Q: My child had a mild fever while on sinusitis medication. Should we visit the doctor today or finish the meds?
- Myeongchan Kim
- May 22
- 2 min read
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 was diagnosed with Mycoplasma pneumonia in mid-December. Then, in early January, they caught Influenza A, followed by sinusitis. We have been giving them sinusitis medication for about 9 days now.
Yesterday afternoon, they had a mild fever of 37.9°C, but it went down. This morning, their temperature was back to normal. We currently have two days' worth of sinusitis medication left. I am wondering if I should finish giving the remaining medication before taking them to the clinic, or if we need to visit the doctor today.
Answer:
It sounds like your child has had a very difficult time dealing with a long treatment journey, from Mycoplasma pneumonia to Influenza A and then sinusitis. It is completely understandable that you are concerned.
Based on the current situation—the mild fever of 37.9°C yesterday resolving, a normal temperature this morning, and having two days of medication left out of a 9-day course—it is generally recommended to finish the remaining two days of medication while closely observing your child. If the medication includes antibiotics, completing the fully prescribed course is very important.
You should visit the doctor today if any of the following occur:
The fever spikes again to 38.0°C or higher.
Thick, yellow nasal discharge worsens.
Facial or forehead pain increases.
A new cough starts, or an existing cough worsens.
Key points for observation:
Sinusitis typically requires 10 to 14 days of treatment.
Given your child's recent history of pneumonia, please pay close attention to any respiratory symptoms.
If symptoms persist for 3 to 4 days after completing the medication, please visit the doctor again for a follow-up evaluation.
If your child is playing and eating well, it is safe to finish the remaining medication and monitor their progress. However, always trust your intuition—if you feel that something is wrong or if their condition changes, do not hesitate to seek an in-person evaluation from your pediatrician.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
