It's hot outside and the child has a fever. High temperature in a child

Whether it happens when the baby is a week old, a month old, or a year old, the fever certainly unsettles many parents. While we as pediatricians should urge you to develop a healthy attitude towards fever, as parents we are convinced that a proper understanding of the causes of a fever, its effects, and what may (and may not) be required to deal with it will help you prepare to overcome it. the first high temperature in a child and future cases confidently and without undesirable consequences.

Heat - a feeling of fulfillment comfort, usually due to an increase in temperature. This is a protective reaction of the body to the introduction of an infection or during important physiological processes. It is necessary to eliminate not the temperature but the causes of its occurrence. Therefore, the task is to support the child, help the body cope with the infection and restore balance. In fact, heat is an important factor in the fight against disease, as it stimulates the immune system and creates a temperature regime that is unfavorable for microorganisms.

The normal temperature is 36.6°C when measured under the arm and 37°C when measured in the mouth. At high temperatures, the pulse accelerates, breathing quickens and drowsiness appears.

An increase in temperature may be a reaction to infection, burns, heat stroke, or dehydration. Even fatigue or overexcitation can cause a mild fever. For proper treatment, the cause of the fever should be determined. This section discusses fever with common illnesses such as colds and flu, or without illness, such as teething or fatigue. Fever may be caused by constipation (see related section).

Immediate help is required for any of the following symptoms: neck stiffness (child cannot easily reach the chest with his chin), severe headache, vomiting fountain, loss of consciousness, severe pain in the abdomen, poor appearance of the child with a rapid deterioration. Also watch for signs of dehydration: dry mucous membranes, sunken eyes, short-term loss of consciousness, loss of skin elasticity, in an infant, the fontanel may be drawn inward. All these symptoms indicate a critical condition.

Elevated temperature value. The role of elevated temperature in the development of the disease is not yet fully understood, but long before modern medicine, traditional healers believed that the internal heat is the result of the action of vital energy, which thus heals the body from the disease. In the last century, the prevailing view in Western medicine was that fever is actually a disease, and therefore it should be reduced with aspirin, acetaminophenol and antibiotics.

Many experts in the field of naturopathy believe that temperatures above 38.6 ° C should be reduced because it can cause seizures or changes in brain cells. The temperature below 38.6 ° C does not need to be driven away.

You can’t wrap a child during a fever, on the contrary, you need to open his body so that the natural process of thermoregulation takes place. But during the chill, which manifests itself with a decrease or increase in temperature, the child needs to be wrapped warmly. The temperature should be reduced gradually, a sharp drop in temperature is a colossal burden on the heart, which can lead to sad consequences (convulsions, disruption of the brain or heart, etc.).

Modern studies of the human immune system have established that fever is not a disease, but an immunity stimulant. When the temperature rises, the body begins to produce chemical substances that fight infection. In addition, elevated temperatures are unfavorable for the development of many pathogenic microbes. In fact, medicine is beginning to recognize what our grandmothers and traditional healers have always known about. It may soon be recognized that widespread immune suppression contributes to the increased incidence of autoimmune diseases.

Heat has another effect that often goes unnoticed. When the temperature returns to normal, the child often demonstrates new abilities and skills, as if the heat were a developmental stimulus. After a fever, the child often becomes healthier and stronger, as if all the dross were burned away and pure gold remains. Of course, none of us wants children to get sick, but in our efforts to eradicate the disease by any means, we forget about the plans of nature itself.

How does the temperature increase. In children, the temperature rises significantly higher than in adults, sometimes up to 40 ° C. However, a high temperature does not always reflect the severity of the illness (for example, in a severe illness such as meningitis, the temperature may rise to as little as 38°C). In the heat, the child needs plenty of fluids and rest. Focus on treating the infection, not on the thermometer. With colds and flu, the fever may last for several days, but this is not a problem for a strong child if he gets enough fluids, is in bed and receives good treatment.

Seizures. With a sharp change in body temperature, the child may begin a convulsive seizure. Parents are very afraid of this condition, especially if they encounter it for the first time. The child begins to lose consciousness, he has involuntary convulsive movements of the arms and legs, urination, vomiting, sometimes his eyes roll.

Doctors believe that a convulsive state caused by an increase in temperature is not dangerous, provided that during convulsions there is no respiratory arrest. However, seizures may be associated with encephalitis or meningitis, so check with your doctor.

If the child is vomiting, turn him on his side so that he does not choke. Keep away all objects that the child can hit during convulsive movements during a spasm. Pet your baby and talk to him to calm him and yourself. Free his movements from uncomfortable clothing. A seizure can last up to 5 minutes. Stopping breathing is rare, but you must be sure that the child is breathing.

It is better to master the techniques of artificial respiration in order to behave confidently in the event of a convulsive seizure in a child.

If a seizure lasts more than 10 minutes, or if breathing stops, you should immediately call an ambulance.

After the seizure has ended, observe the child carefully for several hours. The seizure exhausts the child, and he usually falls asleep. Sleep is good, but still wake the child every 15 minutes to make sure he is conscious. If a seizure has occurred for the first time, it makes sense to check whether it is associated with a neurological disorder. Be prepared for the fact that the next time the temperature rises, a seizure may occur again. Some doctors recommend giving children medications to prevent seizures in such cases, but this is usually not necessary, and medications can cause side effects. Check with other doctors. Trust your intuition by evaluating the information and making the decision to take the recommended drugs.

With all the potential benefits that a rise in temperature provides, we must not forget that this is a signal of infection, and it must be treated carefully. Too often we send children to school when they are not yet fully healthy and do not give them the opportunity to fully recover from illness. When a child with a fever stays at home, he has the conditions to direct all his energy to recovery. Thus, complications or recurrence of the disease can be avoided. The absence of a temperature does not mean a complete recovery, so it is better not to take children to childcare facilities and school for as long as conditions allow. If you can't change your work schedule, ask a close friend or family member to babysit your baby.

Many therapists believe that one day after the temperature has dropped, the child should go outside, even if the residual effects of a cold have not completely disappeared.

Your intuition will tell you the burden of being in the air, but the entire subsequent rehabilitation period depends on it. A child who, in spite of everything, is taken out for a walk, recovers faster, because walking returns the body to its natural stability.

How to take off the heat

Before you read what to do if your child has a fever, let us first offer you some simple strategies for postponing your fever appointment as late as possible.

Because fever is the immune system's natural response to stress or infection, by giving antipyretics we suppress the body's instinctive response. If this is done frequently, there may be long-term negative effects. To reduce the fever a little, prepare a bath for the child with a temperature 1-2 degrees lower than the body temperature at the moment. Such a bath should please the child, and he will not complain that the water is too hot. Colder water will cause a shock reaction. Instead of a bath, you can simply wipe your forehead, temples, wrists and neck from the back with a damp towel.

According to many experts in the field of naturopathy, bathing a child during a fever can cause deterioration, especially if the cause of the fever is an infection. And vice versa, if the water in the bath is not higher than 8 ° C (it is better when it is ice-cold), then the child can be dipped into this bath, immediately wiped off and dressed warmly. This procedure has an antipyretic and healing effect.

Wiping with vodka or vinegar also lowers the temperature and cleanses the skin of pathogenic toxins.

Let the child sleep as much as he needs. Provide the necessary peace and quiet. When the child is awake, you can read a book to him. Play quiet games with him, such as checkers, or tell a fairy tale, there are many options for quiet activities. It is better not to turn on the TV - your company is preferable for a child.

The child's room should be fresh and cozy. Make the bed with clean linen and place flowers in the room. Diffused light, such as through thin window curtains, soothes puffy eyes. To freshen the air, place a container of water containing essential oils with a pure plant scent in the room. Rosemary, lavender, thyme, rose, lemon, eucalyptus and mint not only freshen the air, but also have an antiseptic effect.

At elevated temperatures, the child needs to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, remove microorganisms from the body and calm the nerves. Small children should be breastfed more frequently and given water every 15 to 30 minutes using a teaspoon or dropper. Older children can drink 1 glass of fluid every hour, preferably in small portions (Y4 glasses every 15 minutes). If the child is sleeping, wake him up from time to time to offer him a drink. Give him a straw so he can drink lying down. Herbal teas and diluted juices work well. You can make lemon water by simply squeezing a small amount of fresh lemon juice into a glass of water.

Until the temperature subsides, give your child fruits, steamed vegetables, and soups. Heavy food increases the heat. However, if the child is hungry, trust his appetite. Eliminate cold foods (such as ice cream) and dairy products until complete recovery.

At elevated temperatures, you can use herbs that calm the nervous system: they reduce the risk of a seizure. It should be taken daily tinctures of skullcap, passionflower and milky oats, taken in equal proportions of 1/4-1 teaspoon 2-3 times a day.

