The fever is a temporary increase in body temperature and is part of the overall response of the body’s immune system so it is not a illness by itself, but is the result of a infection. experts from Harvard explain when it becomes an emergency to look for medical care.
At what point does a fever become a medical emergency?
In accordance with Tony Golen y Hope Ricciottieditors-in-chief of Harvard Women’s Health Watchalthough the fever itself is a sign that “something is wrong”, if the temperatura coroporal reaches the 39.4 degrees Celsiuss, it is pertinent to seek medical attention; and if it exceeds 40.6°CYou have to go directly to an emergency room.
“If you are over the age of 65 or immunocompromised, especially if you may have been exposed to COVID-19, call your doctor if your fever reaches 101°. Anyone with a fever of 103° or higher should do the same. And if your temperature reaches 105 degrees, go straight to an emergency room.”
Harvard Health
In the case of a person infected with COVID-19it is common for the temperature to rise to 38°C, similar to your immune system’s response to an infection or other invader. In this type of disease, if it begins to rise from the 38 degreesyou have to seek immediate assistance.
What are the complications of a high temperature in children?
According to mayo clinicthe fever It does have complications, particularly children between 6 months and 5 years are at higher risk of having a seizure when they have a fever (febrile seizure). Of note, about a third of children who have a febrile seizure will have another, usually within the next 12 months.
- A febrile seizure It can mean loss of consciousness, tremors in the extremities on both sides of the body, rolling eyes or body rigidity. Although alarming to parents, the vast majority of Feverish convulsions does not cause lasting effects.
children with relatively high fever they may not look or act particularly ill. The treatment of fever depends on the degree of malaise. If your child feels uncomfortable or restless, these home care strategies they can help:
- Remind your child to drink fluids.
- Dress him in light clothing.
- Use a light blanket if you feel cold, until the chills pass.
- Do not give aspirin to children or adolescents.
- Do not give a baby any type of pain reliever until you have spoken to a doctor and have been checked out.
If your baby is less than 3 months old and has fever, it is important that you call the doctor immediately. The doctor should be called if the minor is concerned, dehydrationstiff neck, abdominal pain, trouble breathing, rash and pain or swelling articular.