Normal temperature in school children. How to correctly determine the average temperature in children. What medicines to choose

The condition of a newborn child can be determined by several criteria: appetite, sleep, behavior. Among the main indicators of a healthy body is the normal temperature in an infant. It is not the same as that of an adult and depends on many factors.

Thermoregulation processes continue to form in children until the end of the first year of life. Accordingly, the temperature by this time will be the same as in adults (36, 6 degrees).

In the first month, the child's body temperature is in the range from 37 to 37.5 degrees. In the following months, the normal level decreases and can range from 36 to 37 degrees.

The temperature in children can be measured in several ways and various thermometers (electronic, infrared, mercury) can be used. The answer to the question of what temperature is considered the norm in children under one year old depends on the place where the measurement takes place.

• In the axillary region, the norm is 36–37.3 degrees.
• Oral temperature ranges from 36.6 to 37.2.
• Rectal temperature can be higher - from 36.9 to 38. This method of measurement is used when the baby can lie quietly for several minutes. Otherwise, you can damage the intestinal wall. The number 38 on the thermometer is considered the norm if the child is feeling well.

Since the heat exchange process has not yet been established, it is very easy for a baby to cool or overheat. It is very important to monitor the temperature and humidity in the room.... The child should not be wrapped up too much. All of these factors affect the temperature level of the body.

To determine what temperature is normal for a child, you should measure it every day for several days at the same time. You should not measure the temperature immediately after waking up, after eating, crying or after the baby's active actions. You can keep a diary of observations.

How to measure the temperature correctly

If applicable , then it should be used only for measurements in the armpit. After the sixth month of life, the temperature can be measured in a sitting position. Take care not to drop the thermometer. Mercury is dangerous to the human body; damage to the thermometer should be avoided. It will take 5-7 minutes to get a reliable result.

Electronic thermometer easy and safe to use. It can be used from the first month of a child's life. The sound timer will signal the end of the measurement procedure. This takes up to 3 minutes. Accurate readings can be achieved by oral or rectal administration. If you install it in the armpit, the result will fluctuate within a few degrees.

For oral use, the tip of the thermometer is placed in the mouth under the tongue. 1 minute is enough.

More preparations are required for rectal insertion. The child is laid on a side, the legs are bent to the tummy. The tip of the thermometer is lubricated with baby cream. After that, it is carefully and carefully inserted into the anus, no deeper than 2 cm.

Temperature indicator is a small strip with divisions that is applied to the child's forehead for a few seconds.

Dummy thermometer... This thermometer is very convenient for measuring temperature in children who are not one year old. But it can be used if the baby is used to the pacifier.

How to keep your baby's temperature at the same level

In order for the baby's body temperature to be equally normal - 36.6 degrees or slightly higher, simple hygiene rules should be followed.

What is the reason for the rise in temperature

An increase in temperature is the result of some provoking factor. Children who are under 3 months old should not bring down their body temperature below 38.2 degrees. You can disrupt the thermoregulation process. But this is in the event that the baby is feeling relatively well. If convulsions appear, he has become lethargic, appetite has disappeared, you should consult a doctor.

The reason for the rise in temperature can be:

• Viral and bacterial infections. In this case, there will be other symptoms: cough, redness of the throat, runny nose.
• Stressful situations.
• Overheat. Long sun exposure, improper dressing.
• Active games or long crying.
• Teething may be the cause.
• Fever can be due to an intestinal infection or a cold.
• The temperature in children under one year old may rise after vaccination.

In the event that an elevated body temperature lasts for three days, if it reaches 39 degrees and above, does not get confused by antipyretics, you should immediately seek medical help. In case of heat, the tissues of the body cease to receive oxygen, the defenses weaken, which is a very dangerous condition.

An ambulance should be called in cases when the following symptoms appear:

• Fever in a child under three months old.
• The baby's temperature is above 38.5 degrees.
• Convulsions appeared.
• Tension of the cervical spine, there is no way to bend the head forward.
• Breathing becomes noisy, frequent.
• The child is constantly crying, while he is lethargic and apathetic.
• Refusal to eat.
• There is frequent vomiting, diarrhea.
• Violation of urination or urine color.
• The appearance of a rash on the skin.
• The presence of chronic diseases.
• The inability to bring down the temperature with antipyretic drugs.

Before the doctor arrives, there are a few simple guidelines to follow.

• The baby should be given as much fluid as possible.
• The children's room needs to be ventilated. The child should be moved for this time to another place.
• The light should be dim. No harsh sounds.
• You can make compresses on the legs. A towel is moistened in water (about 20 degrees) and applied to the feet.
• You cannot wrap up a child.

If in children the body temperature drops, but slightly (up to 35 degrees) and at the same time they feel good, then you should not worry. Perhaps this is an individual feature of the organism. If the value falls below 35, they speak of hypothermia. You should consult a doctor. He will order additional examinations. Consultation of a pediatrician, endocrinologist, immunologist will be required.

Reasons for lowering the body temperature of a child up to a year:

• In children born prematurely.
• During sleep.
• Against the background of a long illness, the body's defenses are weakened.
• Avitaminosis, anemia.
• Hormonal imbalance.
• While taking antipyretic drugs.
• Malignant formations.
• Hypothermia.
• After severe poisoning.

If the decrease is associated with hypothermia, then the child should be warmed up (warm drink, warm clothes, you can apply a heating pad to the legs). It is important to harden and increase immunity.

