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Fever in infants and children is a common problem that parents must face.
It is worth understanding its causes, how it manifests itself, and what steps to take if a child has a high temperature. In this article, we will discuss all the relevant information about it.
Fever in a child – how does it manifest itself?
Fever is a condition in which the child’s body temperature exceeds the norm, which is approximately 36.5-37 degrees Celsius. Symptoms of fever may vary depending on its severity, but the most common are:
- Increase in body temperature
- Chills
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- General weakness
In the case of infants and very young children, symptoms such as crying, irritability, lack of appetite, drowsiness and difficulty maintaining a constant body temperature may also occur.
Fever in infants and children – what can cause it?
The causes of fever in infants and children can be varied. Most often, it is the result of an infection, but it can also be caused by other factors, such as:
- Viruses such as flu, colds, and gastrointestinal viruses
- Bacteria that cause bacterial infections, e.g. throat or ear infections
- Chronic diseases such as asthma or rheumatic disease
- Vaccinations – short-term fever may occur as a side effect after vaccinations
- Teething in infants – may be accompanied by increased temperature
- Allergic reactions
When to go to hospital if your child has a fever?
In most cases, a child’s fever is a symptom of an infection or other mild condition. However, there are situations where immediate medical attention is necessary. You should go to hospital when:
- Body temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius
- The child is very weak and apathetic
- There are difficulties in breathing
- Skin rashes occur
- The child has convulsions
In the above cases, immediate medical consultation is crucial.
What to do if your child has a fever? how to reduce high temperature?
In the event of a fever in a child, it is worth following some basic rules of conduct:
- Stay calm – stress will only make the situation worse
- Keep your child in a suitably moist and cool room
- Dress your child in light clothes
- Give plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration
- You can use antipyretics as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist
However, do not use aspirin in children and infants because it may lead to a life-threatening condition called Reye’s syndrome.
Tips for parents of children with fever
Caring for a child with a fever can be stressful, but a few tips will help you cope better with the situation:
- Monitor your temperature regularly, but not too often – every few hours is enough
- Take care of your child’s comfort – provide him with peace and emotional support
- Consult your doctor if the fever persists for a long time or is accompanied by other disturbing symptoms
- Don’t use cold baths or compresses as they may make the situation worse
Your suggestions
Remember that every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. If you have any doubts about the procedure, always consult a doctor or pediatrician who will best assess your child’s health.
Recommended articles
If you want to learn more about children’s health, we also recommend reading articles on prevention, healthy eating and the development of infants and children. Finding the right information can help you better understand and cope with the various challenges associated with caring for a child.
Fever in infants and children can be a difficult experience, but with the right knowledge and support from parents, it can be successfully overcome. Remember that your child’s health is the most important thing, so do not hesitate to seek medical help when needed.