What should I do if a child has a fever and bad breath?

Jun 17, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

The child has a fever, and today I noticed he also has bad breath with an unpleasant odor from his mouth. What should I do about a child having both fever and bad breath?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Bad breath accompanied by fever in children may be caused by various factors, including but not limited to colds, food stagnation, sinusitis, and tonsillitis. Appropriate measures should be taken according to the underlying cause to relieve and treat the symptoms. 1. If bad breath and fever are caused by a cold, attention should be paid to adjusting the child's diet—avoiding spicy, greasy, and irritating foods—and medications such as Xiao'er Chai Gui Tui Re Granules can be used for treatment. 2. Indigestion (food stagnation) may also lead to bad breath and fever. In such cases, dietary adjustments should be made, digestive-promoting medications should be taken orally, and bowel movements should be kept regular to support digestion. 3. Sinusitis and tonsillitis can also be potential causes of bad breath and fever. For sinusitis, treatment may include topical nasal sprays and antibiotics. For tonsillitis, it is essential to completely eliminate the infectious pathogens. If symptoms persist or worsen, prompt medical consultation is necessary to obtain professional care.