All children get sick; this is part of being a child! Certain infections are very common in childhood, especially among school-aged children; common cold, influenza, throat infection (e.g. strep throat), middle ear infection, and viral gastroenteritis (known as stomach flu) to name but a few. Most - if not all - have one symptom in common; fever!
The normal body temperature range for children is 36.5°C-38°C (97-100.3°F), and it can fluctuate with playing, running around outside (especially during summer), and exercise. A fever is there when your child’s body temperature is above 38°C (100.4°F). It happens when the body's internal thermostat (inside the hypothalamus of the brain) is reset to a higher-than-usual temperature.
When to see your child's paediatrician about a fever?
Fever in a healthy child is not dangerous mostly, and it tends to regress completely within 3-4 days. The following inklings should be taken into consideration if your child has a fever:
- Does your child have an apparent reason for the fever? A fever associated with runny nose and cough in a child who is still playful, eating reasonably, and sleeping well is not a reason for worry mostly (he likely has viral flu).
- Does your child seem in a much better state once his temperature drops? While a high fever might not regress completely, it can drop partially by cold compresses and medication with your child feeling somewhat better. If not, this would be a good reason to consult your child's paediatrician.
- Is your child showing no improvement? A fever lasting for four days with no signs of regressive symptoms would be another good reason to call your paediatrician.
A rule of thumb, when it comes to your child’s health, it is always better to be safe than sorry!
The Department of Paediatrics and Family Medicine
THE DUBAI LONDON CLINIC AND SPECIALITY HOSPITAL
Locations:
Dubai London Clinic and Speciality Hospital, Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqeim 2, Dubai
Dubai London Clinic (Dubai Festival City)
Dubai London Clinic (Al Thanya Centre)
Dubai London Clinic (Spinneys Villa Centro Community Mall)
Dubai London Dental Clinic ( Al Wasl)
Telephone No: 800-DLC / 800-352
Website: www.dubailondonclinic.com