When to measure temperature

It is not worth it once again, for no reason to measure the body temperature of children under one year old. This is stressful for them. But the procedure will be necessary if warning symptoms appear:

• Excessive anxiety, lethargy, moodiness.
• Increased need for fluid.
• Dryness of the mouth and lips is observed.
• Pulse and breathing become rapid, intermittent.
• The cheeks become very red or, on the contrary, pale.
• Chills appear, eyes are clouded.

A child under one year old requires increased attention from adults. Any non-observance of hygiene standards can lead to a malfunction of the body. This becomes the cause of various diseases.

The birth of a baby is always the most exciting moment in the life of his parents, because a tiny and fragile newborn needs their affection, love and care. New mums and dads have a lot to learn to provide comfort and proper care for their baby.

What to pay special attention to parents of a newborn

Monitor your newborn's body temperature as often as possible in the first month of life.

Parents pay special attention to the health of the child, noticing the slightest changes in his condition, and this applies primarily to the body temperature of the baby.

And the main questions that worry young mothers are what temperature of the newborn is considered normal, and at what indicators of the thermometer should the alarm sound.

What are the parameters for determining the normal temperature in an infant?

In a healthy adult, body temperature varies within 36.6-36.9 degrees... When this indicator rises to above 37 degrees, then this is the first signal for a person that his body has been attacked by pathogenic bacteria and thus is trying to fight the infection.

But newborn babies have physiological processes, including thermoregulation., which is responsible for body temperature, have not yet had time to form, so they have these indicators can differ significantly .

As soon as the baby is born, his body temperature corresponds to that of the mother, that is does not exceed 36.6 degrees... But in the following days, due to an unsettled thermoregulation mechanism, this indicator may increase or decrease depending on environmental conditions. Thus, the baby adapts to the outside world and the main task of his parents is to help the newborn's body adapt to new conditions.

Temperature standards for a newborn baby at 1 month

The upper limit of normal body temperature in a newborn baby.

The body temperature of a baby in the first month of his life can range from 36.3 to 37.5 degrees.

Both indicators are considered normal, provided that the baby feels good, is not capricious, does not refuse food and has a sound healthy sleep.

Daily regime

The body temperature of a child at 1 month may vary from the daily regimen.

In addition, the temperature regime of the newborn can change throughout the day and the thermometer readings depend on daytime and nighttime and the activity of the baby himself... For example, immediately after walking, eating or bathing, the body temperature will be slightly increased. Conversely, during sleep and calmness, this figure may be slightly underestimated.

If the baby's body temperature fluctuates slightly in the direction of decrease or increase, this is normal and there is no cause for concern for parents.

If the thermometer reads 37 degrees or more for several days in a row, then it is necessary urgently consult a doctor .

For what reasons the temperature rises in the baby

Overheating and dehydration can cause a baby's body temperature to rise at 1 month old.

As noted above, the temperature regime of a newborn depends on several factors, including the temperature of his environment. Therefore, if the thermometer when measuring the body temperature of the baby showed a mark 37-37.5 degrees, this does not mean that the child has a cold or is ill. Maybe its just wrapped too warmly or laid near a hot battery.

Hyperthermia (overheating)

In a hot, unventilated room or in direct sunlight, the baby may be exposed to hyperthermia (overheating). To avoid this, mothers should know what can provoke this condition.

What can cause hyperthermia

• The air in the room is too hot , where the newborn is most of the time.
• Overheating also happens if the child is put on a lot of warm clothes and cover it with a thick blanket on top.
• Long walks in hot summer weather under the open rays of the sun.
• Bathing water too hot the baby can also raise his temperature.
• Hyperthermia is also possible with the absence of a hat on the head of a newborn while walking in the scorching sun.
• Stay in the car on a long trip on a warm summer day.
• Can't leave the baby in a stroller under the sun or near a battery , since not only the stroller heats up, but also the baby himself.
• Dehydration of the body also one of the most common causes of hyperthermia in infants.

How to prevent overheating

Maintain the optimum temperature and humidity in the nursery.

In order to prevent a state of overheating in a newborn, parents need control the temperature and humidity in the room , and also do not dress the baby in numerous undershirts if the room is warm.

Other causes of fever

Prolonged crying or colic can cause a fever in a newborn.

But not only hyperthermia can cause an increase in temperature in an infant. Some processes occurring in his body during development can also provoke an increased mark when measuring the temperature regime.

Possible causes of high temperature:

• long crying newborn;
• colicaccompanied by pain and cramps in the tummy;
• allergic reaction, for example, an artificial mixture;
• the body's response to vaccination, for example, vaccination against hepatitis B or tuberculosis.

If an increase in temperature in a baby is associated with crying or colic, then parents should not be worried, this is a normal phenomenon for all newborns and for everything to return to normal, it is enough to calm the baby or give him tea to relieve pain in the tummy.

In the event that the baby's temperature has increased due to an allergic reaction, it is necessary to consult a pediatrician.

With the above symptoms, giving the child antipyretic drugs is unacceptable! Infants are treated with medicines if their temperature is 38 degrees or higher, and the treatment is carried out only under the supervision of a qualified doctor.

For what reasons the temperature of a child drops in 1 month of life

A condition in which the mark of the thermometer falls several divisions below the accepted temperature (35.5-35 degrees) called hypothermia, and it may indicate that the infant is hypothermic.

What can cause hypothermia

• Not enough warm clothing while walking in cool weather. This is especially true in the winter season.
• Lowering the temperature in an infant may be sleep related, when all processes in the body slow down. At night, it is advisable to cover the baby with a warm blanket so that he does not freeze.
• Lack of headgear on the baby's head ... A cap must be on the baby's head, even in summer.