Homeopathic remedies aconite 30x or belladonna 30x.

Teas. For muscle pain, headaches, anxiety, indigestion, strong teas made from catnip, chamomile, lemon balm can be used alone or in combination. These herbs are completely safe, they act gently and are consumed in large quantities. Digestive problems can be solved with teas made from anise seeds or fresh ginger root.

Herbal baths. Baths with essential oils or aromatic infusions are very soothing. Add 5 drops of rosemary or lavender oil to a warm bath. The infusion of lemon balm, chamomile and lavender has the same effect.

Antiseptic herbs. If a child's fever is due to an infection, they should take antimicrobial herbs.

Echinacea root tincture. Give one drop per kilogram of weight every 2 to 4 hours, depending on the severity of the disease. Gradually, as the temperature decreases, reduce the dose and give the tincture less often.

Treatment should be continued for at least 3 more days after the temperature has returned to normal; I always give my kids echinacea tincture when they have a fever as it is a known immune booster.

Garlic. It is an excellent ally in the fight against any infections. You can use garlic alone or with echinacea. Older children can swallow a crushed clove of garlic along with a spoonful of honey every 4 hours. For small children, make garlic lemonade.

Flowers of elderberry, chrysanthemum and honeysuckle. From these plants, you can prepare antipyretic and antimicrobial infusions. Flowers are used in combination and separately.

Vitamin C. You need to take 250-500 mg twice a day, depending on the age of the child and the severity of the disease. Alfalfa sprouts, rose hips and violet flowers are also rich in vitamin C. If you want to give your child orange juice, prepare fresh (squeeze it yourself) and make sure it is at room temperature. Oranges tend to increase indigestion and increase mucus production. Large doses of vitamin C can cause indigestion.

Enema from the infusion of catnip. If the temperature is very high, you can make a warm enema with catnip (catnip) infusion. This will help prevent dehydration when the child drinks little (water will be absorbed through the large intestine). Never use for enema cold water- it can lead to shock. Do not force the enema, first explain to the child the need for this procedure.

OLD RUSSIAN RECIPE

Beet juice has antipyretic properties, in addition, it contains natural antibiotics. Dilute the juice of a small beet with hot boiled water (boiled water is absorbed by the intestines, and raw water is immediately thrown out) so that it corresponds to the internal temperature of the body. Make a microclyster (the child most often does not even feel it). Let the juice stay in the intestines for at least 15 minutes, so that the active substances of the beets have time to get into the blood. After the child cleanses the intestines, his temperature will not only decrease, but there will also be a noticeable improvement in his condition. Beetroot juice has the ability to cleanse the blood of toxins, which are the cause of "burning".

Most of the time, the fever will go down on its own, so all you have to do is support the baby and treat the illness that caused the fever. If your child does not tolerate temperature well, you can alleviate his condition by using the following safe remedies.

Infusion of curly mint leaves and elderberry flowers. Take 1/2 tablespoon of each plant and pour 1 liter of boiling water over it. Insist 20 minutes. Strain and sweeten if needed. Let the child drink warm and often until he sweats.

Infusion of catnip. Prepare as above: 1 tablespoon of catnip per 1 liter of boiling water.

Melissa infusion. Use 1-2 tablespoons of herb per 1 liter of water. Prepare as above. It is a soft drink with a pleasant taste. It can be given even to small children.

Treatment through breast milk. If a young child has a fever, the breastfeeding mother should take adult doses of the recommended remedies. The active substances of plants will get to the baby through milk. a

Meningitis and fever. Parents often associate fever with meningitis. However, in most cases, fever is caused by other causes, and with meningitis, the temperature may not rise at all or rise to 37.5-38.5 "C. The best thing you can do is to observe the general symptoms of the disease. Meningitis is a rare disease, which can lead to disability or death.

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL HELP

If you suspect meningitis, call an ambulance immediately. In this case, antibiotics are needed. Signs of meningitis: fever (temperature is not always high), stiffness or soreness in the cervical spine (check if the child can safely touch the chest with his chin), lethargy, vomiting, poor appetite, inconsolable crying, headache (sometimes children do not allow to be picked up), Sometimes an unusual rash appears. Newborns may not have specific symptoms, but they look bad. One of the signs in babies is a protrusion of the fontanel on the head.

Fever in babies

Instead of diving into the details of what exactly causes a fever and is it really worthy of your respect and fear, we first want to say what we think is our most important message to remember: discussing what to do with a newborn. with a high temperature is very different from the reasoning about temperature in older children and adults. The reason is simple: the younger the child, the less his immune system is ready to resist infection. Thus, summarizing, we can say that the best approach for young parents to a high temperature is always better to be safe than sorry. You don't have to hesitate whether or not to disturb your pediatrician about a fever: just dial his phone number. Of course, in most cases, high fever during the first few months is usually caused by the same cold virus that affects us all, but the risk of a newborn having a serious internal infection, although relatively small, is nonetheless real. For this reason, any infant in the first years of life with a high temperature must be urgently shown to a doctor. What happens after that depends on the age of the child and the circumstances. In some cases, the child just needs a thorough examination and observation. In others (especially in the first month of life), you should be prepared that the doctor will take a blood test, urine, and even cerebrospinal fluid in order to determine signs of infection. In general, the younger and weaker a child looks, the more likely they are to need hospitalization and antibiotic treatment in addition to the tests listed above.

In the absence of heat

While new parents are generally warned to take a high fever very seriously, we know that some serious infections can cause low or no fever in newborns. In the absence of fever, infants who appear less responsive than usual to external stimuli - ranging from slightly slow to almost lethargic - or who have trouble eating need to be taken very seriously, as are children with fever, to properly diagnose the cause. . If you have any concerns about your child's health, don't waste time sitting and waiting for a fever to appear before you see a doctor.

Overcoming Fear Factors

Now that we've convinced you to take your newborn's fever seriously, we also feel compelled to paint a bigger picture for you and show you that there's a fine dividing line between taking a fever seriously and living in constant fear. that the child has a fever. We hope that the following information will help to remove the fear factor and better prepare you for the correct behavior should this ever happen.

Built-in body thermostat

You may have heard on the news or read somewhere that heat plays its own role. We will not discuss this point of view for a long time and make you suffer by listening to all that we have learned in medical training and what has been confirmed during our medical practice, just remind yourself of this. A high temperature not only serves as a warning sign of infection, but in fact, according to doctors, it helps the body fight infection. A part of the brain called the hypothalamus is responsible for temperature regulation, just like a thermostat controls the temperature in your home. In general, babies and young children have much more sensitive thermostats than adults. When viruses, bacteria, or other fever-causing agents force the hypothalamus to rise to fight infection, body temperature rises. In this regard, the heat can be considered the equivalent of the situation when the thermostat is on.

definition of heat

The natural question that starts most discussions about heat is what kind of temperature can be considered heat? You should not think that you will be able to get an accurate answer to such a seemingly straightforward and so common question. There is a chance that if you do ask it, you will hear a fairly wide range of answers - from 37.2 to 38 ° and above. All this is because the heat is determined by several factors.

It's about degrees

Normal body temperature is 36.6°C. A rectal temperature of 38° is commonly used to detect fever in newborns. The interpretation of numbers falling between these two values ​​tends to vary considerably. This is partly because body temperature normally fluctuates throughout the day—usually rising slightly in the afternoon and into the evening. It is believed that the degree of variation increases with age. Although the temperature of a child and an adult can vary during the day by up to 1.1 ° C, you should know that the range of normal temperature variation in a newborn will be much smaller.

Using a thermometer

Looking back at the days when we were children, we can say with confidence that almost everyone used mercury thermometers to measure temperature. We'll save you a long discussion about the potential dangers of broken glass and the risk of poisoning from spilled mercury by saying just one thing - these thermometers are not just out of fashion, they're no longer recommended. From a practical point of view, this is also good: we still have not come across a person who would think that taking readings from mercury thermometers is easy. In contrast, affordable digital thermometers are all the rage right now, and they are (almost) completely reliable - put them in the right place and the numbers will pop up right away.

Hot spots - places of heat

The easiest way to classify thermometers is according to the part of the body where the temperature is measured (auxiliary = armpit, ear = in the ear, oral/nipple = in the mouth, strip thermometers = on the forehead and rectal = you know where). Strip thermometers, while very easy to use, have gained a reputation for being extremely inaccurate. Even when using the most correct methods of measurement, such as placing a thermometer in a child's mouth or armpit, the resulting temperature will vary slightly. That is why the definition of heat usually includes some reference to where the temperature was measured. You should be aware that almost all doctors recommend using only rectal thermometers for newborns, as the result obtained is considered the most accurate measurement of the basic body temperature of a newborn.

