The cause of fever in children

Fever is a common condition in young children. Is it an important issue? What signs when a child needs fever? What causes fever in children? The following article will help you better understand the child's fever.

Sometimes you get nervous when your child's body temperature is high. In fact, this issue is not always dangerous. Fevers are quite common and can go away on their own without treatment.

Fever is not an illness and is not always harmful. A fever is sometimes considered a good sign because it shows your child's body is fighting off the infection. Not all fevers require fever reduction. However, high fevers can irritate your child and cause dehydration.

What is a fever?

Fever is caused by the hypothalamus in the brain that is driving the baby's temperature to rise (the hypothalamus also controls the feeling of hunger and thirst). This area will know exactly what temperature is needed for the body and send signals to the entire body. In an abnormal case, the brain will require changes in temperature to hinder the growth of bacteria or viruses during an infection. Some scientists believe that high temperatures can stimulate certain enzymes in the body to work more efficiently, making the body stronger. You can use a thermometer to check if your child has a fever.

The cause of the fever

Most fevers are caused by an infection or other medical condition. Common cases leading to fever include:

Pneumonia

Cold

Teethe

Ear infections

Scarlet fever

Tonsillitis

Nephritis or urinary tract infection

Young illnesses like chickenpox or whooping cough.

A child's temperature can also rise after getting the vaccine or sleeping too much or wearing layers of clothes.

How to recognize an emergency?

Contact a pediatrician immediately if your child shows signs of:

Under three months of age and fever at or above 38oC (101oF).

Between 3 to 6 months of age and fever at or above 39oC (102oF).

When these signs show up, you should go to the emergency room right away if your child:

Pale look

Daydreaming becomes too disruptive

Weakened immune system or other medical problems

Convulsions

Have other symptoms such as rash, sore throat, headache, stiff neck or ear pain.

If your child becomes bored, doesn't bother playing, he may have a serious illness,

Much more serious illness

Sometimes a fever is a sign of serious medical problems, and fever may include:

Shortness of breath

Vomiting

Rash

Fainting or convulsions.

Serious bacterial diseases can occur:

Meningitis - infection of the lining of the brain, which protects the brain and spinal cord

Septicemia

Pneumonia caused by infection.

The cause of fever in young children leading to these dangerous diseases is often very rare. You can read more information about the signs of serious illness that might happen to your baby.

The above article has provided you with basic knowledge about the causes of fever in children. Sometimes you don't need to worry too much when your child has a fever, but be aware of possible special circumstances. When there is an emergency, contact your pediatrician immediately.