My Child is Having High Fever, What Can Be the Complications?
High fever in young children is a common occurrence but can lead to more severe complications if not managed properly. One of the most alarming potential complications is febrile seizures. Although they are usually not harmful, febrile seizures can be very frightening for parents.
What Are Febrile Seizures?
Febrile seizures occur in young children when a high fever causes the body to convulse. This is a response of the brain to the elevated temperature. These seizures are more common in children between 6 months and 5 years old. They typically last for a few minutes and don’t cause long-term damage but require immediate attention.
Other Complications of High Fever in Children:
1. Dehydration: High fever increases the risk of dehydration, especially if the child is not consuming enough fluids.
2. Confusion or Delirium: Some children may experience confusion or delirium due to the elevated temperature.
3. Underlying Infections: Fever is just a symptom and not a disease. The cause of the fever could be more serious, like pneumonia, meningitis, or sepsis, which requires immediate medical intervention.
What to Do During a High Fever:
– Monitor Seizures: Keep an eye out for signs of febrile seizures, including jerking movements, rolling eyes, or unresponsiveness.
– Hydration: Encourage your child to drink fluids to avoid dehydration.
– Temperature Control: Use paracetamol or ibugesic to manage fever, but remember that these medications only control the symptom and do not cure the underlying illness.
– Seek Medical Help: If the fever persists or is very high (above 104°F), consult your pediatrician immediately.
External Resources:
– [HealthyChildren.org – When to Worry About Fever] – [Mayo Clinic – Febrile Seizures]
Related FAQ:
Q: What is a febrile seizure?
A: A febrile seizure is a convulsion triggered by a high fever in children, usually between 6 months and 5 years old. It’s a response to the fever but is generally not harmful.
Q: Can paracetamol or ibugesic treat the cause of the fever?
A: No, paracetamol and ibugesic help lower the fever, but they do not treat the underlying cause of the illness. It’s important to identify and treat the cause of the fever.
Q: When should I seek medical help for my child’s fever?
A: If your child’s fever persists for more than three days, is above 104°F, or if they show signs of dehydration, confusion, or seizures, seek medical help immediately.
High fever in children can be a sign of underlying illness, and the risks of complications, such as febrile seizures, should not be ignored. Consult Dr. Vinit Mehta at Aashrey Child Clinic for expert pediatric care to ensure your child gets the right diagnosis and treatment.