot cool. And alcohol can be partially absorbed through the skin, its vapors adversely affect the baby.

The temperature can drop badly from dehydration, so sometimes you even have to force a sick child to drink. There is a special formula, according to which, with each degree of excess temperature, the volume of liquid that needs to be taken increases. For every degree of elevated temperature, 10 ml of water per kilogram of the child’s weight is added.

Diagnostics

Various thermometers, including mercury and electronic, are used to measure temperature. The latter are not very accurate, the error in degrees in individual models can be large. Mercury thermometers must be used very carefully so as not to break.

Temperature in children is taken under the armpit, in the groin or in the rectum. Shake the thermometer to 35°C, wipe it with a disinfectant and insert it under the arm or into the skin fold (it must first be wiped) in the groin. You need to hold the thermometer by pressing the bent arm or leg of the child for about 10 minutes.

The most accurate way is to measure the temperature in the rectum. In children under 2 years old, this is the main method. Rectal temperature is always higher than on the surface of the body. Normal rectal temperature is considered to be 37.3-37.7. Before the measurement, it will not be superfluous to do a cleansing enema, but you can do without it. The thermometer must first be disinfected, the tip should be lubricated with petroleum jelly and inserted into the rectum to a depth of no more than 5 cm. Then squeeze the child’s buttocks with your hands and hold for about 5 minutes.

Modern methods of treatment

The most reliable way to quickly reduce the temperature is to take antipyretic drugs. They are also called antipyretics.

Do not give such medicines at every temperature jump, and even more so as a preventive measure – it will not work. Usually, antipyretics are used after 38-39 ° C, before this threshold the child feels quite well, and a slight fever helps to cope with the disease.

When convulsions appear, under the age of 2 months, with very poor health, you need to focus on the child’s feelings, and not on a thermometer. Sometimes antipyretics are required for mild fever, and sometimes a temperature of 39°C the child tolerates normally.

Fever should subside within about half an hour after taking the drug. If the antipyretic in the form of tablets, gels and syrups was ineffective, intramuscular or intravenous injections are usually administered. Persistent fever, which is not stopped for a long time by drugs, is the reason for calling an ambulance. Hospitalization may be required (3).

Photo: pixabay.com

Prevention of fever in children at home

Fever is possible with any infectious disease (4). It’s impossible to avoid it. It is only necessary to monitor the condition of the child, do not wrap him in blankets, give a sufficient amount of liquid.

When the fever subsides, there will be active sweating, all clothes and bedding may become wet. To make the child more comfortable and not get sick even more, change clothes more often.