Patient's question:
NoDoctor's answer:
Child has a fever, parents' minds must not get heated either. Stay calm, don't panic or handle things randomly. Follow these steps in order:1. Analyze the cause of the fever: Most fevers are caused by infections, with viruses being the most common, such as colds, influenza, measles, roseola, and epidemic tonsillitis. Bacterial infections are the next most common, 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 causes include heatstroke, dehydration, leukemia, tumors, trauma, or post-surgical complications. There are also diseases involving impaired heat dissipation, such as generalized ichthyosis or hypohidrosis. Of course, it may not always be easy to distinguish, but clarifying the situation can provide valuable information for the doctor.
2. 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 low-grade fever, between 38°C and 39°C is a moderate fever, and above 39°C is a high fever. Also, note the duration of the fever and any accompanying symptoms.
3. Avoid overusing antibiotics: Many households keep antibiotics on hand, and children are often given various antibiotics as soon as they have a fever. This is not appropriate. First, most antibiotics are ineffective against viruses and can even suppress the body's immune function. Second, fever itself is a normal response by the body to fight off pathogens. Using medication to kill bacteria and viruses can hinder the proliferation of phagocytes and the production of antibodies, weakening the body's ability to recover. Therefore, antibiotics should not be used too early.
4. Use antipyretics cautiously: Low-grade or moderate fevers generally do not require antipyretics, as early cooling can also affect immune function. Additionally, drug-induced fever reduction often leads to side effects such as excessive sweating and dehydration. Even for high fevers, medication should be used cautiously, with the minimum effective dose to control the fever. Avoid continuous use, and be extra careful with infants under six months old.
5. Promote physical cooling: Physical cooling is much safer than chemical drug-based methods. You can use a cool towel to (apply to the forehead), or place ice packs on the head and neck. Alternatively, you can bathe the child's head, chest, limbs, and palms with alcohol. If alcohol is unavailable, 54° liquor can be used as a substitute, as it also helps with heat dissipation.
6. Prevent high-temperature convulsions: Some infants and young children may experience convulsions when their fever reaches above 39°C. Symptoms include loss of consciousness, facial drooping, stiff neck, muscle twitching in the face and limbs, holding their breath, and bluish skin. This is due to the immature and unstable central nervous system regulation in children under three, with high stress sensitivity. Recent studies have shown that when a child's fever reaches 38°C, diazepam can be administered at a dose of 0.2 mg per kilogram of body weight. If the fever persists after 8 hours, a second dose can be given. This method is effective in preventing high-temperature convulsions and generally does not require a third dose. For children with a history of high-temperature convulsions or those with low calcium or epilepsy, diazepam should be administered promptly to prevent convulsions.
7. Other measures: Children with fever should be given plenty of fluids and a light, easily digestible diet. Oral hygiene should be maintained, and the room temperature, humidity, and air circulation should be kept comfortable.
If the above measures do not lower the child's temperature or if the fever returns after subsiding, medical attention should be sought. After a clear diagnosis, treatment should follow the doctor's advice.