Heat places

To determine the high temperature, it is usually measured as follows:

• 37.2 °С - auxiliary
• 37.8°С - oral
• 38 °С - rectal

When you talk about temperature to your pediatrician, there is no need to add, subtract, or otherwise athematically manipulate the results based on where you took the temperature. Instead, just remember to say how and where you measured it.

Ear thermometers

Ear thermometers are offered to parents as a quick and easy alternative to rectal thermometers. They have proven their reputation as a relatively accurate way to measure temperature. If you already have one, don't give it up. Just be aware that it's best not to use this thermometer until your baby is at least three months old, because such a thermometer needs to be properly placed in the ear (and newborns' ear canals are extremely small), so it's hard for a newborn to get a correct reading this way.

Rectal temperature measurement

While you've probably read a lot about how to use each type of thermometer, we thought it best to spend your time and ours taking a closer look at the rectal approach. There is nothing strange about this: rectal temperature is considered the gold standard of measured temperature, especially in infants under three months old. When it comes to finding out if your child has a fever, nothing else should distract you. If you're cringing at the thought right now (and we're sure many of you are), stop for a minute to get used to the idea, and then follow the whole process through. Despite the fear that many parents experience, you just have to believe that measuring a child's rectal temperature is not at all that difficult or inconvenient for both the child and the parents. In fact, many parents who struggle to make their way to trying to take their temperature for the first time are pleasantly surprised when their children don't even notice. Some even just sleep during this "torture"!

The easiest way to carry out this procedure is to place the child on a comfortable, but firm, level surface. If you want, put it on your lap or on a changing table, sofa or floor - wherever you find it easiest and most comfortable. You can either place it on your tummy or on your back. If you prefer the supine position, then lift your baby's legs as if you were changing a diaper. It is worth remembering, no matter how you feel about it, that measuring rectal temperature may well provoke a bowel movement, especially in very young children. Therefore, it would be useful to put a towel or diaper under the back of the child in advance. Disposable thermometer tips are fine, but cleaning the thermometer after use is also easy. You can also apply a little lubricant (such as petroleum jelly) to the short, rounded metal tip of the thermometer. Then carefully insert the tip into the anus only to the length of the metal tip (between 1.25-2.5 cm). Then all you have to do is lock the thermometer in place by gently squeezing the halves of your baby's buttocks until the thermometer reads digital. When you take the thermometer out, be sure to wash it quickly with hot, soapy water (especially if you haven't used a disposable tip).

Then put it away so that you have it close at hand and remember for yourself that it is now "rectal use only", this does not mean that it cannot be used to take the temperature of others and in other places, but the thought that according to mistake it was then used differently, horrifies people!

Too wrapped up - overheated?

People usually believe that over-wrapped babies end up with a fever. This is true to a certain extent, since the temperature of the skin does rise noticeably when wrapped up and cools down when the child is undressed. If you measure the temperature of a wrapped child, it will have to be rechecked. On the contrary, it is considered that the rectal temperature is relatively unaffected by wrapping, especially if you get a measurement of 38 ° C or higher. Bottom line: never blame elevated rectal temperature on a sticky layer of clothing or blankets, especially if it doesn't drop.

Climate control

In general, there seems to be a consensus among childcare experts that a comfortable room temperature for children is between 20 and 22.5°C. However, there is a great deal of difference of opinion when it comes to suitable indoor clothing for the most small family members. Some believe that an adequately dressed infant is one who has as many layers of clothing as an adult in the same room. While others believe that one more layer is needed, one more than in adults. We don't really think there is that much of a difference, and we suggest starting with either.
Then, if you find that the child is uncomfortable - hot or cold, then change his clothes (take something off or add something) according to his internal thermostat.

feeling hot

Ditching the thermometer in favor of touching or kissing the forehead to determine if a newborn has a fever is not acceptable at all. Even in older children, for whom this way of "measuring" temperature without a thermometer can show whether they have a fever or not, you still cannot rely on your hand or lips alone to determine exactly how hot the temperature is. In other words, parents may be right in saying that an older child has a fever only because they feel it, but the real height of the temperature - 38.3 ° C or 39.7 ° C - can only be estimated with the help of a thermometer.

too much good

Febrile convulsions

Febrile seizures are seizures caused by high fever and fever. Although approximately 95% of all children never have a febrile seizure, we nevertheless found that even the very thought of it causes most parents a certain degree of anxiety - mostly unnecessary now and in the future. And that's why we thought we needed to give you a perspective on this so that you'll have that in mind in the coming months and years. In order to simplify your current state, we want to start by saying that the statistics are quite reassuring: newborns almost never have this type of seizure, because seizures, if they do, occur between 6 months and 5 years of age. Moreover, contrary to popular belief, the likelihood of having a febrile seizure is not based on the fact that the child has a fever, but rather on how quickly it rises. If a child is destined to have febrile seizures, they are more likely to occur during a fever rather than throughout the illness. And finally, to make things clear: febrile seizures do not in themselves cause permanent damage to the body and rarely serve as a harbinger of a long-term convulsive disorder.

fever treatment

It's easy and simple to tell you how to treat a fever in a newborn: if you suspect a newborn has a fever, your immediate action is to seek advice and help from a doctor. Everything you may know or have heard about fever-reducing drugs, warm baths, or the potential benefits of high temperatures at this age does not apply. End of discussion. Okay, since we're not really going to leave things like this, but we definitely mean it when we tell you not to worry about the information below if you don't want to. In fact, we don't want to give you the impression that there is no way to interpret fever in newborns without the involvement of your pediatrician. Then we thought again and decided that when it comes to motherhood and high fever, there are quite a few questioning minds who no doubt want to know more - at least for the future.

fever medicines

We do not intend to tell you when and how much antipyretics you should use for your newborn because a) this book is not about practical medicine; b) we have already told you about the golden rule - you must first and foremost call a pediatrician; c) your doctor

An increase in body temperature is possible with various diseases in childhood. At the same time, the question of whether to shoot it down causes a lot of conflicting opinions.

Some of the parents have heard that with a fever, the body fights the disease more actively, and if the temperature is brought down, the duration of the disease will increase. Others have heard that both its elevated values ​​and the drugs against it are very dangerous and threaten serious health problems.

As a result, some parents are afraid to bring down the temperature even in cases where this is required, while others give medicine to the crumbs even with a slight increase. Let's see what really needs to be done in these cases, and whether this symptom is a sign of the disease.

How to measure the temperature correctly?

Measurement in the armpit area is the most accessible and simple, therefore it is the most common.

However, there are other ways to measure:

1. In the mouth (oral temperature is determined). For measurement, a special thermometer in the form of a dummy is usually used.
2. In the rectum (rectal temperature is determined). This method is used when the child is less than 5 months old, since children older than six months will resist the procedure. A thermometer (necessarily electronic) is treated with cream and inserted into the baby's anus by about two centimeters.
3. In the inguinal fold. The baby is laid on its side, the tip of the thermometer is placed in a fold of skin, after which the child's leg is held in a position pressed against the body.

It is important that the child has a separate thermometer, and before use it should be treated with alcohol or washed with soapy water.

Also, when measuring, you must be guided by the following rules:

• In a sick child, measurements should be taken at least three times a day.
• Do not take the temperature if the baby is very active, crying, has taken a bath, is warmly wrapped up, and also if the air temperature in the room is high.
• If you take oral temperature, it should be done 1 hour before eating and drinking, or 1 hour after, as drinks and food tend to raise oral temperatures.

Normal values

Features of temperature in infants are inconstancy and a rapid increase in any disease. In addition, in infants under one year old, it is normally slightly higher than in older children.

The normal temperature for a child younger than 12 months is considered to be less than +37.4°C, and for a child older than 12 months - less than +37°C. These are indicators of temperature measurement in the axillary region, as well as in the inguinal fold. For rectal measurements, less than +38°С is considered the norm, and less than +37.6°С for oral measurements.

The most reliable indicators are given by the use of a mercury thermometer, and electronic thermometers have a significant error. To find out how different the indicator of an electronic and mercury thermometer is, measure the temperature with two thermometers at once from any healthy family member.