Symptoms

Blue lips and nose are the first signs of hypothermia in a newborn baby.

How can parents know if their child is too cold? The main symptoms that a baby is cold are hiccups, blue tip of nose or lips, or cold nape.In this case, you should change your baby's clothes into warmer clothes or give him a full body massage, which will improve blood circulation.

Particular attention should be paid to the body temperature of infants who were born prematurely. For premature babies, hypothermia can negatively affect the cardiovascular system or the development of the cerebral cortex.

Devices and methods for measuring temperature in a newborn baby

To control the temperature of the baby's body, parents should purchase a special thermometer.

Types of thermometers

• The most common and familiar thermometer is mercury ... Its advantage is that it displays the most accurate temperature. But it also has many disadvantages. To measure the temperature, such a thermometer is kept for at least 10 minutes, and it is very difficult to withstand such a time with a baby. In addition, the mercury thermometer is made of fragile glass, and it breaks easily, and the mercury leaking from it poses a serious health hazard. Therefore, such a thermometer is not suitable for a newborn.
• It is considered safe and easy to use digital Thermometer ... After measurement, it beeps, which is very convenient. The disadvantage of a thermometer is that it shows an inaccurate temperature if they measure the temperature in the groin and for more accurate data, close contact with the body is needed.
• Increasing popularity among mothers is gaining dummy thermometer ... It is made in the form of a nipple from a safe material and shows a fairly accurate temperature. To use it, it is enough to let the baby suck for 3-5 minutes.
• Another safe and easy-to-use thermometer is infrared non-contact. Among the disadvantages of such a meter are data inaccuracy and high price.

Another question that worries young parents is how to correctly determine the temperature of a newborn baby. This can be done in several ways.

Correct temperature measurement in a newborn

• Thermometer placed in the axillary or groin area ... For this purpose, an electronic or mercury thermometer is used. It is easiest to do this when the baby is lying down or sleeping.
• Measure the temperature and orally , that is, put a thermometer in the baby's mouth. But this is difficult to do, since the baby may bite the thermometer or try to push it out of the mouth.
• The most accurate indicator of the temperature regime of a newborn can be obtained by measuring it rectal method. To do this, the thermometer is placed in the baby's anal passage, having previously lubricated the device with Vaseline. You can use either an electronic or a mercury meter, but it is best to opt for an electronic one.

Measure the temperature of a newborn only when the baby is in a relaxed state, for example, after eating or taking a warm bath. If the baby is naughty and cries, this procedure should be postponed for some time.

findings

In order to always keep the temperature regime of the newborn under control and to notice the slightest changes in his body, the temperature should be measured several times throughout the day, including morning and evening. If the baby has a high temperature for a long time, and at the same time he constantly cries and does not eat well, parents should not postpone a visit to the children's clinic.

Video about temperature standards in children and how to measure it

A high fever in a child is the most common complaint with which mothers turn to a pediatrician. When such a situation arises in the family, panic often arises, especially if the child is very small. It is important to know the rules for lowering the temperature and learn to understand when emergency medical intervention is needed.

In the first few days of life, the body temperature of a newborn may be slightly elevated (37.0-37.4 C in the armpit). By the year it is established within the normal range: 36.0-37.0 degrees C (more often 36.6 degrees C). Elevated body temperature (fever) is the body’s general defense response to illness or injury.

But I want to note right away that you should not self-medicate !!! It is important! Situations are different, in this regard, I decided to write such an important review, but everything that will be said below is only for your personal acquaintance, you need to know so that there is no panic. EVEN IF THE CHILD'S TEMPERATURE IS HIGH - CALL A DOCTOR AND ACCEPT THE DOCTOR'S RECOMMENDATIONS!

In modern medicine, fever is distinguished due to infectious diseases and non-infectious causes(lesions of the central nervous system, neuroses, mental disorders, hormonal diseases, burns, trauma, allergic diseases, etc.).

Infectious fever is the most common. It develops in response to action pyrogens(from the Greek pyros - fire, pyretos - heat) - substances that increase body temperature. Pyrogens are subdivided into exogenous (external) and endogenous (internal). Bacteria, getting into the body, actively multiply and in the process of their vital activity various toxic substances are released. Some of them, which are external pyrogens (supplied to the body from the outside), can increase the temperature of the human body. Internal pyrogens are synthesized directly by the human body itself (leukocytes - blood cells, liver cells) in response to the introduction of foreign agents (bacteria, etc.).

In the brain, along with the centers of salivation, respiratory, etc. there is a center of thermoregulation, "tuned" to a constant temperature of internal organs. During illness, under the influence of internal and external pyrogens, thermoregulation "switches" to a new, higher temperature level. An increased temperature in infectious diseases is a protective reaction of the body. Against its background, interferons, antibodies are synthesized, the ability of leukocytes to absorb and destroy foreign cells is stimulated, the protective properties of the liver are activated.

In most infections, the maximum temperature is set in the range of 39.0-39.5 C. Due to the high temperature, microorganisms reduce the rate of their reproduction and lose their ability to cause disease.

How to correctly measure the temperature of a child?

It is advisable that the baby has his own personal thermometer. Remember to clean it with alcohol or warm soapy water before each use. To find out what values \u200b\u200bare normal for your baby, measure his temperature when he is healthy and calm. It is advisable to measure it under the armpit and in the rectum. Do this in the morning, afternoon and evening. If the baby is sick, measure the temperature three times a day: morning, afternoon and evening. Every day at about the same time throughout the illness, this is especially important for children at risk. Record the measurement results. The doctor can judge the course of the disease by the temperature diary. Do not measure temperature under a blanket (if a newborn is wrapped tightly, its temperature can rise greatly). Do not measure the temperature, if the baby is scared, crying, excessively excited, let him calm down. The safest is an electronic thermometer.

