What can cause a fever in a child. Childhood Fever: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Guidelines for Parents

17.06.202316.07.2023 by alexxlab

What causes fever in children. How to recognize fever symptoms in kids. When should you treat a child’s fever. What are effective ways to reduce fever in children. When to call a healthcare provider for a child’s fever.

Содержание

Understanding Fever in Children: Definition and Mechanisms

Fever is a common occurrence in children, often causing concern for parents. But what exactly constitutes a fever? Most healthcare providers define fever as a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. This elevated body temperature is not an illness itself, but rather a symptom indicating that the body is fighting an infection or other condition.

The body maintains its temperature through a complex system involving several organs, including the brain, skin, muscles, and blood vessels. When a fever occurs, the body’s thermostat is temporarily reset to a higher temperature. This reset triggers various mechanisms to raise and maintain the elevated temperature:

Increased production of sweat
Redirection of blood flow
Retention or elimination of water
Seeking warmer environments

The Science Behind Fever

Why does the body increase its temperature during an infection? There are several reasons:

Production of cytokines and mediators in response to invading microorganisms or other intruders
Increased production of macrophages, cells that combat invaders
Stimulation of natural antibody production to fight infection
Release of toxic substances from disrupted bacterial membranes, triggering temperature elevation

Common Causes of Fever in Children

Fever in children can be attributed to various conditions. Understanding these potential causes can help parents better assess their child’s situation and determine when to seek medical attention.

Infectious diseases (viral or bacterial)
Certain medications
Heat stroke
Blood transfusion reactions
Neurological disorders
Some types of cancer
Autoimmune diseases

Is fever always harmful? Contrary to common belief, fever can actually be beneficial. It stimulates the body’s defense mechanisms, mobilizing white blood cells and other immune system components to combat the underlying cause of infection.

Recognizing Fever Symptoms in Children

Identifying fever in children goes beyond simply feeling their forehead. While a temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) is the clinical definition, there are other symptoms parents should be aware of:

Decreased activity and talkativeness
Increased fussiness
Reduced appetite and increased thirst
Feeling warm or hot to the touch

How can you accurately measure your child’s temperature? Rectal thermometers are generally considered the most accurate for young children. For older children, oral or tympanic (ear) thermometers can be used. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper use.

When to Treat a Child’s Fever

Not all fevers require treatment. The decision to treat should be based on the child’s comfort level rather than the temperature alone. Treating a fever will not help the body fight off the infection faster, but it can alleviate discomfort associated with elevated temperatures.

Are there any risks associated with untreated fevers? Children between 6 months and 5 years of age may experience febrile seizures, which are convulsions triggered by high body temperatures. While frightening for parents, these seizures are generally harmless and do not indicate epilepsy. It’s important to note that treating the fever does not necessarily prevent febrile seizures.

Special Considerations for Infants

For infants under 3 months of age, any fever (100.4°F or 38°C and above) warrants immediate medical attention. This age group is more vulnerable to serious infections, and fever can be a critical indicator.

Effective Methods for Reducing Fever in Children

When treatment is necessary, there are several safe and effective ways to reduce a child’s fever:

Administer age-appropriate doses of acetaminophen or ibuprofen (never aspirin due to the risk of Reye syndrome)
Dress the child in light clothing to prevent heat trapping
Encourage fluid intake to prevent dehydration
Offer a lukewarm bath (avoid cold water as it can cause shivering, which raises body temperature)

Is it safe to use alcohol baths to reduce fever? No, alcohol baths are not recommended as they can lead to alcohol toxicity through skin absorption and cause dangerous drops in blood sugar levels.

Hydration: A Crucial Aspect of Fever Management

Proper hydration is essential when a child has a fever. Elevated body temperatures increase fluid loss through sweating and rapid breathing, putting children at risk of dehydration. Encouraging fluid intake is vital for maintaining hydration and supporting the body’s natural cooling processes.

What are the best fluids to offer a feverish child? Water is always a good choice, but other options include:

Diluted fruit juices
Clear soups or broths
Oral rehydration solutions
Ice pops or gelatin desserts (for older children)

How can you tell if your child is staying adequately hydrated? Look for these signs:

Moist lips and mouth
Regular urination (light-colored urine)
Tears when crying
Normal skin elasticity

When to Seek Medical Attention for a Child’s Fever

While most fevers in children are not cause for alarm, certain situations require prompt medical evaluation. Parents should contact their child’s healthcare provider immediately if:

The child is 3 months old or younger with a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
The child has repeated fevers above 104°F (40°C), regardless of age
The child is younger than 2 years old and the fever persists for more than 24-48 hours
The fever is accompanied by severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, severe headache, stiff neck, or persistent vomiting
The child appears very ill, unusually drowsy, or unresponsive

What information should you prepare before calling the healthcare provider? Be ready to provide details about:

The child’s age and weight
Current temperature and method of measurement
Duration of the fever
Any other symptoms
Recent exposures to illnesses
Current medications

Fever Myths and Misconceptions: Separating Fact from Fiction

There are many myths surrounding childhood fevers that can lead to unnecessary worry or inappropriate treatment. Let’s address some common misconceptions:

Myth: Fever is an illness itself

Fact: Fever is a symptom, not an illness. It’s the body’s natural response to fighting infections.

