What should be done for a four-year-old child with a fever of 38°C?
Dec 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. A 38°C fever in a 4-year-old child may be caused by factors such as thermoregulatory imbalance, vigorous exercise, acute gastroenteritis, urinary tract infection, or exanthema subitum. Treatment may include general care and medication under a doctor's guidance. Normally, it is important to drink plenty of warm water, adjust clothing appropriately, and maintain a light diet.
Generally speaking, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. A 38°C fever in a 4-year-old child may be caused by factors such as thermoregulatory imbalance, strenuous exercise, acute gastroenteritis, urinary tract infection, or infantile rash. Treatment options include general care and medication, under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Thermoregulatory Imbalance
The thermoregulatory center in 4-year-old children is not yet fully developed and is easily affected by environmental factors, leading to thermoregulatory imbalance and subsequent fever. When the ambient temperature is too high or the child is overdressed, body heat cannot be effectively dissipated, resulting in elevated body temperature. It is important to maintain a suitable indoor temperature and avoid overdressing or underdressing the child, especially adjusting clothing promptly during weather changes.
2. Strenuous Exercise
After strenuous exercise, children experience increased metabolic activity and heat production. If heat dissipation is inadequate, body temperature may rise. The child's exercise duration and intensity should be reasonably scheduled to avoid prolonged vigorous activity. Prompt rest and hydration after exercise can help reduce body temperature.
3. Acute Gastroenteritis
Acute gastroenteritis is caused by infection with pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, or parasites. These pathogens or harmful substances irritate the gastrointestinal tract, triggering an inflammatory response that may lead to fever. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. Medications such as Cefaclor Granules, Montmorillonite Powder, and Oral Rehydration Salts (Ⅲ) may be used under medical advice.
4. Urinary Tract Infection
Urinary tract infection is caused by pathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, infecting the urinary system. The pathogens multiply within the urinary system, triggering an inflammatory response that elevates body temperature to 38°C. Symptoms such as frequent urination and urgency may also occur. Under a doctor's recommendation, medications such as Cefuroxime Axetil Granules, Amoxicillin Granules, and Pidotimod Oral Solution may be used for treatment.
5. Infantile Roseola
Infantile roseola is caused by human herpesvirus 6 infection. The virus invades the body and triggers an immune response, which may lead to the aforementioned symptoms. Patients may also experience high fever and irritability. Under medical guidance, medications such as Ribavirin Granules, Ibuprofen Suspension Drops, and Paracetamol Suppositories may be used for treatment.
In daily life, it is important to drink plenty of warm water, dress appropriately, maintain a bland diet, avoid overeating, and refrain from prolonged strenuous exercise, in order to maintain good health.