In what areas of the body can the temperature of a child be measured?

Temperature can be measured in the armpit, groin, and rectum, but not in the mouth. An exception is temperature measurement with a dummy thermometer. Rectal temperature (measured in the rectum) is approximately 0.5 degrees C above the oral temperature (measured in the mouth) and one degree above the axillary or inguinal. For the same child, this range can be quite large.

For example: normal temperature in the armpit or inguinal fold is 36.6 degrees C; normal temperature measured in the mouth, 37.1 degrees C; the normal temperature measured in the rectum is 37.6 degrees C. A temperature slightly higher than the generally accepted norm can be an individual feature of the baby. Evening readings are usually higher than morning ones by a few hundredths of a degree. The temperature can rise due to overheating, emotional excitement, increased physical activity. Measuring the temperature in the rectum is convenient only for young children. A five to six month old baby will deftly wriggle out and will not let you do this. In addition, this method can be unpleasant for the child.

An electronic thermometer is most suitable for measuring rectal temperature, which allows you to do this very quickly: you will receive the result in just one minute. So, take a thermometer (pre-shake the mercury one to below 36 degrees C), lubricate its tip with baby cream. Put the baby on the back, lift his legs (as if you were washing him), with the other hand, carefully insert the thermometer into the anus by about 2 cm.Fix the thermometer between two fingers (like a cigarette), and squeeze the baby's buttocks with the other fingers.

In the groin and in the armpit, the temperature is measured with a glass mercury thermometer. You will receive the result in 10 minutes. Shake the thermometer to below 36.0 degrees C. Wipe dry the skin in the folds, as the moisture cools the mercury. To measure the temperature in the groin, place the baby on the barrel. If you are taking measurements under your armpit, sit him on your knees or hold him in your arms and walk with him around the room. Place the thermometer so that the tip is entirely in the skin fold, then with your hand press the baby's handle (leg) to the body.

What temperature should be reduced?

If your child is sick and has a fever, be sure to call a doctor who will diagnose, prescribe treatment and explain how to carry it out. According to the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO), initially healthy children should not lower their temperature below 39.0-39.5 degrees C. The exception is children at risk who previously had convulsions against a background of fever, children in the first two months of life (at this age all diseases are dangerous due to their rapid development and a sharp deterioration in the general condition), children with neurological diseases, chronic diseases of the circulatory system, respiration, with hereditary metabolic diseases. Such babies should be immediately given antipyretic drugs at a temperature of 37.1 degrees C. In addition, if the child's condition has worsened against the background of a temperature that has not reached 39.0 degrees C, chills, muscle pains, pallor of the skin are noted, then antipyretic drugs should be taken immediately.

In addition, fever exhausts and depletes the body's capabilities and can be complicated by hyperthermic syndrome (a variant of fever in which there is a dysfunction of all organs and systems - convulsions, loss of consciousness, respiratory and cardiac disorders, etc.). This condition requires urgent medical attention.

How to lower the temperature in a child?

1. Keep your child cool. It is dangerous to keep a child with a high temperature warm with blankets, warm clothes, or a heater in the room. These measures can lead to thermal shock if the temperature rises to a dangerous level. Dress the sick child lightly so that the excess heat goes away without hindrance and maintain the room temperature at 20-21 degrees C (if necessary, you can use an air conditioner or a fan without directing the air stream to the child).
2. Since the loss of fluid through the skin increases at high temperatures, the baby should be given plenty of water. Older children should be offered diluted fruit juices and juicy fruits, water as often as possible. Infants should be breastfed or given water more often. Encourage frequent drinking little by little (from a teaspoon), but do not rape the child. If the child refuses to take liquid for several hours a day, inform the doctor about it.
3. Rubdown. It is used as an adjuvant in combination with other measures to lower the temperature or in the absence of antipyretic drugs. Rubdown is indicated only for those children who have not previously had seizures, especially against a background of fever, or no neurological diseases. For rubbing, use warm water, the temperature of which is close to body temperature. Cool or cold water or alcohol (once used for antipyretic rubdowns) can cause not a decrease, but a rise in temperature and provoke tremors, which tells the "bewildered" body that it is necessary not to reduce, but to increase the release of heat. It is also harmful to inhale alcohol vapors. Using hot water also raises body temperature and, like wrapping, can cause heatstroke. Before starting the procedure, dip three rags into a bowl or basin of water. Place an oilcloth on your bed or on your lap, a terry towel on top of it, and a child on top of it. Undress your baby and cover him with a sheet or diaper. Squeeze one of the rags so that no water drips off, fold it up and place it on your child's forehead, and when the cloth dries, wet it again. Take a second cloth and begin to gently wipe the baby's skin from the periphery to the center. Pay special attention to the feet, legs, popliteal folds, groin folds, hands, elbows, armpits, neck, face. Blood that rushes to the surface of the skin with gentle rubbing will be cooled by the evaporation of water from the surface of the body. Continue rubbing the baby, changing the cloths as needed for at least twenty to thirty minutes (this is how long it takes to lower the body temperature). If the water in the basin cools down during the wiping process, add some warm water there.
4. You can pre-freeze water in small bubbles and, after wrapping them in a diaper, apply to the areas where large vessels are located: inguinal, axillary areas.
5. Use of antipyretic drugs. The drugs of choice for fever in children are PARACETAMOL and IBUPROFEN (trade names for these drugs can be very diverse). It is recommended to prescribe IBUPROFEN in cases where paracetamol is contraindicated or ineffective. A longer and more pronounced decrease in temperature was noted after using IBUPROFEN than after PARACETAMOL. AMIDOPIRINE, ANTIPYRINE, FENACETIN are excluded from the list of antipyretic drugs due to their toxicity.Acetylsalicylic acid (ASPIRIN) is prohibited for use in children under 15... The widespread use of METAMIZOL (ANALGIN) as an antipyretic is not recommended by WHO, because it inhibits hematopoiesis, can cause serious allergic reactions (anaphylactic shock). Long-term loss of consciousness is possible with a decrease in temperature to 35.0-34.5 degrees C. The appointment of METAMIZOL (ANALGIN) is possible only in cases of intolerance to the drugs of choice or, if necessary, intramuscular injection, which should only be carried out by a doctor.

