Most of us consider a fever or high temperature in children as an illness. But the truth is that fever is not an ailment in itself but usually a symptom of the underlying infection. Fever is actually nature's way of responding to a virus or an infection. The human body raises its core temperature to kill the underlying virus and fight infections. But if the rise in temperature lasts long, then it is a matter of concern.
A healthy child's body temperature is 37oC. If the temperature is higher than 38oC for more than 24 hours, then your child probably has fever. Most fevers are not serious and occur from infections, such as cough, cold, etc. But if the baby in under 6 months of age and has even a mild fever, then it is important to consult a pediatrician.
SymptomsThere are a few symptoms of fever to watch out for:
All being said and done, make sure to consult a doctor if the high body temperature lasts for more than a day.
A healthy child's body temperature is 37oC. If the temperature is higher than 38oC for more than 24 hours, then your child probably has fever. Most fevers are not serious and occur from infections, such as cough, cold, etc. But if the baby in under 6 months of age and has even a mild fever, then it is important to consult a pediatrician.
SymptomsThere are a few symptoms of fever to watch out for:
- High temperature in children is the primary symptom of a fever
- Chills, even when the body temperature is high
- Flushed cheeks
- Sudden vomits
- Infections are mostly caused by viruses which then lead to fever. Cold is one of the most common fever causing viruses? Other respiratory infections and some of the common childhood diseases, like chicken pox, also cause fever.
- There are some bacteria that causes infections. These needs to be treated with antibiotics. For example, a sore throat with a fever can lead to heart damage in infants if not treated early.
- Some fevers are caused by allergic reactions to different things, such as vaccines.
- High temperatures can cause dehydration, so make sure to keep giving your child light fluids at regular intervals. Fluids can include water, diluted lemon juice or other fruit juices that will make sure that they remain hydrated.
- Dress them in light clothing.
- At night, if they are experiencing difficulty in sleeping, you can always give them medication, such as Ibuprofen, in recommended doses, to help lower the fever and help them sleep.
All being said and done, make sure to consult a doctor if the high body temperature lasts for more than a day.