Myth: All fevers are dangerous and must be treated immediately

Fact: Low-grade fevers (below 102°F or 38.9°C) in otherwise healthy children often don’t require treatment unless the child is uncomfortable.

Myth: Fever will keep rising if left untreated

Fact: The brain’s thermostat prevents fever from rising uncontrollably in most cases.

Myth: Teething causes high fevers

Fact: While teething may cause a slight temperature elevation, high fevers are not typically associated with teething.

How can parents stay informed about fever management? Regularly consult with your child’s pediatrician, stay updated on current guidelines from reputable medical organizations, and avoid relying on outdated information or unverified online sources.

The Role of Rest and Comfort in Fever Recovery

While medication and hydration are important aspects of managing a child’s fever, the role of rest and comfort should not be underestimated. Creating a restful environment can significantly aid in the recovery process and help alleviate the discomfort associated with fever.

How can you ensure your child gets adequate rest during a fever?

Provide a quiet, darkened room for sleeping
Use light, breathable bedding to prevent overheating
Offer comfort items like a favorite stuffed animal or blanket
Limit stimulating activities and screen time
Encourage naps throughout the day

What additional comfort measures can help a feverish child?

Apply cool, damp cloths to the forehead, wrists, and ankles
Use a fan to circulate air in the room (avoid direct airflow on the child)
Offer frequent small sips of cool water or ice chips
Provide gentle massages or back rubs to relax tense muscles

Is it normal for a child’s sleep patterns to change during a fever? Yes, fever can disrupt normal sleep patterns. Children may sleep more than usual or experience restless sleep. As long as the child can be easily awakened and is responsive, these sleep changes are generally not cause for concern.

Preventing the Spread of Infections in Households

When a child has a fever due to an infectious illness, taking steps to prevent the spread to other family members becomes crucial. Implementing good hygiene practices can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.

What are effective strategies for preventing the spread of infections?

Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
Using alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available
Covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing (preferably with a tissue or elbow, not hands)
Avoiding sharing utensils, cups, or personal items
Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces
Keeping the sick child separated from other children when possible

How long should a child with a fever stay home from school or daycare? Generally, children should remain home until they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications. However, specific guidelines may vary depending on the underlying cause of the fever and local health policies.

The Importance of Follow-up Care After a Fever

After a child recovers from a fever, follow-up care can be important to ensure complete recovery and address any lingering concerns. This is particularly true if the fever was high, prolonged, or associated with other significant symptoms.

When should you schedule a follow-up appointment with your child’s healthcare provider?

If symptoms persist or worsen after the fever subsides
If new symptoms develop during or after the illness
If the child seems unusually tired or weak even after the fever breaks
If there are concerns about potential complications or secondary infections

What should you discuss during a follow-up appointment?

Any lingering symptoms or concerns
The child’s appetite and energy levels
Any medications given during the illness and their effects
Preventive measures for future illnesses
Updates to the child’s vaccination schedule, if needed

How can you help your child fully recover after a fever? Encourage a gradual return to normal activities, ensure adequate rest and nutrition, and monitor for any signs of relapse or new symptoms. Remember that it’s normal for children to feel tired for a few days after a significant fever, but persistent fatigue should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Building a Fever-Ready Home: Essential Supplies and Preparations

Being prepared for fever episodes can help parents manage the situation more effectively and reduce stress. Having a well-stocked “fever kit” readily available can make a significant difference when illness strikes unexpectedly.

What should be included in a home fever kit?

A reliable thermometer (preferably digital)
Age-appropriate fever-reducing medications (acetaminophen and ibuprofen)
Oral syringes or medicine droppers for accurate dosing
Electrolyte solution or oral rehydration drinks
Cool compress or washcloth
Petroleum jelly for rectal thermometer use (if applicable)
A written record of your child’s normal temperature, weight, and any allergies
Contact information for your child’s healthcare provider and local emergency services

How can you ensure you’re using medications safely?

Always read and follow the dosing instructions carefully
Use the measuring device provided with the medication
Never give adult medications to children unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider
Keep a log of medication times and doses given
Store all medications out of children’s reach

Is it beneficial to have a home care plan for fever management? Absolutely. Creating a simple, written plan that outlines steps to take when your child has a fever can help you stay calm and organized. Include temperature thresholds for treatment, dosing information for medications, and criteria for seeking medical attention. Review and update this plan regularly with your child’s healthcare provider.

