Q: My 35-month-old gets frequent high fevers over 40°C (104°F) lasting up to 10 days. Is this normal and what should I ask the doctor?
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 35-month-old son currently has a fever over 40°C (104°F) and I am very worried. He has had a fever at least 15 times this year alone. Whenever he gets a fever, it easily exceeds 40°C (104°F) and can last up to 10 days. Is this normal?
He doesn't attend daycare, but he has an older brother who goes to school. Most of the time when he had these fevers, there were accompanying illnesses diagnosed, such as a cold, pneumonia, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, or gastroenteritis. I have looked up PFAPA syndrome and am wondering about it. Is it a normal pattern for a child to get sick this frequently and severely? What should I ask the doctor to check when we go to the hospital?
Answer:
Having high fevers over 40°C (104°F) up to 15 times a year, with episodes lasting up to 10 days, is not considered a typical pattern for a child. Because these fevers are highly frequent, severe, and prolonged, it is necessary to investigate the underlying causes of recurrent high fevers. This may include evaluating for conditions like PFAPA (Periodic Fever, Aphthous Stomatitis, Pharyngitis, Adenitis) syndrome, other periodic fever syndromes, or potential immune system issues.
When you visit your pediatrician, be sure to clearly communicate the following key points:
• The exact frequency and severity: "He has had recurrent high fevers about 15 times this year, consistently exceeding 40°C (104°F)."
• The duration: "The fever episodes can last up to 10 days."
• Provide a complete list of the specific diagnoses he received during each past fever episode (e.g., cold, pneumonia, hand-foot-and-mouth).
• Specifically ask if they should evaluate for PFAPA syndrome or other recurrent fever disorders.
To help your doctor make an accurate assessment, it is highly recommended to keep and bring a detailed fever log that includes the dates, peak temperatures, duration of the fevers, and any accompanying symptoms. Please consult your pediatrician as soon as possible for a thorough in-person medical evaluation.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
