A fever in a child is a good thing because it means the body is fighting an infection. But it can confuse parents when their child wakes up with a high temperature. Using a thermometer to check the temperature will help them understand what is causing the fever. It will also help them know when to seek medical attention.
Symptoms
Fever is a common symptom of illness and can be dangerous if it is undiagnosed or prolonged. While it can occur for several reasons, most fevers are caused by cold or flu viruses. Knowing how to spot a fever and practicing good hygiene will help you prevent colds and flu.
While fever is a common clinical symptom, its definition remains uncertain. Although there is some empirical evidence regarding fever symptoms, most descriptions are anecdotal and based on patient experiences. This means we cannot make a clear and comprehensive comparison of symptoms. Furthermore, the absence of a standard reference for measuring body temperatures makes it difficult to accurately assess whether a person has a fever.
Fever is a normal physiological response to infection, as the body’s immune system fights off infection. Nevertheless, if it rises above 100.4 degrees, it is a clear sign of a severe illness. Fever is often accompanied by sweating, muscle aches, and shivering. It can also cause a loss of appetite and general fatigue. Seizures may also occur in young children during high fever spikes. These are a concern for parents but are not life-threatening.
Causes
When a patient is experiencing fever, it is vital to consider the cause of the illness. Although many causes of fever are self-limiting, some can indicate an underlying medical condition. For example, fever may be caused by an infection, such as a viral infection. However, in some cases, fever may signify a more severe illness, such as cancer. In these cases, fever should be treated by a doctor.
There are many causes of fever, but some are serious and require immediate medical attention. Newborn fever, for example, can be due to sepsis or a bloodstream infection. Because newborns are less able to fight infection, it is crucial to seek medical help as soon as possible. Another cause of fever in babies is meningitis, a bacterial infection of the membrane that covers the spinal cord. This condition may lead to a stiff neck, headache, confusion, and brain damage.
The brain controls temperature through the hypothalamus, which increases or decreases body temperature. Fever occurs when the hypothalamus is set at a higher temperature than usual. Infected people develop a fever when exposed to pyrogens produced by microorganisms. The bacteria that cause these toxins secrete inflammatory cytokines, which activate the body’s immune response.
Treatments
While fever is a common symptom of infectious diseases, over-the-counter fever medications can help ease the symptoms and reduce the temperature. Medications that can be used for this purpose include acetaminophen, ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. A warm bath or washcloth can help soothe the body and reduce fever symptoms.
Although fever is a natural reaction to an infection, it is still essential to seek medical attention, mainly when the fever is prolonged and causes dehydration. Fever is often harmless in children, but it can be severe in adults and require immediate medical evaluation. The first step in evaluating a fever is to perform a physical examination. During this exam, the doctor will focus on possible causes. They may also listen to the heart and lungs to identify the cause of the fever.
Treatments for fever can include over-the-counter medicine and rest, but be sure to ask a doctor if the fever persists or if there are any other severe symptoms. Although over-the-counter medications can be effective in breaking a fever, they may cause liver and kidney damage. Also, avoid giving aspirin to children as it can cause Reye’s syndrome. In addition, patients with fever should drink plenty of fluids, which can counteract the dehydration that can come with a high temperature.
When to seek medical attention for a fever
Fever is a common symptom of illness. Typically, a fever is caused by an invading virus or bacteria that causes your body to raise its temperature. This is an essential response from your immune system, which helps fight off intruders. Unfortunately, it is also a symptom of some autoimmune diseases and drug reactions. You should seek medical attention if the fever lasts more than a few days.
While fevers are not harmful in themselves, they should not be ignored. A mild fever can be treated with over-the-counter medications. However, if a fever persists beyond three days or other symptoms accompany it, it’s time to get a doctor’s advice.
Fever in infants should be treated seriously. If the temperature exceeds 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s time to take your child to the doctor. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies under three months seek medical attention. A rectal thermometer is the most accurate way to measure fever in an infant, and an oral or tympanic thermometer is best for older children.