Q: My 21-month-old has a persistent high fever for 3 days due to a swollen throat. Should we go to the hospital again?

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Question:

Hello! I have a 21-month-old child who started having a fever early Sunday morning, and it still hasn't broken. We visited the clinic on Sunday afternoon, were told the fever was due to a swollen throat, and received an IV drip along with prescription medicine. Despite the IV, the fever hit 40°C early Monday morning and kept fluctuating. By Monday evening, the fever was around 39.5°C and wouldn't go down, so we went to the clinic again. The doctor mentioned the throat was even more swollen, making the fever hard to bring down, and administered a second IV. Two flu tests were conducted, but both came back negative.

Today is Tuesday, and the fever is still going up and down. Even after taking fever reducers, the temperature hovers between the high 38s and low 39s and won't drop easily. Should we visit the hospital again right now, or should we continue administering fever reducers and monitor the situation at home?

Answer:

Hello! You must be very worried that your 21-month-old child has had a high fever for three days.

To summarize the current situation:

• High fever of 38.5-40°C persisting for 3 days

• Fever due to throat swelling (possibility of pharyngitis/tonsillitis)

• Received 2 IV drips, flu tests came back negative

• Minimal effect from fever reducers

【Please Check Right Now】

Does your child have any of the following symptoms?

→ Difficulty breathing or unable to swallow saliva

→ Voice changes or a hoarse voice

→ Breathing with an open mouth or extending the neck forward

→ Refusing to drink fluids or having no urine output for over 8 hours

⚠️ If any of the above symptoms are present, please go to the emergency room immediately.

【Current Management Methods】

1. Cross-dosing fever reducers: Alternate acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) and ibuprofen every 3 to 4 hours.

2. Offer cool water frequently in small amounts (using a straw cup or spoon).

3. Cold foods like ice cream or yogurt can help soothe the throat.

4. Use a humidifier and maintain an indoor temperature of 24-26°C.

【When a Hospital Revisit is Necessary】

• High fever of 39°C or above persists until tomorrow (Wednesday)

• A new skin rash appears

• The child loses even more energy or shows poor responsiveness

• You, as parents, feel the condition is worsening

A high fever lasting for more than 3 days may also indicate a possible bacterial infection, which could require a blood test. Please monitor your child's condition tonight, and if the fever continues into tomorrow morning, I strongly recommend visiting the clinic again for a re-examination.

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

https://fevercoach.us