Q: My child has a cold, their temperature is 36.1°C, and they are sweating profusely. Why are they sweating with a low temperature, and is this okay?
- Myeongchan Kim, MD
- Jun 13
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 8
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 a cold with a runny nose and has been taking medicine for a couple of days. In the morning, they had a mild fever of 37.6°C. Before going to sleep, their body felt a bit cold, so I took their temperature, and it was 36.1°C. They also mentioned feeling cold. I bundled them up warmly and put them to bed, but now I see they are sweating so much that their hair is completely drenched. Their temperature is still around 36.1°C to 36.4°C. Why are they sweating when their temperature is relatively low? Is this okay?
Answer:
It must be worrisome taking care of your sick child, especially when you see them sweating profusely with a lower body temperature. However, this phenomenon is commonly seen during the recovery process from a cold.
Here is why this is happening:
• Temperature Regulation: The body is actively regulating its temperature as the mild fever breaks.
• Medication Effects: The fever-reducing (antipyretic) ingredients in cold medicine help lower the body temperature by inducing sweat.
• Bundling Up: Because you dressed them warmly and covered them to combat the chills, the body is now sweating to cool itself down and regulate its temperature.
• Normal Range: A body temperature of 36.1°C to 36.4°C is completely within the normal range, and body temperature naturally drops even lower during sleep.
Here is what you can do right now to keep your child comfortable:
Change wet items: Promptly change their wet clothes and pillowcase to prevent them from catching a chill.
Wipe them down: Gently wipe their body with a lukewarm towel and dress them in dry, breathable clothes.
Adjust bedding: Do not overdress them or use excessively thick blankets. Cover them with a light blanket so they stay comfortably warm without overheating.
Hydrate: Offer them small sips of water or warm caffeine-free tea (like barley tea) when they wake up to replace the fluids lost through sweating.
When to seek immediate medical attention:
→ If their body temperature drops and remains below 35°C continuously.
→ If their body feels persistently cold and shivering does not stop.
→ If the child appears lethargic, confused, or unresponsive.
→ If they show any signs of difficulty breathing.
Your child's current situation appears to be a normal part of the cold recovery process. If your child is sleeping peacefully, try not to worry too much. Check their condition again in the morning, and you can continue giving them their prescribed cold medicine as directed. If you notice any of the warning signs mentioned above or if symptoms persist, please consult your pediatrician for an in-person evaluation.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
