Fever
Fever is a prevalent symptom among children and can be associated with various factors, such as infections. It is essential to note that fever is not a disease but a manifestation of an underlying illness. To comprehend what fever entails, it’s vital to understand that the standard body temperature ranges between 97.9 and 99.9 degrees.
A child is said to have a fever if their body temperature exceeds 100.4 degrees. When a child exhibits a fever, it is crucial to be aware of the warning signs as it could be an indication of an array of possible causes. Therefore, identifying the underlying cause of the fever becomes paramount in seeking prompt medical attention and managing the child’s health.
How Do I Know If My Child Has A Fever?
First, touch his forehead and neck and feel if he is warm to the touch; if so, use a thermometer and take his temperature, then check if it is above 100.4º even in a warm environment.
You should know that not every increase in body temperature is a fever, but a fever is always a temperature increase. Other situations raise body temperature, such as extended exposure to the sun, high weather temperatures, or when children play or exercise for a long time that does not necessarily mean a fever.
Are There Other Symptoms Linked To Fever?
Fever, being a symptom of many diseases, can be associated to many symptoms. Here are the most frequent associations that allow you to make a suspicion:
Fever + mucus + cough: This can be an upper or lower respiratory tract infection such as rhinopharyngitis.
Fever + vomiting + diarrhea: May be caused by a parasitic or viral infection of the digestive tract.
Fever + painful urination + concentrated urine: Maybe a urinary tract infection.
Fever + rash: Maybe a typical childhood infection, such as chickenpox.
Many diseases have fever as the main symptom; however, the increase in body temperature is not a specific factor and does not allow for a diagnosis by itself.
Is There A Risk Of Seizure With Fever?
The answer is yes. Children have an immature nervous system that grows and adapts better to changes over the years.
When an immature nervous system senses sudden temperature changes, it is more likely that nerve discharges will occur, causing typical febrile seizures.
How Is The Fever Treated?
First, you must keep your child hydrated while has a fever because as the body temperature increases, fluid is also lost through sweating. The better the child is hydrated, the better he or she will respond to treatment and feel.
Once you have confirmed that the temperature is increased and that it does not stop with anything, immediately consult your trusted doctor or call our emergency contact numbers.
At Pediatrics of Sugar Land, we have the specialized equipment and medications to treat your child’s fever anytime, anywhere.
Finally, it may be necessary to use antipyretic medications; to lower inflammation and body temperature. Antipyretic pills are responsible for stopping the inflammatory response linked to the germ that causes the infection.
