HCP'S CORNER

Pediatric Fever

Fever is defined as an oral temperature
>100.0°F or a rectal temperature >100.8°F or
a temperature higher than an individual’s known normal daily value.

Why is it important to treat fever in children?

  • Fever is one of the most troublesome symptoms for parents, caregivers, and Doctors. If untreated, it may progress to brain damage, seizures, and death.
  • Even though fever management differs in specific clinical situations, in some cases it may increase metabolic and oxygen consumption, hence, treatment may sometimes be needed.
  • A clinical report from the American Academy of Paediatrics has suggested that the primary aim of offering treatment for a febrile child should be to improve the wholesome comfort level of the child and not just reduce the temperature.
  • A long-acting anti-pyretic will offer a long-lasting reduction of body temperature and provide the necessary comfort.
  • Doctor also believe that the risk of heat-related adverse outcomes is increased with a temperature above 104°F, and almost 90% of Doctors prescribe antipyretic therapy at temperatures>102°F.
  • Febrile seizures are the most common type of acute seizure, affecting approximately 2-14% of children aged 6 months to 6 years worldwide. Presently, Paracetamol, Mefenamic Acid, and Ibuprofen are the anti-pyretics of choice used to treat fever in children.

Other Sections to view

Management of Fever
About Mefenamic Acid