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A fever in a child is one of the most common disease symptoms in childhood. However, its height is not always an indicator of the severity of the disease.
Child fever – when are we talking about it?
An increase in body temperature at the level of 37-37,5 degrees Celsius is called a low-grade fever. The temperature above 38 degrees is feverish state, and above 40 degrees – hypothermia. High fever may be accompanied by violent general symptoms – chills, impaired consciousness, febrile convulsions.
During the neonatal and toddler period, many infections may proceed without fever. The development of fever in children of this age is not a symptom of infection, but rather of overheating, prolonged crying, dehydration or heat stroke.
How do you measure a child’s fever?
The important thing in determining the amount of fever is place of measurement – it is usually done in the armpit or groin. It should be remembered that the temperature measured in the rectum is 0,5 degrees higher than that measured “classically”. They are very useful in children (and not only) ear thermometers – they are accurate and the measuring time is very short. Whereas temperature measurements are made bar thermometers are indicative only.
Fever in a child – how to lower it?
You can reduce a fever in several ways. However, it should be remembered that too “radical” fight with moderate fever is unnecessary when the child is in good condition.
A feverish child should be watered cool liquids – unlike hot drinks, they do not raise body temperature. You should also avoid putting on excessively thick outerwear to your child and covering him with blankets, quilts or eiderdowns – this prevents the skin from evaporating and may raise the body temperature. In case of high fever, which is difficult to lower, it is recommended cool compresses for the head and abdomen (a lot of blood flows through these areas) and cool baths.
Medications for fever
There are a number too medications to lower fever. If it is necessary to use them (in young children it should be confirmed by a pediatrician), select preparations intended specifically for small patients (e.g. in the form of suppositories or syrups) and strictly adhere to the recommended dosage.
In addition to medications, it is also worth reaching for fever-lowering drugs herbal teas.
Fever in a child: when to see a doctor?
When a child has a high fever, malaise or other disturbing symptoms, consult a doctor. Especially feverish newborns and infants require urgent medical consultation in such a situation.
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