What causes a child's high fever lasting for three days without subsiding, and what should be done?

Dec 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, a high fever refers to a high body temperature. If a child has a high fever for three consecutive days without improvement, it may be related to factors such as indigestion, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, or Kawasaki disease. It is recommended to undergo general treatment or medication according to the underlying cause. If the body temperature continues to rise, timely medical attention is required. As there are various causes for fever in children, it is important to receive timely treatment based on the specific cause and avoid self-medication.

Generally speaking, high fever refers to high body temperature. If a child's fever persists for three days without subsiding, it may be related to factors such as indigestion, influenza, pneumonia, meningitis, Kawasaki disease, and others. It is recommended to undergo general or medication treatment according to the underlying cause. If the body temperature continues to rise, prompt medical attention is needed. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Indigestion

Indigestion is often associated with improper diet, such as overeating or consuming hard-to-digest foods, which can slow intestinal motility and potentially cause discomfort, commonly accompanied by symptoms like bloating and abdominal pain. Massaging the abdomen can help promote gastrointestinal motility. If symptoms are severe, it is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as domperidone suspension, Jianwei Xiaoshi granules, or Bifidobacterium triple viable powder for treatment.

2. Influenza

Influenza is usually caused by viral infections, such as type A or type B influenza viruses. The virus stimulates the body, potentially causing fever with a continuously elevated temperature. It is often accompanied by symptoms like sore throat and fatigue. Maintaining good indoor air circulation and drinking adequate fluids are recommended. When necessary, follow the doctor's instructions to use medications such as oseltamivir phosphate dry suspension, compound pediatric antipyretic suppository, or zanamivir inhalation powder for treatment.

3. Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a lower respiratory tract infection caused by factors such as bacteria, viruses, or mycoplasma. Inflammatory mediators stimulate the body, producing internal heat that causes fever. Symptoms such as rapid breathing and chest pain may also occur. It is recommended to drink plenty of water and frequently pat the back to assist in expectoration. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as cefixime granules, ibuprofen suspension, or pediatric cough syrup can be used for treatment.

4. Meningitis

Meningitis is a disease caused by viruses or bacteria invading the meninges and spinal cord membranes. The inflammation stimulates the body's temperature regulation center, leading to persistent fever. It is usually accompanied by symptoms such as headache and vomiting. Follow the doctor's recommendations for medication use, such as acyclovir injection, ganciclovir injection, or phenobarbital sodium injection.

5. Kawasaki Disease

Kawasaki disease is often associated with abnormal immunity. When the immune system attacks body tissues, it may cause the above-mentioned discomfort, accompanied by symptoms like red eyes and hand-foot rash. After diagnosis, it is recommended to promptly follow the doctor's advice and use medications such as intravenous human immunoglobulin (pH4), aspirin powder, or prednisolone acetate injection for treatment.

There are many possible causes of fever in children; therefore, timely treatment according to the underlying cause is important, and self-medication should be avoided. Additionally, body temperature should be monitored regularly during treatment to keep track of disease progression and control.