   When choosing the form of the medicine (liquid medicine, syrup, chewable tablets, suppositories), it should be borne in mind that drugs in solution or syrup act in 20-30 minutes, in candles - after 30-45 minutes, but their effect is longer. Candles can be used in a situation where the child vomits while taking fluids or refuses to drink the medicine. It is better to use suppositories after a child's bowel movement;

   Medicines in the form of sugary syrups or chewable tablets can be allergic to aromas and other additives. The active substances themselves can also cause an allergic reaction, so you need to be especially careful at the first doses.

   If you are giving medication to a child, especially those related to dosages for certain ages, you should read the instructions carefully so as not to exceed the recommended dosage. Be aware that the doctor may change the dosage for your child.

   When using alternately different forms of the same medicine (suppositories, syrups, chewable tablets), it is necessary to summarize all the doses received by the child in order to avoid overdose. Reuse of the drug is possible no earlier than 4-5 hours after the first dose and only if the temperature rises to high values.

   The effectiveness of one or another antipyretic agent is individual and depends on the particular child.

What not to do if your child has a fever.

• Do not force your baby to lie down. A really sick child will be in his own crib. If your baby wants to get out of it, it is quite possible to allow him to do something calm. Try to avoid excessive activity: this can lead to a rise in temperature.
• Do not give your child an enema unless the doctor specifically prescribed it.
• Do not dress or cover your child too warmly.
• Do not cover your baby with a wet towel or wet sheet; this can interfere with the transfer of heat through the skin.

When is it necessary to call the doctor again to the baby?

• Measured, the temperature in the armpit is 39.0-39.5 degrees C, the rectal temperature exceeded 40.0 degrees C.
• The child had seizures for the first time (the body is tense, the eyes roll back, the limbs twitch).
• The child cries inconsolably, cries out in pain when touched or moved, groans, does not respond to external stimuli, or his body is limp.
• The child has purple spots on the skin.
• It is difficult for your child to breathe even after you have cleared his nasal passages.
• The baby's neck seems tense, and he does not let him bend his chin to his chest.
• The onset of a heat wave follows exposure to an external heat source, such as the sun on a hot day or inside a car in hot weather. Heatstroke is possible, which requires immediate medical attention.
• A sudden rise in temperature occurred in a child with a slightly elevated temperature, but too warmly dressed or wrapped in blankets. Should be treated like heatstroke.
• The doctor told you to report immediately if the child develops a fever.
• It seems to you that the child has something serious, although you are at a loss to say why you decided so.
• The child has exacerbated chronic diseases (heart disease, kidney disease, neurological disease, etc.).
• The child is dehydrated, which can be seen by such signs as: rare urination, dark yellow urine, a small amount of saliva, tears, sunken eyes.
• The child's behavior seems atypical: he is unusually moody, apathetic or overly drowsy, cannot sleep, is sensitive to light, cries more than usual, refuses to eat, tugs at his ears.
• The child had a low temperature for several days, and then suddenly rose sharply, or a child with a cold that began a few days ago suddenly developed a fever. Such a fever may indicate a secondary infection, such as otitis media or strep throat.
• The fever does not decrease with medication.
• The temperature of 37.0-38.0 degrees C persists for a long time (more than a week).
• The fever lasts for more than a day without any other signs of illness.

High temperature in a child (38-39 or higher), what to do? updated: September 11, 2017 by: Pavel Subbotin

A high temperature in a child (fever) is considered one of the most formidable symptoms for parents. Many mothers try to lower even the smallest temperature, believing that they will do it better for their baby. In fact, fever is a defense mechanism of the body, including children.

What are the causes of high body temperature in a child? First, many viruses and bacteria die at certain temperatures - the body is trying to kill the infection in itself. Secondly, a temperature above normal leads to vasodilation and blood flow to many organs and tissues, enhancing metabolic processes.

Third, fever promotes increased production of immune cells, which boosts immunity. That is why doctors do not recommend lowering body temperature if it has not reached 38.5 0 C.

What should you do if you notice that your child has a fever? First of all, you need to measure it accurately. Many parents rely on subjective sensations, putting their lips to the forehead or face of the child, so they roughly assume how many degrees the temperature. It is not right.

You need to know exactly how high the baby's temperature is. For correct body temperature measurement, the thermometer must be installed in the armpit, pressing firmly with your hand. In time, about three minutes is enough.

It should be remembered that in a newborn child, a temperature of up to 37.5 0 C is considered the norm, you should not try to lower it. In a healthy child, an increase in body temperature can be observed immediately after eating, sleeping, physical or emotional stress. If such an increase in temperature is not accompanied by other complaints, then you should not draw negative conclusions.