Classification

Depending on the indicators, the temperature is called:

• Subfebrile. The indicator is up to +38 degrees. Usually, this temperature is not brought down, allowing the body to produce substances that protect it from viruses.
• Febrile. The increase is more than +38°С, but less than +39°С. Such a fever indicates the active struggle of the child's body with the infection, so the tactics of parents should take into account the condition of the child. If it is severely worsened, antipyretic drugs are indicated, and medicines can not be given to a vigorous and calm child.
• Pyretic. Indicators on the thermometer from + 39 ° С to + 41 ° С. This temperature is certainly recommended to be reduced with medications, since the risk of seizures increases.
• Hyperpyretic. The most dangerous temperature is over +41°С. Seeing such an indicator on the thermometer, you should immediately call an ambulance.

pros

• Allows you to quickly diagnose many diseases in the early period and start timely treatment.
• With the influenza virus, high temperature is important for high levels of interferon, which allows you to successfully overcome the infection.
• At elevated body temperature, microorganisms stop multiplying and become less resistant to antibacterial agents.
• Fever activates the baby's immune system, increasing phagocytosis and antibody production.
• A child with a fever stays in bed, due to which his forces are fully directed to fight the disease.

Minuses

• One of the complications is the appearance of seizures.
• With a fever, the load on the child's heart increases, which is especially dangerous if the crumbs have rhythm disturbances or heart defects.
• With an increase in temperature, the work of the brain, as well as the liver, stomach, kidneys and other internal organs, suffers.

stages

To start the mechanism for raising body temperature, foreign substances that enter the child's body - pyrogens - are usually needed. They can be various infectious agents, represented by unicellular, viruses, protozoa, fungi, bacteria. When ingested, pathogens are absorbed by white blood cells (leukocytes). At the same time, these cells begin to produce interleukins that enter the brain with blood.

Once they reach the center of body temperature regulation, located in the hypothalamus, these compounds change the perception of normal temperature. The baby's brain begins to define a temperature of 36.6-37 degrees as too low. It instructs the body to produce more heat and at the same time spasm the blood vessels to reduce heat transfer.

In this process, the following stages are distinguished:

1. Heat is produced in the baby's body in greater quantities, but heat transfer is not increased. Body temperature rises.
2. Heat output increases and a balance is established between heat production and its removal from the body. The temperature is decreasing, but not to the norm.
3. Heat production is reduced due to the death of infectious agents and a decrease in the production of interleukins. The heat output remains high, the child sweats and the temperature returns to normal.

It should be noted that the temperature can decrease lytically (gradually) or critically (dramatically). The second option is very dangerous with vasodilatation and a decrease in blood pressure.

Is immunity really developed?

Numerous studies have confirmed that in some infections, elevated temperature contributes to a faster recovery. It was also found that the use of antipyretics for some time prolongs both the time of the disease itself and the period of contagiousness. But, since these effects do not apply to all infections that occur with high fever, it is impossible to talk about the unambiguous benefits of fever.

Scientific studies have shown that active compounds produced at high temperature (among them interferon) in some cases help to recover faster, and in some diseases they have a negative effect on their course. In addition, for many children this is a very dangerous condition.

What will happen if you do not bring down the heat?

For a long time, high temperature was considered a factor that could disrupt blood clotting and cause overheating of the brain. Therefore, they were afraid of it and tried to reduce it in every possible way. However, modern scientific research has shown that it is not the high temperature itself that leads to health problems, but the disease that manifests itself as such a symptom.

At the same time, doctors note that fever is dangerous for children with chronic pathologies of internal organs, symptoms of dehydration, impaired physical development or diseases of the nervous system.

The danger of hyperthermia lies in the large expenditure of energy and nutrients to maintain a high temperature. Because of this, the internal organs overheat and their function is impaired.

Maximum allowable values

It is determined primarily by the age of the baby:

If you see numbers on the thermometer above those indicated in the table, this indicates a high probability of a serious illness, therefore it is extremely important to urgently call a doctor with such temperature measurement results.

When are antipyretics needed?

It is usually recommended to bring down a febrile temperature if the child does not tolerate this condition well, however, there are situations when it is worth giving an antipyretic even with subfebrile indicators:

• If the child is less than 2 months old.
• When the baby has diseases of the cardiovascular system.
• In the past, the child had convulsions at a high temperature.
• If the child has diseases of the nervous system.
• When a child has hyperthermia caused by overheating.

Additional symptoms

High fever is rarely the only manifestation of a child's health problems. Other signs of disease join it.

red throat

Redness of the throat against the background of fever is characteristic of viral and bacterial infections affecting the nasopharynx. Such symptoms often appear with tonsillitis, scarlet fever and other childhood infections. The child complains of pain when swallowing, begins to cough, refuses food.

Runny nose

The combination of high fever and runny nose most often occurs with viral infections, when viruses infect the nasal mucosa. The child may also have symptoms such as weakness, refusal to eat, difficulty breathing through the nose, lethargy, sore throat, cough.

Cold feet and hands

The condition when, at an elevated temperature, the child has pale skin and its vessels are spasmodic, is called white fever. To the touch, the limbs of the baby with such a fever will be cold. The child usually has chills. This condition requires immediate medical attention. The child's body should be rubbed with the hands, but rubbing with water and other methods of physical cooling are prohibited. To relieve spasm of skin vessels, the doctor will recommend taking an antispasmodic, for example, No-shpu.

convulsions

Increased body temperature can cause seizures. For their association with fever, such convulsions are called febrile. They are diagnosed in children under 6 years of age with indicators above + 38 ° C, as well as in children with pathologies of the nervous system at any numbers.

During febrile convulsions, the child's muscles begin to twitch, the legs can straighten and the arms bend, the baby turns pale, does not react to the environment, it is possible to hold the breath and turn blue of the skin. It is important to immediately lay the baby on a flat surface with his head turned to the side, call an ambulance and not leave the baby for a minute.

Vomiting and diarrhea

Such symptoms against the background of elevated temperature usually indicate the development intestinal infection, however, they can also be caused by the use of certain products by a small child. In babies younger than 3 years old, the intestines have not yet fully matured, so those foods that are normally tolerated by older children can cause dyspepsia and fever.

In addition, the combination of fever with vomiting can signal not only the gastrointestinal tract. Such symptoms are characteristic of meningitis and acetonemic syndrome. In children younger than 7 years of age, vomiting may occur at elevated body temperature and without brain damage or digestive system. It happens at the peak of the temperature increase, usually once.

Abdominal pain

The appearance of complaints of pain in the abdomen against the background of fever should alert parents and cause an ambulance call. Serious diseases requiring surgery (for example, appendicitis), kidney disease, and diseases of the digestive tract can also manifest themselves in this way. To clarify the cause, the child will be prescribed tests and additional examinations.

No additional symptoms

The absence of other signs of the disease often occurs during teething, as well as in situations where the disease is just beginning (other symptoms appear later). High fever, as the only symptom, is often noted with kidney infections. You can confirm the disease with urine tests and ultrasound examination.

The reasons

An elevated temperature acts as a protective reaction of the child's body to the ingress of infectious agents into it, but it can also be due to non-infectious causes.

Diseases

Infectious diseases are a very common cause of fever:

