What should I do if a 12-year-old child has a fever of 38.5°C?

Generally speaking, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. A body temperature of 38.5°C in a 12-year-old child may be caused by strenuous exercise, emotional stress or anxiety, acute gastroenteritis, urinary tract infection, rheumatic fever, or other reasons. Treatment options, which can be discussed with a doctor, include general management and medication therapy. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Strenuous Exercise

During strenuous exercise, muscles generate a large amount of heat. If heat dissipation is inadequate, the child's body temperature may rise. Encourage children to schedule exercise appropriately and avoid intense physical activity in extreme weather conditions. Ensure adequate hydration after exercise to promote cooling.

2. Emotional Stress or Anxiety

When experiencing emotional stress or anxiety, increased secretion of hormones such as adrenaline can elevate body temperature to 38.5°C. Pay attention to the child's mental health and provide a warm family environment. Teach children emotional regulation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation.

3. Acute Gastroenteritis

Acute gastroenteritis is caused by infections with bacteria, viruses, or parasites, such as Salmonella or rotavirus. Gastrointestinal inflammation may elevate body temperature and is often accompanied by symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as Cefaclor Granules, Montmorillonite Powder, and Oral Rehydration Salts (III) may be used for treatment.

4. Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections are typically caused by bacterial invasion of the urinary system, such as Escherichia coli. Inflammation can cause fever with temperatures rising to 38.5°C, and may also present with symptoms like frequent urination, urgency, and painful urination. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as Cefuroxime Axetil Tablets, Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, and Paracetamol Tablets.

5. Rheumatic Fever

Rheumatic fever is a systemic connective tissue inflammation that occurs following infection with group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus. Following streptococcal infection, the immune response may elevate body temperature and may also cause symptoms such as redness, swelling, heat, and pain in the joints, as well as heart murmurs. Patients may follow a doctor's recommendation to use medications such as Penicillin V Potassium Tablets, Ibuprofen Sustained-Release Tablets, and Prednisone Acetate Tablets for treatment.

Maintain a balanced diet with adequate intake of protein, fats, and carbohydrates to enhance immunity. Additionally, teach children good personal hygiene habits, such as frequent handwashing and wearing masks, to reduce the risk of infections.