The actions of parents at a high temperature in a child

If the temperature is not higher than 38.0 0 C, the baby does not have chills and there is no severe concomitant pathology, for example, heart disease, pathology of the nervous system, convulsive syndrome, warm limbs, then you should not bring down such a fever. Every half hour, you should measure your body temperature, and if it rises above 38.5 0 C, then call a doctor at home and give the baby antipyretic drugs (suppositories, syrup or antibiotic).

Before the arrival of the doctor, parents should provide the baby with first aid. The child should be put to bed, not covered, even if there is a strong chill. Provide fresh air and give your baby plenty of water. Doctors allow you to wipe the baby's body with cool water or make cold compresses.

It is impossible to wipe the child's body and limbs with alcohol or vinegar at elevated body temperature, especially if the baby has cold feet. The toxic substances of these solutions are absorbed into the baby's body through the skin. It is also impossible to cover a feverish child, no matter how strong the chill may be. It is also not worth treating the child on your own, including giving an antibiotic. Any medications, including antipyretics, after determining the causes of the temperature, should be prescribed by a doctor!

Why does a child have cold feet and hands with fever?

Why does the child have cold feet at a temperature of 39.0 0 C? Why are the legs and arms cold, while the rest of the body "burns" and may even be red? The presence of such symptoms is often associated with a sharp spasm of the small vessels of the limb. This is called "pale fever." This temperature drops very hard and requires the addition of antispasmodic drugs to the therapy.

First aid will be to warm the cold feet. The limbs can be dipped in hot water or rubbed with mustard (folk remedies are effective in these cases). No antipyretic drugs will help while the baby has cold hands and feet.

Diseases and conditions that may be accompanied by fever

Stomach pain, red throat, sore throat, headache, cough, frequent urination, snot, cramps are just some of the reasons that cause fever and chills.

The causes of fever in a child are usually the following.

Sore throat or pharyngitis (red throat). This is a viral infection. An increase in body temperature in this case indicates an infectious cause of the disease. If the temperature rises sharply to 39.0 0 C and above from the first days of the illness, a runny nose, snot, coughing, sneezing join it, the throat begins to hurt and it is red, most likely, the baby has a viral infection and intoxication develops (a condition that occurs when poisoning by toxins of viruses or bacteria). Such a sore throat is less dangerous than herpes.

Today, herpetic sore throat is common. With tonsillitis (tonsillitis), an increase in temperature is often accompanied by lethargy, drowsiness, pallor and nausea, a stomach ache or a headache may appear, which indicates a poisoning of the child's body with bacterial toxins. The throat does not hurt much and is slightly red. Angina should be differentiated from diphtheria - a serious fatal disease.

The throat with diphtheria does not hurt, not red, and the temperature rises. If you have all of the above symptoms, you should immediately contact your pediatrician. The temperature will be held until an antibiotic is prescribed. Antipyretic drugs should be given immediately, without waiting for high numbers, because angina is quite dangerous.

The presence of symptoms such as abdominal pain, combined with a high body temperature, can indicate any inflammatory processes in the child's abdominal cavity, including poisoning. When a child has a stomach ache, consultation with a surgeon is required. Starting from appendicitis, pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), peritonitis (inflammation of the peritoneum), ending with pyelonephritis (inflammation of the kidney tissue). The temperature rises to 39 and above, chills appear. If the stomach hurts and there is frequent urination, then you can suspect a genitourinary infection.

Fever against the background of thinning of the stool (diarrhea) may indicate that there is an intestinal infection in the body. The manifestation of these symptoms can be combined with vomiting and abdominal complaints. Diarrhea can also occur with poisoning. If at the same time the stomach hurts, helminthic invasion cannot be ruled out. How many days the fever will last depends on the severity of the illness. In severe poisoning with toxins against the background of dehydration, even hallucinations can occur.

A complex of symptoms, such as headache and fever, may indicate an intoxication of the body (poisoning with toxins) or a severe infectious lesion of the nervous system (meningitis). In the latter case, fever and headache are combined with vomiting. Antibiotic and detoxifying agents are required in this case. Headache, fever and cramps can be a formidable sign of a tumor process.

Fever and frequent urination... As a rule, such a complaint is a manifestation of the inflammatory process in the bladder. It will be painful to urinate. The temperature can rise to 38.0 0 C. If the inflammatory process spreads to the kidneys, pyelo- or glomerulonephritis develops, the temperature rises to high numbers (above 38.0 0 C), stomach and back ache, and frequent urination begins. When poisoning with bacteria toxins, vomiting, weakness and drowsiness occur. In these cases, doctors will definitely prescribe an antibiotic, otherwise the fever can last a long time.

Fever with a runny or stuffy nose... An increase in body temperature and nasal mucus is usually a manifestation of an acute respiratory viral infection. If there is prolonged nasal congestion and a small amount of snot, a decrease in smell, headache and an increase in body temperature to low numbers, up to about 37.5 0, then sinusitis, inflammation of the paranasal sinuses should be suspected, for the treatment of such a disease, you should immediately start taking an antibiotic ...

Increased body temperature with stomatitis may be higher than 39.0 0 C. This condition usually occurs with severe viral or bacterial stomatitis. The infection causes a severe inflammatory process in the oral mucosa. With fungal stomatitis, the temperature may not rise. In this case, an antibiotic is not needed, the appointment of antifungal drugs will be sufficient, and in case of bacterial stomatitis, an antibiotic is required. With stomatitis, it is also important to consult a doctor on time.

