Several reasons can cause low-grade fever in children. This article will give you more information on the causes and treatment methods of low-grade fever observed in children. Read on.
Fever is one of the most common symptoms and health conditions experienced by people all over the world. It is the body’s first reaction that surfaces on the onset of any disease or disorder. Fever can be of varying types depending on the cause of it. It is classified into low-grade and high-grade. Fever between 101 F to 103 F or 104 F (38.4 to 39.5 Celsius) is low-grade fever; whereas, high fever is that up to 104 F (40 Celsius) or higher. Let us take a look at the causes and treatment of low-grade fever.
Causes of Fever in Children
Viral infections like common cold and flu (influenza) are the common conditions that cause low-grade fever. As children and infants have a sensitive or a weak immune system, they are more prone to these infectious diseases. On an average, it is observed that children and infants suffer from common cold at least 1-2 times in a year. These diseases are more common in the winter season. Secondly, cough is also a symptom of bacterial infections like strep throat and sinus infection.
Apart from these, there are several causes that lead to low-grade fever in kids.
- Chickenpox
- Ear infections
- Bladder infection
- Rubella
- Fifth disease
- Measles
- Mumps
- Roseola
- Coxsackievirus
- Dengue fever
Sometimes, other symptoms like sore throat, runny nose, vomiting, nausea, etc. are accompanied by fever. It should be noted that low-grade fever with no other symptoms, can be a sign of an allergic reaction or chronic allergies. On the other hand, in infants and babies, it can be a symptom of teething. In minor cases, the fever subsides in a single day. However, if one observes it for more than a couple of days, it is essential to consult the doctor.
Treatment of Fever in Children
Although, low-grade fevers are not considered serious, one should go for the treatment in order to get rid of the symptoms immediately. There are several medications available over-the-counter or with prescription that help in getting rid of fever. Antibiotics are used to treat fever caused due to bacterial infections. One should note that it can be harmful to give aspirin to children and infants. There are also medications available to treat other symptoms like vomiting, sore throat, nausea, etc.
Apart from medications, children should be made to take bed rest to gain quick relief. Viral infections heal faster by taking rest and drinking plenty of fluids. One of the home remedies in treating fever is to give a warm water bath to lower the temperature. On the other hand, it is advised that parents should not give any medications to babies and infants before consulting the doctor. These medications may have side effects or suppress the symptoms that help in diagnosis of the condition.
As a concluding note, it can be said that you should not ignore low-grade fever accompanied by other symptoms, as it can be a sign of a severe medical condition. On the contrary, you should consult the doctor and get it treated immediately. Take care!
