What to do if a 4-year-old child has a persistent high fever
Dec 26, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, a high fever refers to a high body temperature. A persistent high fever in a 4-year-old child may be related to upper respiratory tract infection, acute gastroenteritis, pneumonia, meningitis, Kawasaki disease, and other factors. It is recommended to promptly implement general treatment or medication to alleviate symptoms. If the high fever persists, timely medical attention is necessary. Please note that the aforementioned medications should be used under a doctor's guidance.
Generally speaking, high fever refers to high body temperature. High fever in a 4-year-old child that does not subside may be associated with upper respiratory tract infection, acute gastroenteritis, pneumonia, meningitis, Kawasaki disease, and other factors. It is recommended to promptly pursue general treatment or medication for relief. If the high fever persists, timely medical attention is required. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
Upper respiratory tract infection is caused by viral or bacterial invasion. When the body's temperature regulation center becomes disrupted, high fever may result. Symptoms may include coughing, runny nose, and sneezing. It is recommended to use medications such as ibuprofen suspension, oseltamivir phosphate granules, and pediatric cough syrup as directed by a physician. Additionally, it is important to drink plenty of water to help thin mucus and aid in fever reduction.
2. Acute Gastroenteritis
Acute gastroenteritis is commonly caused by viral or bacterial infections. Inflammatory agents produced by these pathogens repeatedly irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, potentially causing the aforementioned discomfort along with vomiting and diarrhea. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as montmorillonite powder, loperamide hydrochloride granules, and enteritis relief granules may be used for treatment. After bowel movements, promptly rinse the anal area with warm water to reduce the risk of infection.
3. Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an inflammatory condition of the lungs caused by invasion of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or mycoplasma. When inflammatory mediators are released, high fever and chills may occur, often accompanied by coughing and expectoration. Under a physician's guidance, medications such as Pulike Mixture, azithromycin granules, and ribavirin granules can be used for treatment. It is also important to promptly improve the living environment to avoid extremes of temperature.
4. Meningitis
Meningitis is an inflammatory disease caused by bacterial or viral invasion of the meninges and spinal cord membranes. The inflammatory process stimulates the body, causing elevated body temperature and high fever, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as headache, vomiting, and drowsiness. It is recommended to promptly use medications such as ceftriaxone sodium for injection, cefotaxime sodium for injection, and acyclovir injection as directed by a physician.
5. Kawasaki Disease
Kawasaki disease is related to the body's immune system attacking its own tissues. When an inflammatory response occurs, body temperature rises, often accompanied by symptoms such as red eyes, dry and cracked lips. It is important to promptly follow medical advice and use medications such as human immunoglobulin, aspirin enteric-coated tablets, and prednisolone acetate injection for treatment.
Note that all of the above medications should be used under the guidance of a physician to avoid self-medication. Additionally, if the high fever persists for a prolonged period, regular follow-up visits are necessary to allow for timely adjustments to the treatment plan.