Disease	How does it manifest itself besides high temperature?	What to do?
	The appearance of a runny nose, dry cough, complaints of sore throat, body aches, muscle pain, nasal congestion, sneezing.	Call a pediatrician, give plenty of fluids, if necessary, give an antipyretic.
Chickenpox or other childhood infection		The appearance of pain in the ear, as well as discharge from the ear, cough, runny nose.	Contact a pediatrician to examine the child and prescribe the appropriate treatment for the situation.
When to call a doctor? The doctor should be called in each case of fever, since only a specialist can determine what caused and how to treat the baby. Indications for an immediate call to the doctor are the following situations: The temperature rose above the indicators considered maximum for a certain age of the child. The fever provoked the appearance of convulsions. The kid is disoriented, he has hallucinations. If there are other dangerous symptoms - vomiting, abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, ear pain, rash, diarrhea and others. The child's temperature is elevated for more than 24 hours and during this time the condition has not improved. The baby has serious chronic diseases. You doubt that you are able to correctly assess the condition of the baby and help him. The child got better, but the temperature rose again. The baby refuses to drink and the parents report symptoms of dehydration. What to do? Often, not only adults, but also children suffer from colds and flu. However, not all cold medicines are approved for use in children. Fortunately, there is a children's form of AntiGrippin from Natur Product, which is approved for use in children from 3 years old. Like adult form AntiGrippin, it consists of three components - paracetamol, which has an antipyretic effect, chlorphenamine, which facilitates breathing through the nose, reduces the feeling of nasal congestion, sneezing, watery eyes, itching and redness of the eyes, and ascorbic acid (vitamin C), which is involved in the regulation of carbohydrate metabolism increases the body's resistance. Antipyretics In most cases, such medicines allow, albeit for a short time, to improve the condition of the child, allow him to sleep and eat. With sore throat, otitis, teething, stomatitis, these drugs reduce pain. Will rubdowns help? Used in the past, rubbing with vinegar, alcohol, or vodka is now considered harmful by pediatricians. Doctors do not advise wiping the child even with a cool towel, because such actions provoke vasospasm in the child's skin, and this, in turn, will reduce heat transfer. In addition, alcohol-containing liquids, when rubbed, will actively enter the child's body, which is fraught with poisoning of the baby. Rubbing is permissible only after using drugs prescribed by a doctor that relieve spasm of peripheral vessels. For the procedure, only water at room temperature is used. In addition, you can wipe the child, provided that the baby does not mind, since with resistance and screams, the temperature will increase even more. After rubbing the child should not be wrapped up, otherwise his condition will worsen. Food and liquid A child with a fever should drink often and a lot. Give the baby tea, compote, water, fruit drink or any other liquid that he agrees to drink. This is essential for heat dissipation through greater evaporation of sweat from the skin, as well as faster elimination of toxins in the urine. Feed the baby should be given in small quantities. Let the child eat according to his appetite, but not much, because when digesting food, the body temperature will increase. Both dishes and drinks offered to the child should have a temperature of about 37-38 degrees. Folk remedies It is recommended to drink tea with the addition of cranberries: it stimulates active sweating. At the same time, such a drink should be given carefully - in babies up to a year old, it can cause allergies, and older children should not use cranberries for any stomach diseases. Another wonderful folk remedy with an antiseptic and antipyretic effect is raspberries, which can be given to a child in the form of jam, juice or tea. But in cases where there is a risk of allergies, the use of raspberries is best avoided. How safe is the treatment? How many days does the child have a high temperature? It is not the fever itself that is dangerous for the baby, but the cause of the appearance of this symptom. If the parents do not know what provoked the temperature rise in the baby and the next day after the increase in the condition did not improve, and additional alarming symptoms appeared, you should immediately seek medical help. In this way, you will establish the cause of the child's illness and be able to act on it, and not just on a symptom. If the parents know the cause of hyperthermia, and it is not dangerous, the child was examined by a doctor and prescribed therapy, then the temperature can be brought down within a few (3-5) days, observing the child. If there are no positive changes in the course of the disease over the past three days, despite treatment, you should call the doctor again and undergo an additional examination. Rules After choosing a specific drug to reduce the temperature, determine the desired single dose according to the instructions. Antipyretics should be taken only when necessary. The next dose must be at least 4 hours after the previous dose for paracetamol or 6 hours for ibuprofen. A maximum of 4 doses of the drug can be taken per day. Medicine taken by mouth is washed down with water or milk. It can also be drunk during a meal - so the irritating effect of medicines on the gastric mucosa will be reduced. What medicines to choose? Paracetamol and ibuprofen are the drugs that are recommended in childhood with a high temperature. Both drugs equally reduce pain, but ibuprofen has a more pronounced and prolonged antipyretic effect. At the same time, paracetamol is called safer and is recommended as the drug of choice for infants in the first months of their life. Infants are often given such drugs in the form of rectal suppositories or syrups. This is due to the convenience of using these forms - they are easy to dose and give to the child. In older children, preference should be given to tablets, syrups and soluble powders. The action of drugs taken by mouth begins within 20-30 minutes after their use, and rectal suppositories - 30-40 minutes after administration. Suppositories will also be the most preferred option in the presence of bouts of vomiting in a child. In addition, syrups, powders, and tablets often contain additives for taste and smell, which can cause allergies. You may hear recommendations to take paracetamol and ibuprofen together or in alternation of these drugs. Doctors believe that it is safe, but not necessary. The combination of these drugs works with the same effectiveness as taking ibuprofen alone. And if you gave this medicine, and the temperature does not decrease, you should not give paracetamol additionally, it is better to immediately call an ambulance. Why shouldn't aspirin be given to children? Even in adulthood, it is advised to avoid the use of aspirin at a temperature if possible, and for children under 18 it is completely contraindicated. In childhood, aspirin has a pronounced toxic effect on the liver and is the cause of the development of serious complications, which doctors call "Reye's syndrome." With this syndrome, internal organs are affected, in particular the liver and brain. Also, taking aspirin can affect platelets, cause bleeding and allergies. In the room, lower the air temperature to 18-20 degrees to increase heat transfer (if the baby does not have a chill). You should also take care of sufficient humidity (60% is considered the optimal level), since dry air will contribute to the loss of fluid by the child's body and the drying of the mucous membranes. When choosing clothes for a child, make sure that the baby is not cold, but you should not overheat the baby with excessively warm clothes either. Dress your baby in the same way as you are dressed or a little lighter, and when the baby starts to sweat and wants to undress, let him give off more heat in this way. Limit the activity of the child, because some children run and jump even at temperatures above 39 degrees. Since movement increases the production of heat in the body, distract the child from active play. However, do it in such a way that the baby does not cry, because due to tantrums and crying, it will also rise. Encourage your child to read books, watch cartoons, or do some other quiet activity. It is not necessary to force the child to lie down all the time. 1 Instructions for medical use of the drug AntiGrippin There are contraindications. Need to consult a specialist

The temperature in a child in summer is as common as in other seasons. Naturally, in the cold season, the incidence in children is higher, but in the summer, viral and bacterial infections also occur. Therefore, it is important to determine the cause of fever in a child, especially if this happens in the summer.

Causes of high temperature in a child in summer

Although a fever is the first sign of a child's condition, it is also an important sign that the body is starting to fight off an infection. An important rule that every mother should know is that the temperature rises to kill the virus or bacteria that caused the infection in the baby's body. Therefore, temperature is a protective reaction.

How does body temperature rise? When a virus or bacterium enters the skin or mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, these pathogens immediately multiply in the upper layers of the cells of the body. Active reproduction of bacteria or viruses is necessary so that they can later penetrate into a larger number of cells and contribute to the development of diseases. Immune cells, which are located on all mucous membranes, are the first to be activated under the influence of the action of pathogens. Lymphocytes are immune cells that, when pathogens enter, are activated and try to capture and neutralize them. At the same time, lymphocytes secrete biologically active substances that activate more and more cells of the immune system in order to better fight infection.

The center of temperature regulation is located in the hypothalamus - a part of the brain. It regulates body temperature. This temperature can normally fluctuate, but only within certain limits, it is not higher than 37.5 degrees in the norm. This temperature allows you to maintain a stable environment of the body and in such conditions the body functions normally and stably.

Thus, it should be noted that the normal temperature in a child up to a year old, and even in older children, should not exceed 37.5 degrees.

The other two groups of neurons in the hypothalamus in the thermoregulatory center are the neurons for heat production and heat loss. They regulate the temperature and, if necessary, switch to one or another level in order to maintain a normal temperature.

The concept of "temperature" in a child can have several meanings and does not always indicate the disease. Temperature disturbances can be in the form of fever, physical hyperthermia and hyperthermia syndrome.

Fever is a typical process that is characterized by a restructuring of the thermoregulatory center and is pathological, more often it is a response to an infection.

Causes are factors that can cause fever in a child. It is the pyrogens that are the direct cause of the temperature in the baby.

By origin, exogenous and endogenous pyrogens can be distinguished. Exogenous pyrogens can be of infectious and non-infectious nature. Infectious causes of fever in a child are bacterial toxins, bacterial wall structures, viruses, fungi, rickettsia and other living microorganisms.

Non-infectious causes that can cause an increase in body temperature are blood transfusions, the introduction of serum, parenteral nutrition drugs.

Also, the cause may be endogenous factors - products of tissue breakdown, for example, with bone fractures, which can also cause fever.

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of an increase in body temperature in a child lies in the action of pyrogens. When leukocytes capture pathogens, substances called interleukins are released in the process. They pass through the blood-brain barrier with the blood flow and increase the permeability of membranes for calcium ions in the vessels of the brain. Calcium ions activate phospholipase A2, which releases phospholipids from cell membranes, followed by the formation of arachidonic acid. Under the action of the enzyme cyclooxygenase, arachidonic acid is converted to prostaglandin E2. The function of this substance is to decrease the sensitivity of the set point neurons to the impulses that come from the thermostat neurons. Thus, normal body temperature is perceived as reduced, which leads to inhibition of heat transfer centers and activation of heat production. This leads to an increase in body temperature. Since many bacteria and viruses have adapted to the human body, a comfortable temperature for their reproduction is a body temperature of up to 37.5. At higher numbers, proteins are destroyed and pathogens die. Therefore, an increase in temperature in a child leads to the death of pathogens and is a protective reaction. Also, an increase in temperature during an infection in a child has other positive aspects - this is an increase in the sensitivity of bacteria to antibiotics, an increase in antibody synthesis, and an increase in phagocytosis. Elevated temperature enhances the antitoxic function of the liver and the excretory function of the kidneys.

