Patient's question:
An eight-month-old child has been feverish since last night, starting before dawn. When taken to the hospital for a check-up, their temperature was measured at 37.7°C. Yesterday, after taking medicine, they seemed fine in the afternoon. However, starting this morning, they developed a fever again, which subsided after taking more medicine. What could be the reason?Doctor's answer:
Physical cooling is the primary method, such as applying cold towels to the forehead, taking a warm bath (this is very effective), and avoid using alcohol for infants under one year old as it is too irritating to their delicate skin. Additionally, it is essential to drink plenty of water and consume vitamin C. If the baby's fever does not subside, and physical cooling is ineffective, medication can be used when the baby has a high fever (at least above 38.5℃), such as Tylenol or Advil. Note that the dosage is limited to 24 hours. This medication is specifically for fever reduction, and after the baby's temperature drops, antipyretic drugs should no longer be used. According to the World Health Organization's recommendations: if a child's fever does not exceed 39℃, and their general condition is good, it is generally unnecessary to use fever-reducing medication.Parents should strengthen daily care for their children, provide them with adequate nutrition, encourage appropriate exercise to enhance their immunity, ensure they drink plenty of water, eat more vegetables and fruits, and avoid overly greasy foods or excessive snacks. Dress children appropriately by adding or removing clothes as needed, maintain fresh indoor air to prevent colds, and avoid the indiscriminate use of antibiotics. Let children have a "three parts of hunger and cold" to ensure their safety. When a child has a fever, timely cooling, increased fluid intake, rest in bed, and a light diet are recommended, following medical advice to take medication on schedule.
Fever can be beneficial and harmful to the body. During fever, the immune system is significantly enhanced, which helps eliminate pathogens and promote recovery. Fever is also a sign of illness, so antipyretic medication is not necessary when the temperature is not too high. However, if the temperature exceeds 40℃ (39℃ for children), it may lead to convulsions, coma, or even severe sequelae, so timely antipyretic medication should be used.