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Fever and pain are part of the common ailments in children, although not normally serious, they are signals by the body to let you know that something is not right.1
Fever is a normal defense mechanism that allows the body to fight viral and bacterial infections.1 With a cold and flu, your child can develop a cough, sore throat, and body aches.2 Almost all fevers are caused by infection, with viruses being 10 times more infectious than bacteria.3
Viral infections are the most common cause of colds and flu.3 The average normal temperature is 37° C.
For adults a fever may be uncomfortable, but usually isn’t concerning unless it reaches 39.4° C or higher. For infants and toddlers, a slightly elevated temperature may indicate an infection.4
In addition to observing a rise in temperature, you may see the following signs indicating that your child has a fever:1
- Refuses to eat
- Not sleeping well
- Cries or is cranky
- Feels warmer than usual, and is red in colour
- Chills
- Confirm your child has a fever by taking his or her temperature with a thermometer.1
How to take your child’s temperature:1
If your child’s temperature is higher than the levels listed above, he or she has a fever.1 If your child does have a fever you should:1
- Maintain a comfortable temperature in the home, between 18° C and 21° C
- Dress your child in light clothing
- Maintain hydration by giving your child water, juice or milk frequently
- Don’t give your child a cold bath
- Consult your doctor or pharmacist about the medication recommended for your child to lower the fever
When your child is in pain, he or she may not be able to tell you where it hurts or describe the intensity of the pain. Aside from tears, look out for the following signs that your child may be in pain:1
- Makes faces or frowns
- Refuses to be held or touched
- Not eating or sleeping well
- Cranky or irritable
- Doesn’t move or want to play
- Always touching his or her ears
Always trust your judgement, and remember it’s better to seek medical advice sooner rather than later.
For more information speak to your Healthcare Practitioner.
Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about the Adcock Ingram OTC range of pain.
References:
1. Brunet. Fever and pain in children. Available from: https://www.brunet.ca/en/health/health-tips/fever-and-pain-in-children/. Accessed date: 18 February 2020.
2. Healthline. What Are the Early Flu Symptoms? Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/cold-flu/early-flu-symptoms. Accessed date: 21 February 2020.
3. Seattle Children’s Hospital Research Foundation. Fever. Available from: https://www.seattlechildrens.org/conditions/a-z/fever/. Accessed date: 18 February 2020.
4. Mayo Clinic. Fever. Symptoms and causes. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/fever/symptoms-causes/syc-20352759. Accessed date: 18 February 2020.
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