Children have some features with an increase in body temperature. Premature babies and babies with malnutrition do not have fever due to the immaturity of the thermoregulatory center. Premature babies and babies up to a year old easily give in to overheating and hypothermia. In children of the first three to four months, fever, as a rule, is subfebrile, despite the severity of the disease.

Also an important factor for children of the first year is that the development of fever in them occurs due to increased heat production during the breakdown of brown fat, and heat transfer in such children is poorly developed due to underdevelopment of vasoconstrictor reactions.

Therefore, when a child has a temperature of 37 in the summer, this is normal, because they cannot regulate the temperature as much as adults. In such cases, you need to undress the child and provide him with normal sweating.

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Symptoms of a high temperature in a child in the summer

Symptoms of viral and bacterial pathologies depend on which pathogen has entered the body and what disease will develop.

The first signs of disease are often nonspecific. And it is the temperature in a child that is the first sign that he is sick.

Viral infections occur even in summer, especially if the child is overheated and then bathed, this reduces the reactivity of the body and he can get some kind of virus. When viruses enter the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, they multiply and destroy the cells of the mucous membranes. So there are symptoms of the disease - discharge of mucus from the nose, coughing. Along with this, the body temperature rises. A viral infection has specific symptoms, and since every mother has experienced it, there is no difficulty in recognizing the symptoms. If the child has more pronounced nasal congestion, sneezing, mucous discharge against the background of hyperthermia, this is viral rhinitis. If there is coughing, sore throat and redness of the throat, it is pharyngitis. Often in young children these symptoms are combined, then we are talking about nasopharyngitis.

Such viral infections are not accompanied by a high temperature, more often it is a subfebrile or moderate fever.

Why do children have cold hands and feet at high temperatures? This is due to the peculiarities of the regulation of vascular tone. With an increase in body temperature, to reduce it, it is necessary that the vessels of the arms and legs expand, which leads to an increase in heat transfer. But in some children, the regulation of vascular tone does not occur in this way, and their peripheral vessels are constricted. Therefore, against the background of hyperthermia, the child's legs and hands are cold. This feature reduces the rate of decrease in body temperature in children, so they need a slightly different tactics to reduce temperature.

If bacteria enter the lower respiratory tract, pneumonia or bacterial bronchitis develops. Symptoms develop sharply against the background of high fever (39 and above degrees). There is a cough, general malaise, there may be pain in the chest. Since inflammation of the lungs involves part of the lung tissue in the process, symptoms of respiratory failure often appear - the muscles of the chest are drawn in.

Severe bacterial bronchitis is sometimes very difficult to differentiate from pneumonia and only a doctor can do this.

Otitis in children of the first half of life can be the cause of high temperature, even in summer. These babies have a very short auditory tube, so infections can easily enter the ear. At the same time, the symptoms for the mother are completely incomprehensible - a high body temperature appears sharply, and the child screams loudly, refusing to eat. These may be the only manifestations of otitis media.

The temperature in a child for no reason in the summer is less often associated with epidemic diseases of viral and bacterial etiology, but more often it can be caused by digestive disorders.

It often happens that in the summer the temperature of a child at sea rises, then you need to think about poisoning. The sea is a source of various pathogens, as well as a place where children eat different foods. Therefore, if children have a fever and abdominal pain appears, then you need to think about possible food poisoning, even if there were no errors in eating. After all, many viruses and bacteria are transmitted not only with spoiled food, but also with hands and dirty water. Often at sea there is an outbreak of viral diarrhea caused by rotavirus. This is a pathogen that causes fever, abdominal pain, loose stools. These symptoms require a doctor's examination for proper treatment.

Complications and consequences

The consequences of improper treatment of a bacterial infection are very serious - bacterial complications can develop. With the development of pneumonia, which is not treated on time, abscesses can form in the lungs. If we talk about the consequences of viral or bacterial diarrhea, then there may be severe dehydration of the child, and the smaller the baby, the more serious the complications.

Complications of the fever itself often occur in children of the first year of life in the form of simple febrile convulsions. This is a twitching of the child's muscles with loss of consciousness, but it itself is interrupted and does not threaten the life of the child.

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Diagnosis of high temperature in a child in summer

When a child has a fever, it is often difficult for a mother to determine what exactly caused it if there are no other signs. And most often the temperature is the first symptom, and then after a day other symptoms appear.

What should a mother pay attention to if a child has a fever? First of all, you need to determine what level of temperature rise and how dangerous it is. Based on this, the mother can predict the severity of the disease and its first actions.

There are several types of fever:

1. subfebrile fever is an increase in temperature at the level of 37.5 - 38 degrees;
2. moderate fever - an increase from 38 to 39 degrees;
3. high fever is a level from 39 to 41 degrees;
4. hyperpyrexia is a temperature above 41 degrees.

If the mother took the temperature and determined the subfebrile fever, then it is likely that it may be caused by a cold, or you need to repeat the measurement after a while, because it is possible that the fever has not yet reached a sufficient level. In such cases, you should not immediately panic and run to the doctor, because an experienced mother must take the first steps to treat a viral infection herself, and only after a few days, if the condition does not improve or there are symptoms of anxiety, then contact the doctor. It is important that the mother herself can diagnose a viral pathology, because it is not so difficult according to the symptoms that were listed. This will help to start treatment of the fever and the viral infection itself earlier, and will speed up the recovery of the child.

If the child has a moderate and high temperature, then the diagnosis should be carried out by a doctor to exclude a bacterial infection that requires specific treatment. When examining a child with a high fever, attention should be paid to the anamnestic data with the determination of the duration of the disease. It is important to understand how many days a child has a temperature in order to understand the possible etiology of the disease.

Inspection should begin with the elimination of symptoms of a cold, and then you need to examine the throat. A red throat can be a sign of a viral infection, but it can also be a sign of a bacterial infection. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention in the diagnosis to the presence of raids on the tonsils.

Tests are often needed to confirm the bacterial etiology of the disease. But if your child has a fever without other symptoms, or if the temperature is moderate or high for three days or more, then a complete blood count is required before any measures are taken. A blood test allows us to talk about the severity of the inflammatory process and makes it possible to confirm or exclude the bacterial etiology of the disease.

If we are talking about an increase in body temperature against the background of diarrhea, then the tests should exclude rotavirus infection. For this, there is a blood test for the presence of antibodies to this virus, which after a few days makes it possible to confirm the diagnosis.

Instrumental diagnostics at elevated temperature can be carried out to identify the source of infection. Most often, if pneumonia is suspected, the doctor prescribes an X-ray examination of the chest. It is indicated in the presence of auscultatory changes in the lungs, which are characteristic of inflammation, or in the absence of such accurate data, but in a child with a high fever for more than three days.

Diagnosis of temperature in a child in the summer, especially in children of the first year of life, should be carried out with the exception of the possible physical overheating of the baby. It has already been shown that thermoregulation in children of this age is not ideal, therefore, under the action of the sun, high temperature, or simply in a stuffy room, the baby's temperature may rise. Therefore, it is necessary to differentiate in such cases and exclude local or systemic overheating of the child.

Differential Diagnosis

Differential diagnosis of hyperthermia should be made primarily between a cold as the cause of hyperthermia and a possible bacterial infection. The main differential factor in this is the level of temperature increase: subfebrile temperature is characteristic mainly for ARVI in a child, and moderate and high temperature for bacterial infections. However, this rule does not quite work for children of the first year of life, and the absence of temperature or its low level does not mean that the child is healthy.

It is necessary to note one more condition that needs to be differentiated when a child has a temperature. Hyperthermic syndrome can be observed as an isolated hereditary disease. This is a pathology of the hypothalamus, which is caused by a gene mutation that disrupts the work of the hypothalamus and leads to dysregulation of the thermoregulatory center. This is manifested by a constant high level of body temperature in a child, which is not amenable to drug correction in sufficient volume. Such a pathology manifests itself immediately after birth or in the first months of life.

Treatment of high fever in a child in summer

Treatment of fever implies several points - this is etiotropic treatment, that is, directed to the source of fever, as well as pathogenetic treatment. Pathogenetic treatment is aimed at eliminating the main element of hyperthermia - inhibition of the cyclooxygenase enzyme. Such treatment just involves the use of antipyretics, and the mother should always start with it, and then figure out the reason.

Antipyretics for children are limited to only two drugs that can be taken by children up to a year and older. There are other drugs, but they can only be taken from the age of 12, and some are not used at all in children due to toxicity.