Fever in Children | Johns Hopkins Medicine

What is a fever?

A fever is defined by most healthcare provider as a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) and higher when taken rectally.

The body has several ways to maintain normal body temperature. The organs involved in helping with temperature regulation include the brain, skin, muscle, and blood vessels. The body responds to changes in temperature by:

Increasing or decreasing sweat production.
Moving blood away from, or closer to, the surface of the skin.
Getting rid of, or holding on to, water in the body.
Seeking a cooler or warmer environment.

When your child has a fever, the body works the same way to control the temperature, but it has temporarily reset its thermostat at a higher temperature. The temperature increases for a number of reasons:

Chemicals, called cytokines and mediators, are made in the body in response to an invasion from a microorganism, malignancy, or other intruder.
The body is making more macrophages, which are cells that go to combat when intruders are present in the body. These cells actually “eat-up” the invading organism.
The body is busily trying to make natural antibodies, which fight infection. These antibodies will recognize the infection next time it tries to invade.
Many bacteria are enclosed in an overcoat-like membrane. When this membrane is disrupted or broken, the contents that escape can be toxic to the body and stimulate the brain to raise the temperature.

What conditions can cause a fever?

The following conditions can cause a fever:

Infectious diseases
Certain medicines
Heat stroke
Blood transfusion
Disorders in the brain
Some kinds of cancer
Some autoimmune diseases

What are the benefits of a fever?

Fever is not an illness. It is a symptom, or sign that your body is fighting an illness or infection. Fever stimulates the body’s defenses, sending white blood cells and other “fighter” cells to fight and destroy the cause of the infection.

What are the symptoms that my child may have a fever?

Children with fevers may become more uncomfortable as the temperature rises. In addition to a body temperature greater than 100.4°F (38°C), symptoms may include:

Your child may not be as active or talkative as usual.
He or she may seem fussier, less hungry, and thirstier.
Your child may feel warm or hot. Remember that even if your child feels like he or she is “burning up,” the measured temperature may not be that high.

The symptoms of a fever may look like other medical conditions. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, if your child is younger than 3 months of age and has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, you should call your child’s healthcare provider immediately. If you are unsure, always check with your child’s healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

When should a fever be treated?

In children, a fever that is making them uncomfortable should be treated. Treating your child’s fever will not help the body get rid of the infection any faster; it simply will relieve discomfort associated with fever. Children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years can develop seizures from fever (called febrile seizures). If your child does have a febrile seizure, there is a chance that the seizure may occur again, but, usually, children outgrow the febrile seizures. A febrile seizure does not mean your child has epilepsy. There is no evidence that treating the fever will reduce the risk of having a febrile seizure.

What can I do to decrease my child’s fever?

Give your child an antifever medicine, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. DO NOT give your child aspirin, as it has been linked to a serious, potentially fatal disease, called Reye syndrome.

Other ways to reduce a fever:

Dress your child lightly. Excess clothing will trap body heat and cause the temperature to rise.
Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids, such as juices, soda, punch, or popsicles.
Give your child a lukewarm bath. Do not allow your child to shiver from cold water, as this can raise the body temperature. NEVER leave your child unattended in the bathtub.
DO NOT use alcohol baths.

When should I call my child’s healthcare provider?

Unless advised otherwise by your child’s healthcare provider, call the provider right away if:

Your child is 3 months old or younger and has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Get medical care right away. Fever in a young baby can be a sign of a dangerous infection.
Your child is of any age and has repeated fevers above 104°F (40°C).
Your child is younger than 2 years of age and a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) continues for more than 1 day.
Your child is 2 years old or older and a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) continues for more than 3 days.
Your baby is fussy or cries and cannot be soothed.

Fever | Boston Children’s Hospital

Your child has a fever if her temperature is 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

The body has several ways to maintain normal body temperature. The body responds to changes in temperature by:

increasing or decreasing sweat production
moving blood away from, or closer to, the surface of the skin
getting rid of, or holding on to, water in the body
naturally wanting to seek a cooler or warmer environment

What causes a fever?

When your child has a fever, her body works the same way to control the temperature but it resets its thermostat at a higher temperature. The temperature increases for a number of reasons:

Chemicals called cytokines or mediators are produced in the body in response to an invasion from a microorganism, malignancy, or other intruder.
The body is making more macrophages, which are cells that go to combat when intruders are present in the body. These cells actually “eat up” the invading organism.
The body is busily trying to produce natural antibodies which fight infection. These antibodies will recognize the infection next time it tries to invade.
Many bacteria are enclosed in an overcoat-like membrane. When this membrane is disrupted or broken, the contents that escape can be toxic to the body and stimulate the brain to raise the temperature.