Q: My child has a 40°C fever, sharp stomach pains, and nausea after eating. Flu tests were negative. Is it enteritis?

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Question:

Stomachache... is it enteritis or simple indigestion? My child started having a mild fever on Friday, and on Saturday the fever hit 40°C along with a stomachache. Saturday's flu test was negative. The fever didn't go down from Sunday to Monday, so we retested for the flu this morning, and it was negative again. The doctor didn't say much about the stomachache and just prescribed gastrointestinal medicine.

For three days now, my child has had a stomachache, and eating causes nausea. They describe the pain as a sharp, poking sensation. It breaks my heart because they can't eat well due to the pain. Is it indigestion or enteritis? Please help...

Answer:

You must be very worried seeing your child suffer from a high fever and stomachache for three days. It is especially heartbreaking when they can't even eat.

Current Symptom Evaluation:

• High fever (40°C) lasting for 3 days + stomachache + nausea

• Negative flu tests (2 times)

• Sharp, poking stomach pain + worsening after meals

This pattern has a high probability of being acute gastroenteritis or mesenteric lymphadenitis. It seems more like a viral enteritis rather than simple indigestion.

What you can do right now:

1. Prioritize hydration - Give a sip or two of an electrolyte drink every 5-10 minutes.

2. Feed small amounts frequently - Offer soft foods like porridge, bananas, and toast.

3. Warm compress on the abdomen - Gently massage the stomach with a warm towel.

4. Take the prescribed gastrointestinal medicine consistently.

⚠️ Go to the emergency room immediately if:

• The stomach pain suddenly worsens or concentrates in one specific spot.

• There is no urination for more than 8 hours.

• You notice bloody or black stools.

• The stomach becomes hard and swollen.

Most cases improve within 3-5 days, but if there is no improvement by tomorrow, please revisit the doctor and request a blood test or an abdominal ultrasound.

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