1. Paracetamol (Infulgan, Panadol, Piaron, Cefekon) is an antipyretic that is approved for use in children. The way it is used can be different, depending on the age of the child. Mom can use the most convenient way, since the drug is also available in the form of tablets, capsules, suppositories, and also in the form of syrup. The dosage of the drug is carried out on the weight of the child, which is important to consider, since, with an insufficient dose, the drug may be ineffective. Therefore, you need to correctly calculate the dosage of the drug. How to do it? Regardless of the form of release, the drug is dosed at 10-15 milligrams per kilogram of the baby's weight. The dosage is often indicated on the package according to the age of the child. But modern children often do not fall into their age limits, so you need to calculate the dose by weight. For example, a child at 9 months weighs 10 kilograms (such a weight is typical for a one-year-old child), then the dose for its weight is 100 milligrams (10 kilograms per 10 milligrams of medication is equal to 100 milligrams). In Paracetamol syrup, the package always indicates the dose of the substance in 5 milliliters - this is 120 milligrams in this case. Since we need 100 milligrams for our nine-month-old baby weighing ten kilograms, this corresponds to four milliliters of medicine. So, a single dose of the drug is 4 milliliters. Precautions - the drug, like other drugs, can not be overdosed. It is also not recommended for children with liver pathology and prolonged jaundice.
2. Ibuprofen (Nurofen, Bofen, Ibufen) - the second antipyretic, allowed in pediatric practice. This drug is also available in different forms. In addition to antipyretic properties, it has an analgesic effect and anti-inflammatory. The dosage of the drug is 8-10 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. The dose should also be calculated individually according to the weight of the child. Precautions - it is not recommended to use for chicken pox, as well as for kidney pathology in a child. Side effects can be in the form of an effect on the stomach, the hematopoietic system.
3. Mefenamic acid is a drug whose active ingredient is the drug of the same name, which acts on the principle of all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The drug is used according to the instructions from the age of five, but for better safety it is recommended to use it from the age of twelve. Method of application in the form of tablets. The dosage is from half to one tablet per dose, but not more than three per day. Precautions - do not use in case of pathology of the cardiovascular system. Side effects can be in the form of allergic manifestations and reactions from the regulation of pressure.
4. Analdim is a combined antipyretic for children, which includes analgin with diphenhydramine. The products contained in this drug are not approved for use in pediatric practice. But if the child has a temperature that is very high and does not lend itself well to other methods, then this drug can be used. The method of application of the drug is only rectal in the form of suppositories. The drug is dosed at 100 milligrams and 250 milligrams in one suppository. For children from one to four years old, a dosage of 100 is prescribed, and for children from 4 years old - 250. Precautions - do not overdose the drug, as it can cause a hypnotic effect. Side effects can be in the form of liver damage, oppression of hematopoiesis, development of bleeding from the stomach.

With such a situation, when a child has a temperature of up to 38 for no apparent reason, there are no other symptoms of malaise, many parents face. Their anxiety is fully justified, because the condition of the baby can worsen very quickly, while he is not able to tell exactly what is bothering him. The most reasonable thing is to contact a pediatrician and, if necessary, conduct an examination. This condition is not always a sign of illness. But in some cases, it is simply necessary to seek medical help.

Content:

Possible Causes of Asymptomatic Fever

The child's body is distinguished by a number of features that make it more vulnerable to pathogens and increase possible reactions to the impact of negative factors. These features include weakened immunity, as well as incomplete development of the organs of the respiratory, nervous and other body systems.

The reasons for the asymptomatic increase in the medical thermometer can be divided into 2 types:

1. Not associated with the development of infection in the body.
2. Associated with the ingestion of bacteria or viruses.

Sometimes the absence of symptoms is apparent, only a doctor can notice them.

Causes of a non-infectious nature

Often in children, especially in the first year of life, an increase in temperature is associated with the physiological characteristics of the body, the reaction to drugs, and the manifestation of allergies.

Overheating of the body

It is enough for a baby to stay in a hot room (especially if he is warmly wrapped up) so that his imperfect thermoregulation system does not work. In this case, an increase in body temperature up to 38-38.9 ° is possible. In order to reduce it, it is enough to undress the baby, give him the opportunity to lie down without a diaper, take off his hat and top blouse.

A long stay under the rays of the sun can cause a rise in temperature even in an adult, not to mention a small one. In this case, a cool shower will save you from overheating.

The temperature can also rise when the child is not properly dressed during sports or outdoor games. Too warm, poorly breathable clothing creates all the conditions for overheating.

Teething

From about 5-6 months, baby teeth begin to erupt. An increase in temperature may be the first sign of this process. Such a symptom as increased salivation sometimes goes unnoticed, since it appears as early as 2 months. But during the examination of the oral cavity, it is clear that the gums are reddened. The baby tries to relieve the itching, so he pulls various objects into his mouth. There are special devices, teethers, which are given chilled to babies. Gels for the gums allow you to ease the pain.

After 5 years, the problem reappears, as permanent teeth begin to erupt in place of the falling milk teeth. Inflammation of the gums leads to an increase in temperature up to 38 and more, especially when the molars appear.

Vaccination

Often the temperature rises after vaccination. If the baby is healthy, then after 1-2 days the state of health is restored.

If in adults an increase in temperature to 37-37.2 ° most often indicates a painful state of the body, then for babies this value is considered normal, a short-term increase to 38-38.9 ° is possible. Thermoregulation is especially weakened in babies with birth injuries, premature newborns, and those with congenital diseases (heart disease, for example).

If the reason for the deviation from the norm is understandable, do not immediately give the baby medicine. First of all, it is necessary to eliminate adverse factors and constantly monitor its condition. An antipyretic is given when the baby is naughty due to the temperature, cannot sleep normally.

Allergic reaction and overexcitation of the nervous system

Sometimes the occurrence of fever is a kind of symptom of an allergy to certain foods (for example, honey) or medicines.

In some children with increased nervous excitability, the values ​​\u200b\u200bmay jump up to 38.1-38.9 ° on the eve of some exciting event, during school exams. Even the experience of an unfair parental reproach leads to a similar reaction of the body. After the child calms down, the condition usually returns to normal.

Video: Causes of asymptomatic fever in children

Fever associated with infection

The temperature rises to 38-39 ° due to the ingestion of viruses or bacteria. Moreover, a similar symptom in a viral disease is the only symptom of the disease. Viruses are viable for several days and are not susceptible to antibiotics. As a rule, on the 3rd day, the temperature begins to decrease, and in the absence of complications, after 6-7 days the child fully recovers.

Bacteria do not die on their own, they are the cause of inflammatory processes. In this case, the asymptomatic course of diseases is almost impossible. The defeat of the respiratory system leads to the appearance of a prolonged cough, sore throat, wheezing.

Bacterial damage to the intestines is characterized by indigestion, abdominal pain. But, for example, with inflammation of the bladder and other organs of the urinary system, it is not always possible to notice any other manifestations, except for a persistent temperature. Frequent urination (especially in babies who wear diapers) is difficult to notice, because, unlike adults, they usually do not experience any pain associated with such diseases.

Therefore, when contacting a doctor about an incomprehensible increase in temperature, first of all, a urine test is done, which shows the number of leukocytes, which increases in the presence of inflammation. It is important to pay attention to its color. If the urine is dark, this indicates that blood has entered it from the vessels affected by the infection.

Note: There is a sign that suggests what kind of infection has entered the body. Redness of the face and ears in a child with fever is characteristic of a viral disease. Antipyretics will help bring down the temperature. And if he has a fever, but the skin is pale, this is most likely a bacterial process that requires antibiotic treatment.

When to See a Doctor

At elevated temperatures, it is necessary to consult a doctor in the following cases:

1. If this condition is accompanied by regurgitation or vomiting. The cause may be poisoning or intestinal disease.
2. Even minor skin rashes are found.
3. Fever persists for more than 3 days even in the absence of other symptoms. Perhaps the appearance of a latent form of a disease (otitis media, pharyngitis) or an exacerbation of a chronic disease (rheumatism, diabetes, and others).
4. The temperature of 38 ° does not subside in the baby or rises to 39 and above in a child aged 2-5 years. After 6 years, a temperature of 40 or more is considered dangerous.

Sometimes an increase in temperature in a child is accompanied by a symptom of a failure in the implementation of the process of nervous regulation, the appearance of seizures. If such a condition has occurred at least once, it is necessary to use an antipyretic agent to prevent the temperature from rising above 38 °. In the event of seizures, you should call an ambulance.

Asymptomatic fever can be avoided. Preventive measures are:

1. Prevention of overheating by choosing the right clothing according to the weather, taking into account physical activity.
2. Protecting the child's body from dehydration. It is necessary to give the child enough liquid. Its lack in the body may indicate rare urination or crying without tears.
3. Monitoring the psycho-emotional state. It is necessary to avoid stressful situations and overloads of the nervous system of babies, to observe sleep patterns.
4. Exclusion of contact with allergens and treatment of the child with medicines not prescribed by a doctor.
5. Compliance with the conditions of temperature and humidity in the room where the baby is located.
6. When monitoring the temperature of an infant, it must be borne in mind that after feeding or crying, it always rises, therefore, to determine the average value, it must be measured at different times of the day (using the same thermometer).

