Q: My child has a persistent high fever and abdominal pain, but blood tests are normal. What should I do?
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
My child has had a persistent fever for a few days, accompanied by abdominal pain, chills, body aches, a runny nose, a cough, and a sore throat. We visited a clinic, and blood tests (inflammation markers and white blood cell count) were completely normal. The doctor suspected viral gastroenteritis and ordered a stool test, but we are still waiting for the results. No antibiotics were prescribed since they can irritate the stomach. Yesterday, alternating fever reducers helped lower the fever, but since early this morning, the temperature hasn't dropped at all, staying between 38.2°C and 39°C. Could there be another underlying illness? Should we go back to the clinic immediately, or wait until our next appointment with the current medication? My child is quite unwell and in pain.
Answer:
It is completely understandable that you are very worried, especially since your child has had a high fever for three days that is no longer responding well to medication.
Understanding the Current Situation
Your child is experiencing a persistent fever (38.2°C - 39°C) with respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms, yet blood tests show no bacterial inflammation. Normal blood test results typically indicate a low probability of a bacterial infection, which is why antibiotics were appropriately withheld. Viral gastroenteritis can indeed cause a high fever lasting 3 to 5 days, but because of the mixed symptoms, other conditions must be kept in mind.
Other Possible Causes
Given the combination of symptoms, other possibilities could include:
Urinary tract infection (requires a urine test to confirm)
Otitis media or ear infection (check if the child complains of ear pain)
Early-stage pneumonia (requires close observation of breathing patterns)
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
If your child experiences any of the following warning signs, please revisit the clinic or go to an urgent care center today—do not wait for your scheduled appointment:
No urine output for more than 8 hours, or noticeably dry lips and tongue (signs of dehydration).
Extreme lethargy, lack of eye contact, or poor responsiveness.
Abdominal pain that becomes severe or localizes to one specific side.
Rapid breathing or chest retractions (the skin pulling in under the ribs when breathing).
Fever lasting more than 5 days or a sudden change in the fever pattern.
Home Care Guidelines
Hydration: Offer 1-2 sips of water or an oral rehydration solution every 5-10 minutes. Small, frequent sips are less likely to trigger vomiting.
Comfort: Dress your child in light clothing and keep the room temperature comfortably cool.
Fever Management: Stick to one type of fever reducer at regular, prescribed intervals. Alternating medications (cross-dosing) can sometimes lead to dosing confusion or overmedication.
Observation: Keep a written record of their urine frequency and color, as well as the exact location and intensity of the abdominal pain.
If your child is in significant pain, their condition appears to be worsening, or you observe any signs of dehydration, please take your child in for an in-person medical evaluation today. A physical exam is necessary to rule out other infections and ensure your child is safe.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
