Patient's question:
,Not taking a proper nap, taking fever-reducing medicine, and still feeling nausea and vomiting. Yesterday, due to a fever, the previous treatment and its effects were: acute upper respiratory tract infection, using Cefepime 0.24g, 0.9 saline 50ml. After the infusion, the fever subsided, but it returned again when I got home...Doctor's answer:
Most fever is caused by infections, with viruses being the most common, such as fever, influenza, measles, roseola, and epidemic mumps. The second most common cause is bacterial infections, such as tonsillitis, scarlet fever, and meningitis. Parasitic infections can also cause fever, such as malaria and kala-azar, but they are relatively rare. Non-infectious fevers include heatstroke, dehydration, leukemia, tumors, trauma, or post-surgical conditions. There are also diseases that impair heat conduction, such as generalized ichthyosis and hypohidrosis. Of course, it is sometimes difficult to distinguish, but once the situation is clarified, you can consult a doctor. Carefully observe the type of fever: use a household thermometer to accurately measure the axillary temperature and keep a record. Below 37°C is normal, below 38°C is a high fever, 38–39°C is moderate fever, and above 39°C is low-grade fever. Additionally, observe how long the fever lasts and what other symptoms accompany it.Medical Advice: Do not overuse antibiotics: Most households keep antibiotics on hand, and as soon as a child has a fever, they are immediately given various antibiotics. This is not appropriate. First, most antibiotics are ineffective against viruses and can instead suppress the body's immune function. Second, fever itself is a normal response of the body's defense mechanisms to eliminate pathogens. If you completely eliminate bacteria and viruses with medication, it will interfere with the division of phagocytes and the production of antibodies, disrupting the body's ability to strengthen its defenses. Therefore, do not use antibiotics too early.
Use antipyretics cautiously: High or moderate fever generally does not require antipyretic drugs, as premature cooling can also interfere with the development of the immune function. Moreover, drug-induced fever reduction often leads to excessive sweating and fatigue. Even with low-grade fever, medication should be used cautiously, with the minimum dose that can effectively reduce fever being sufficient. Do not take it continuously, and be especially careful with infants under six months old.
Advocate physical cooling: Physical cooling is much safer than chemical drug-induced cooling. You can apply cool towels to the forehead or use ice packs on the head and neck. Alternatively, you can bathe the child's head, chest, limbs, and palms with alcohol. If alcohol is not available, 54° liquor can be used as a substitute, as it also has the effect of cooling.
Children with fever should be given plenty of fluids and a light, easily digestible diet. Pay attention to oral hygiene, and maintain a comfortable room temperature, humidity, and air circulation. If the child's temperature remains high or returns after these measures, they should seek medical attention for a definitive diagnosis and follow the doctor's treatment advice.
The above advice is for the question "What should I do if my child has a persistent high fever?" I hope it helps you. Wishing you good health!