To prevent dehydration, in addition to milk, babies should be given water or tea.

Warning: The baby must be protected from overheating under the rays of the sun (ensure staying in the shade), avoid bathing in hot water.

Video: How and when to reduce the temperature in a child

What to do if the fever persists

If a child has a fever in the absence of obvious causes of malaise, one should limit his physical activity, relieve stress. It is not recommended to bathe the baby in the bath. Drinking plenty of water helps to reduce body temperature and prevent dehydration. If a child refuses to eat, he should not be force-fed.

The air in the room should be cool and humid, the room should be ventilated frequently. It is impossible to wrap up and warmly dress the baby too warmly.

Subfebrile temperature (37.2-37.5 °) is usually not knocked down. If there is a prolonged temperature above 38 without symptoms, antipyretics based on paracetamol (panadol, efferalgan, mexalen) or ibuprofen (nurofen, ibufen) are given.

For babies under 1 year old, they are available in the form of candles. They are usually administered at night after a bowel movement. The action of such an antipyretic agent begins after 40 minutes. Up to 6 years, medicines in the form of syrups are used. Improvement occurs in about half an hour. At an older age, drugs are prescribed in the form of tablets.

You can not use aspirin, analgin, as their repeated use leads to the occurrence of gastrointestinal bleeding in children, disruption of the liver and kidneys.

Subsequent medication is allowed no earlier than 4 hours later. It is necessary to take into account the possibility of an allergic reaction, study the instructions for clarification of side effects, observe the age dose.

To reduce fever, children should not be given enemas (unless they have been prescribed by a doctor), or wiping the skin with vodka. Self-medication can be harmful. Often, the doctor discovers symptoms that the parents did not notice.

To clarify the diagnosis, general blood and urine tests are prescribed. Methods such as fluorographic examination, X-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography are used. You may need to consult a urologist, cardiologist, neurologist or other specialists.

Video: When to see a doctor if your child has a fever

A high body temperature in a child is a kind of protective reaction that allows you to better cope with viruses and various diseases. Parents, having found a fever in a baby without any accompanying symptoms, signs of a cold or other diseases, begin to panic. This is especially true for children who still cannot tell what exactly worries them, where and how it hurts. Fever without other symptoms can appear for various reasons, but often only a doctor can establish them after a complete examination of the child.

Most parents in such a situation are in a hurry to give the baby an antipyretic, without trying to find out what exactly led to the fever. This behavior is incorrect, since the reaction usually indicates that inside the baby's body the immune system is fighting against the irritant.

Trying to bring down the fever in a child, adults often interfere with the work of the natural protective reaction of the child's body. Therefore, it is important to correctly identify the causes and factors that led to the appearance of fever.

In children under 5 years of age, body temperature is often slightly elevated for no reason, and its value in the range of 37-37.2 degrees is considered normal. This is due to the fact that in babies the natural thermoregulation of the body is still not sufficiently formed and debugged, and the lifestyle at this age is always very mobile.

Often parents observe an increase in temperature in a child after active games that require considerable physical activity. But once he rests a little, sitting quietly, and everything returns to normal.

Teething in an infant, it can also cause a fever, sometimes quite severe, while there may be no other symptoms. Only with a detailed examination, you can see the swelling of the gums and their slight inflammation. During this period, babies may be anxious and capricious, but if there are no signs of a disease, for example, a cold, then no measures need to be taken.

Temperature without other symptoms may appear with normal overheating , which often happens to babies with excessive dressing and wrapping, as well as insufficient fluid intake, for example, if the baby does not receive additional fluids from breast milk.

Due to unsteady natural thermoregulation, the baby can easily overheat when in a stuffy room, in the sun, or if he is dressed too warm (not for the weather). In this case, there are no signs of the disease, and it is enough to give the child a drink, taking off excess clothes and transferring him to a cool room, so that the condition of the crumbs returns to normal.

The most common cause of high fever is viral infection , for example, influenza, acute respiratory infections or SARS. When a fever occurs, other symptoms may not be observed. They tend to come on later, usually after a few hours.

After suffering ARVI, in some babies, the body retains bacterial infection , in this case, subfebrile temperature can be observed for a long time, sometimes longer than a month. In order for the baby's condition to normalize, a course of vitamin preparations of general strengthening action is required.

stressful situations , accompanied by strong excitement and feelings, often lead to the appearance of a high temperature against the background of the complete absence of any signs of a cold or other disease.

The condition has neurological implications and can often occur in children with congenital or early-onset neurological disorders. Such babies require constant monitoring not only by a neurologist, but also by parents, as well as the implementation of all recommendations of specialists.

Often a fever without any other symptoms may indicate a serious kidney dysfunction . In this case, a slight rise in temperature is usually observed, on average up to 37.5 degrees, but it remains unchanged for a long time, after which sharp jumps begin to 39 degrees.

If this indicator persists for several days, while there are no signs of illness or a cold, you should consult a doctor and undergo an examination using ultrasound diagnostics, which will eliminate the danger to the health of the baby or determine its degree if there is a serious problem and prescribe adequate treatment. A baby in this state must be protected from any worries and worries.

The temperature may also appear as a result, while after a few hours other symptoms should appear, for example, redness of the skin, rash, swelling of the tissues. Allergic babies, regardless of the type of allergens that cause a reaction, need constant monitoring by an allergist and systematic treatment with the obligatory elimination of substances that lead to seizures.

Another cause of fever in children without concomitant symptoms may be the presence intestinal infection . In this case, the baby's condition will rapidly deteriorate and in a few hours will be supplemented by lethargy, apathy, general malaise and upset in the gastrointestinal tract (diarrhea or vomiting).

Conditions Requiring Urgent Medical Care

If the baby has birth defects heart, the appearance of fever without other symptoms may be evidence of the onset of a bacterial form of endocarditis. As a rule, in the initial stage of the development of the disease, the temperature is high, after which it begins to gradually decrease and is fixed at 37 degrees, but at the same time, the child has tachycardia and shortness of breath.

In this condition, it is important to make a diagnosis in a timely manner and start treatment, which means that you should not postpone going to the doctor.

Heat can also be caused by the penetration into the body of foreign substances that can cause a pyrogenic reaction. This may include the introduction of certain types of vaccines, the use of which may cause fever as a side effect.

If the baby's condition has not returned to normal within a day after vaccination and the use of a single dose of an antipyretic, you should urgently consult a doctor.

The use of expired medicines of any direction can cause a fever in a child, which is gradually supplemented by other signs. In case of severe poisoning, the baby will need hospitalization, so it is better to call an ambulance when the first symptoms appear.

It is important to always check the expiration date of any medicinal product before giving it to a child and avoid drugs that are not made in pharmacy conditions.

How to help the baby? Do you need to turn off the heat?

Of course, fever that appears without additional symptoms can be alleviated at home by giving the child a dose of an antipyretic drug, but such measures should be resorted to only if absolutely necessary. It is important to observe the condition of the crumbs and his behavior in order to determine the cause.

Often only a qualified specialist after an examination can make a correct diagnosis. You should not risk the health of the child and try to establish your own diagnosis, as well as prescribe treatment yourself.

The appearance of fever is primarily a protective mechanism of the child's body, since at a body temperature of 38 degrees the reproduction of most types of pathogens slows down. When the threshold of 40 degrees is reached, the reproduction of all bacteria and viruses stops completely.

It is the high temperature that allows the child's body to cope with the infection. If there are antibiotics among the drugs prescribed by the doctor, then it is best to give them to the child with a fever, since in this state the effect of the drug is greatly enhanced.

The heat activates the baby's immune system, stimulates the accelerated production of antibodies to destroy the source of the problem. At the same time, the body also increases the production of interferon, which is necessary to fight many types of viruses, including pathogens of various strains of influenza.

In this state, the child's appetite usually decreases, he begins to move less, which allows the body to save a significant amount of energy and direct them to fight the disease.

If you give a child an antipyretic in the natural protective function of the body, a kind of failure will occur, which will lead to a sharp slowdown in the immune system and create conditions for the reproduction of pathogens.

Of course, by reducing the fever, parents relieve the child's condition for a short time, but all drugs have only a temporary effect, and after it ends, the baby becomes sharply worse. It is for this reason that experts strongly do not recommend bringing down the temperature in children if its indicator does not exceed 38-38.5 degrees.