Q: My 5-year-old had enteritis and a fever last week, got better, but now has a fever, stomachache, and constipation again. Should we go to the ER?

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:

Hello, my 5-year-old child was diagnosed with enteritis last Saturday after a sudden stomachache and a fever of 38.5°C. An ultrasound showed a swollen intestine. On Sunday, the fever reached 39.5°C, but the rest of the week was fine with no fever or pain. However, my child didn't follow a strict diet and ate some snacks over the week.

On Friday evening, my child felt sick again with a fever of 38.5°C. The doctor noted a red throat and suggested a flu test if the fever didn't drop. This morning, my child's condition improved, but after eating a large dinner, the stomachache returned, and the temperature is rising again to 37.9°C.

Additionally, my child suffers from constipation. After passing a lot of stool last Saturday, there was only a little on Wednesday and none since Thursday. I am worried if this is still an issue with enteritis or if the constipation is causing the stomachache and fever. Should we go to the emergency room for a blood test tonight, or is it safe to wait until Monday to visit a clinic?

Answer:

It is completely understandable that you are worried, as your child's symptoms have been fluctuating for over a week.

To summarize the current situation:

• Last Saturday: Intestinal swelling on ultrasound and fever. Sunday: Fever up to 39.5°C, followed by a week of recovery.

• Friday evening: New fever (38.5°C) and a red throat.

• Today: Recovered in the morning, but experienced abdominal pain and a mild fever (37.9°C) after a large dinner.

• No diarrhea or vomiting, but significant constipation (almost no bowel movements since last Saturday, and none on Thursday or Friday).

When to Visit the Emergency Room Tonight:

Please take your child to the ER immediately for an evaluation if you observe any of the following:

• The abdomen feels hard, or the child cries in severe pain when it is touched.

• Continuous vomiting or an inability to keep even water down.

• No urination for more than 8 hours.

• Severe lethargy, limpness, or a lack of eye contact.

• Rapid, heavy, or difficult breathing.

If none of these symptoms are present and your child is able to drink water and sleep comfortably, it is generally safe to wait until Monday morning to visit your pediatrician.

Home Care Until Your Visit:

1. Hydration: Offer small, frequent sips of water or barley tea (e.g., 2-3 sips every 30 minutes).

2. Diet: Stick to soft, bland foods tomorrow, such as porridge, bananas, or boiled potatoes. Avoid snacks, sweets, and greasy foods.

3. Abdominal Observation: Gently press the child's belly to check if it feels soft or if the pain is localized to one specific, sharp spot.

4. Fever Management: At 37.9°C, you can simply monitor the child without medication. If the child becomes very uncomfortable, you may administer a weight-appropriate dose of fever reducer (spaced 4-6 hours apart).

5. Constipation: Keep the child well-hydrated. You can discuss the need for a laxative or enema during your clinic visit.

Things to Discuss with Your Doctor on Monday:

• Is there a possibility that the intestinal swelling seen on the previous ultrasound is still present?

• Could the constipation be causing the abdominal pain and mild fever?

• Given the red throat and new fever, could there be a co-occurring virus like the flu?

• Are blood tests strictly necessary at this stage to determine the treatment plan?

For tonight, carefully monitor your child's hydration, abdominal pain, and urination frequency. If their condition suddenly worsens during the night or they show any of the severe symptoms listed above, please seek immediate emergency medical care. If they remain stable, an in-person clinic visit on Monday morning is sufficient for a re-evaluation of their abdomen and to address the constipation.

For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.

fevercoach.us

Apple App Store

Google Play

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