What causes fever and abdominal pain in a four-year-old child?

Generally speaking, fever refers to elevated body temperature, and abdominal pain refers to pain in the stomach area. Fever and abdominal pain in a four-year-old child may be caused by physiological fever with intestinal spasms, catching a chill after physical activity, upper respiratory tract infection, acute gastroenteritis, or mesenteric lymphadenitis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention and follow the guidance of a physician for treatment. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Physiological Fever Accompanied by Intestinal Spasms

During growth and development, four-year-old children have an immature body temperature regulation center, making them prone to fever due to external environmental influences. At the same time, increased blood circulation during fever may cause contraction of intestinal smooth muscles, leading to intestinal spasms and resulting in abdominal pain. In daily life, attention should be paid to keeping the child warm to avoid sudden temperature changes that may disrupt thermoregulation. Maintain a balanced diet and avoid excessive consumption of cold or greasy foods to reduce gastrointestinal irritation.

2. Catching a Chill After Exercise

When children sweat after physical activity and fail to change into dry clothing or avoid exposure to wind, they are prone to invasion by cold pathogens, which can cause fever. Cold exposure can also affect intestinal motility, resulting in abdominal pain. Dry clothing should be changed promptly after exercise, and children should avoid immediately entering air-conditioned rooms or sitting directly in front of fans. Strengthen physical exercise to improve the body's immunity and reduce the chances of catching a chill or cold.

3. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

Upper respiratory tract infections are often caused by viral or bacterial infections, which can affect gastrointestinal function. The infection causes fever, and impaired gastrointestinal function may lead to abdominal pain and indigestion. Common symptoms also include coughing, runny nose, and nasal congestion. Medications such as amoxicillin clavulanate potassium granules, children's cough syrup, and compound digestive enzyme capsules may be used under the guidance of a physician.

4. Acute Gastroenteritis

Acute gastroenteritis is often caused by unhygienic food intake, overeating, or consumption of cold foods. Bacterial or viral infections cause inflammation of the gastrointestinal mucosa, resulting in fever. Inflammation may also accelerate intestinal motility, causing abdominal pain. Accompanying symptoms may include diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Treatment may include medications such as cefixime granules, Bifidobacterium quadruple viable tablets, and paracetamol oral solution, following a physician's advice.

5. Mesenteric Lymphadenitis

Mesenteric lymphadenitis is usually caused by a viral infection, commonly occurring after an upper respiratory tract infection. The virus invades the mesenteric lymph nodes, causing swelling, pain, and fever. Other symptoms may include abdominal tenderness and nausea. Follow medical advice for treatment with medications such as ribavirin granules, ibuprofen suspension drops, and amoxicillin capsules.

In daily life, parents should ensure the child stays warm to avoid catching a chill or cold. Maintain a balanced diet and avoid overeating or consuming unhygienic food. At the same time, encourage regular physical exercise to enhance the child's immune system.