Fever and cough... The first thing to think about is pneumonia. Yes, pneumonia is one of the most common causes of this symptom complex. Today, due to the aggressiveness of infections, pneumonia is very dangerous with complications. Cough with pneumonia is frequent, at the beginning of the disease dry, then wet. The temperature is above 39 degrees, there is a headache, nausea, weakness, snot. The body is gradually poisoned by the infection. If a cough appears against the background of a low temperature and hurts in the sternum, then most likely bronchitis develops. A cough can be combined with an increase in temperature even in the presence of a foreign body in the bronchi. Snot in a child usually appears, both with pneumonia and bronchitis.

In any of these conditions, you should urgently consult a doctor, since any illness is dangerous for a child!

The reasons why the body temperature can rise without other symptoms can be as follows:

1. Overheating baby... A common mistake of young mothers is that they always try to wrap up their baby. In a child under one year old, thermoregulation processes are somewhat atypical, and any overheating can cause a sharp increase in body temperature above 39 degrees. In such a situation, the first thing to do is to undress the baby. For older children, prolonged exposure to the sun can be the cause of fever, which can lead to heatstroke. First aid is to chill the baby, such as applying a cold compress to the forehead, moving the baby to the shade, or giving cold water to drink.
2. Severe psycho-emotional trauma... Many parents do not associate a child's fever with, for example, exams or quarrels with peers. But the nervous system in children can react to such circumstances in its own way, in some cases the child's temperature rises.
3. Teething... A common cause of an increase in body temperature is against the background of the complete well-being of the child. When teething, you can notice a number of symptoms - the baby has become more whiny and capricious, the stomach is swollen, appetite is reduced, and the surface of the gums is slightly swollen or reddened. Parents at these moments need to be especially attentive to the child, since during teething, the local immunity decreases in the baby, which increases the likelihood of infection, bronchitis or tonsillitis may develop, and the throat may turn red. Therefore, the legs of the child should always be warm. A high temperature during teething can last for several days, diarrhea can join all of the above, but this will not speak of poisoning, like a red throat, cough, snot will not be a sign of bronchitis. Teething throat usually does not hurt, even if there is a cough. Many mothers immediately begin to give the baby antibiotics, but this should not be done. You can give antipyretics, but it is better to consult a doctor for advice. Sometimes during teething, there is frequent urination.
4. Preventive vaccinations... A normal reaction is an increase in body temperature in children after vaccinations. It can be observed in the first three days after the injection, after some vaccines, for example, against measles, rubella and mumps, the fever can last up to 15 days. It is necessary to reduce the temperature after vaccination.

How to lower the temperature? Traditional and folk remedies

Treating a child without consulting a doctor is fraught with sad consequences, so any treatment should be started with a visit to a specialist. First aid, of course, can be provided by parents, but the help of a doctor will be more effective. To date, WHO experts are allowed to treat fever in children with antipyretics such as paracetamol and ibpurofen, the dosage forms of which are suspension, suppositories, tablets.

How long and in what dosage the drug should be used is decided by the doctor. It is not allowed to use "Analgin" and "Aspirin", because after these drugs serious complications may occur, for example, a child may have a headache.

For the smallest, a convenient form of the drug is rectal suppositories, suppositories, especially when the body temperature rises at night or chills begin. Suppositories are fast-acting medicines that are well absorbed into the bloodstream and cause fewer complications. In the case when a child has convulsions or vomiting against a background of fever, suppositories are an ideal option for antipyretic drugs. Rectal suppositories are also convenient for treating disabled children.

For older children, suspensions or syrups are recommended. It is better to use products without dyes or fragrances to reduce the likelihood of an allergic reaction to the drug. Any antipyretic drugs should be taken no more than once every 5-6 hours, be it syrup or suppositories.

Folk remedies that will help relieve fever, especially when chills hit, are made from St. John's wort, chamomile and yarrow. From these herbs, infusions, compresses are made.

Why is fever dangerous for children? The appearance of seizures

The most formidable complication of fever for a child is convulsions, they are also called.

The reasons why seizures occur against the background of fever can be different:

• difficult childbirth;
• traumatic brain injury;
• intoxication of the nervous system;
• poisoning with bacteria toxins.

Convulsions can manifest as:

• twitching of certain muscle groups;
• throwing back the head;
• rolling eyes;
• fading;
• holding or stopping the child's breathing.

How long the seizures last is not always known, so you need to urgently call an ambulance. With severe convulsions, more than 20 minutes, the child's jaw sometimes clenches. Do not open them with your finger or a spoon, otherwise you can harm your baby. If the convulsions have stopped before the arrival of the doctors, then try to assess the condition of the baby yourself: what is his breathing, how he reacts to the surrounding space.

When parents first pick up a tiny lump, anxiety comes along with a legitimate sense of joy and pride. How to make your baby healthy? He's kind of hot. How to find out what temperature a child has from a month to a year is considered normal?

People with a hypertrophied sense of responsibility begin to study pediatric textbooks. Moms and dads, who have a second and third baby, are much more calm about such things. They already know what temperature norm is for each age and in what cases it is necessary to sound the alarm. It is not so difficult.

Causes of temperature fluctuations in children of the first year of life

Newborns 1, 2 months old have a rapid development of nervous and hormonal regulation. It is on it that all the signs of health depend, especially the balance between the return and the formation of heat in the body. Two organs have the strongest effect on heat regulation:

• the thyroid gland, which is located at the front of the neck,
• hypothalamus - it is located in the center of the brain.

