Q: My toddler's 40°C fever isn't improving after a doctor's visit. Do we need more tests at a larger hospital?

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Question:

My 33-month-old child developed a high fever yesterday afternoon. By early this morning, it reached 40°C (104°F), so we went to the emergency room. We then saw our pediatrician, who ran a flu test which came back negative. The doctor noted phlegm, a runny nose, and a swollen throat, and prescribed antibiotics and fever reducers.

However, the fever is back up to 40°C, and my child is very uncomfortable. Should I take them to a larger hospital for more extensive testing, or should I continue to monitor and give fever reducers? I'm also concerned because they had a similar high fever just last week, which resolved quickly after a couple of doses of medicine. Why do they keep getting sick with these high fevers?

Answer:

It must be very worrying to see your child's high fever continue.

【Summary of the Current Situation】

• A 33-month-old child's fever began yesterday afternoon → reached 40°C (104°F) overnight → has been evaluated at both an ER and a pediatric clinic.

• Flu test was negative; diagnosed with phlegm, runny nose, and throat redness → prescribed medication including an antibiotic.

• Currently sleeping after taking a fever reducer.

• Had a similar high fever last week that resolved quickly after normal test results.

【Points for Reassurance】

✅ Your child has already been evaluated by two medical facilities. If their breathing, hydration, and activity levels are okay, the priority right now is to follow the prescribed treatment and observe their progress.

✅ With viral infections, it's common for a fever to last for 2–3 days initially. The antibiotic was likely prescribed to treat or prevent a secondary bacterial infection.

【What to Do at Home Now】

1️⃣ Use Fever Reducers Correctly

• Check the concentration (e.g., mg/mL) on the label → calculate the dose based on your child's weight.

• Use the provided measuring cup for an accurate dose and maintain a 4–6 hour interval.

• Give medicine not just for the fever itself, but when your child seems uncomfortable or in pain.

2️⃣ Hydration and Nutrition

• Offer small sips of water, electrolyte drinks, or broth every 5–10 minutes.

• It's okay if they don't have an appetite; maintaining hydration is the most important thing.

3️⃣ Environment

• Dress your child in light, breathable clothing and keep the room temperature between 22–24°C (72–75°F).

• Avoid using wet towels or giving lukewarm baths, as this can cause shivering.

4️⃣ Track Symptoms

• Keep a log of the fever pattern (time and temperature), frequency of urination, activity level, and fluid intake.

【Go for Re-evaluation Today (Pediatrician or ER) if ANY of the Following Occur】

🚨 Rapid breathing, wheezing, or retractions (skin sucking in between or below the ribs).

🚨 Lips or fingernails turning blue.

🚨 No urination for more than 8 hours.

🚨 Difficult to wake, lethargic, or not making eye contact.

🚨 A stiff neck accompanied by a severe headache or vomiting.

🚨 The fever lasts for more than 3 days despite taking fever reducers, or the child's condition worsens.

【Regarding "Why the Fevers Keep Happening"】

• Toddlers and young children frequently get viral infections because their immune systems are still developing. It is entirely possible to be exposed to a different virus just a week after the last one.

• Since last week's fever resolved quickly and tests were normal, it was likely a simple viral infection.

• However, if recurring high fevers are accompanied by weight loss, night sweats, or swollen lymph nodes for over 4 weeks, your pediatrician may consider further evaluation (like blood or urine tests).

【When to Consider a Larger Hospital】

• For now, observe your child for 48 hours after starting the prescribed medication.

• If there is no improvement or if any of the warning signs (🚨) appear, contact your pediatrician first. They can guide you and provide a referral if necessary.

Key Takeaway: Focus on using fever reducers correctly, ensuring proper hydration, and observing for 48 hours. If you notice any signs of breathing difficulty, dehydration, or decreased consciousness, seek medical attention immediately.

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