Up to 6 months these two bodies work inconsistently, from 7 to 12 months the connection between them is only getting better. Therefore, the slightest change in external conditions can cause an increase in the warmth of the skin in an absolutely healthy child, that is hyperthermia or decrease - hypothermia.

The answer to the natural question "what is the temperature norm for a child from 1 to 12 months?" simple - 36.4-37.3 ℃ when measured in the armpit, with strong changes in external conditions and the activity of the baby - for a short time 35.5-36.3 (reduced) or 37.4-38 ℃ (increased).

Small deviations up and down from this interval with a good mood of the crumbs and without additional symptoms is more likely an indicator of insufficient care than a disease. If it bothers you, consult your pediatrician. He will dispel your doubts and give the necessary recommendations.

Causes of temperature in children under one year of age

These influences are often natural and not dangerous. In other cases, the threat to the baby can be easily eliminated or prevented, but all parents should know when a healthy baby's thermometer shows values \u200b\u200babove the generally known temperature norm:

• Hearing crying and screaming for various reasons: due to colic in the tummy, wet diapers, hunger or thirst - up to 38 ℃. The respiratory muscles work actively, so the body produces a lot of heat.
• Active movements, when the little man learns to crawl quickly at 7, 8, 9 months and stomp at 10, 11, 12 months. This is hard work for a fragile body, especially if they do not engage in special developmental exercises or swimming with a crumb. He gets the load while walking, like an athlete in training. And if a woolen suit is put on the street and a thick overalls on top, then overheating is ensured.
• During breastfeeding, the normal temperature in children is 37-37.2 ℃ on average. This is not an easy job. To get mom's milk, several muscle groups have to strain, work like a pump, and from these efforts the body heats up.
• The appearance of the first milk teeth. In typical cases, this happens at six months, but maybe at 3, 4, 5 months, in modern children, acceleration is manifested even in this. If at 7-10 months, this is also normal. It is usually combined with profuse salivation, clear nasal discharge, increased excitability, swelling and redness of the gums, attempts to gnaw everything that is in the reach. Ointments for anesthetizing gums, special cooling teether toys can help.
• Overheating due to hot weather or too warm clothes while walking outside - up to 37.6 ℃, and this is no longer the norm. Please note that a further rise in temperature for this reason may cause heat stroke. This is especially dangerous for babies at 1, 2, 3 months. Their thermoregulatory mechanisms are still too weak.

Every year, there are cases when mothers walk outside in hot weather, and the baby sleeps in a stroller made of dense synthetic material, which literally gets hot in direct sunlight. The kid does not even have time to cry before losing consciousness.

In terms of overheating, "kangaroo" are also dangerous, in which they often carry children of 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 months. The body of the crumbs heats up from the mother, which can become very dangerous in a stuffy room in a shopping center.

Why do children aged 1 month to 1 year have a temperature of 35-36.5 ℃?

For an infant, a temperature level less than 36.4 ℃ can be considered a cause for concern, but the reasons here are most often not pathological. Although an extra consultation with a pediatrician does not hurt anyway.

Low thermometer values \u200b\u200bare not signs of illness in such cases:

• With hypothermia, the temperature in children can deviate from normal and reach values \u200b\u200bof 35.8-36.5 ℃. Usually, this state manifests itself in behavior in the form of anxiety, crying, some kind of movement in an attempt to warm up.
• Increased reaction to hypothermia. This is especially true for the age of 1, 2, 3 months. If at the same time the baby has an appetite, he is awake in a good mood and sleeps peacefully from 20 hours a day at the age of 1 month to 15 hours for a 3-month-old, then you just need to change the external conditions for him. Put on sliders and undershirts warmer. And do not swaddle. Let him learn to move and produce more kilocalories of heat.
• Prematurity or birth weighing less than 2.8 kg for girls and 2.9 kg for boys. For such children, a low temperature of 35.5 ℃ plus or minus half a degree will be characteristic until they gain a weight normal for their age. You need protection against hypothermia, but overheating is unacceptable.
• Measurement early in the morning immediately after waking up. Even in adults, by the evening, the body becomes 1-1.5 ℃ warmer than in the morning. What can we say about the temperature of the crumbs at 6, 8 or 11 months. It is quite normal if it will be 35.5-35.8 in the morning and 37.2 in the evening. An overly responsible mother begins to get nervous - what is it, why does she jump again, why does she constantly rise in the evening. But if the baby has no signs of a cold, then most likely the temperature rises for physiological reasons.

All types of energy in the body: electrical, chemical, mechanical - ultimately turn into heat. Therefore, by the evening, the heat accumulates, and during the night it is consumed.

Conclusion

Parents, observing the condition of a baby up to 1 year old, should not be afraid of a slight decrease in temperature to 36.4-36.2 ℃ and an increase to 37.3 ℃, if there are no other alarming symptoms. You just need to make sure that the baby is comfortable - he is adequately dressed, dry, the air around him is warm and humid enough. A daily rise in the evening for infants is also considered normal.

It should be understood that the reading of a thermometer for a healthy organism is a reflection of two opposite processes: the formation of heat and its return. Therefore, it is possible to determine what the norm is only in relation to a specific situation, but in any case it should not be lower than 35 and higher than 38. If more heat is generated in a small body than is released into the external environment, you need to help get rid of overheating, less - to protect baby from hypothermia.

But when anxiety symptoms, skin, colds or intestinal symptoms are added to the child's temperature, as well as if a stable decrease or increase persists, the help of a doctor, primarily a pediatrician, is needed, who can then refer to narrower specialists.