Fever and Heatstroke

Children are very susceptible to illnesses like fever and heatstroke. Let us take a look at the common symptoms of these illnesses and what parents can do to help children cope with such illnesses.Fever is one of the common illnesses that affect children with the changing weather and heatstroke is caused mainly during summers. Although, these illnesses are common, parents must take right measure when children get affected with such illnesses. Here are some of the common symptoms and tips for parents to deal with such illnesses. In this articleCauses of Fever in ChildrenSymptoms of Fever in ChildrenTips for Dealing with FeverCauses of HeatstrokeSymptoms of HeatstrokeTips for Dealing with HeatstrokeCauses of Fever in ChildrenViral and bacterial infections are the common causes of fever in children. Fever is nothing but body’s own mechanism to fight infections. Children may also get affected with fever due to the allergic reaction to certain drugs or as a side-effect of certain vaccinations. But parents should not take these issues lightly and get the child examined by doctor as early as possible.Symptoms of Fever in ChildrenHave a quick look at some of the common symptoms of fever in children which can be observed along with increased body temperature.ChillsBody achePoor appetiteWeaknessRestlessnessHeadacheDizzinessDehydrationDryness in mouthTastelessness Tips for Dealing with FeverDo not be scared of fever, because in fact it helps the body fight infection. Avoid drugs for lowering the temperature as far as possible. Try to use physical methods for keeping the skin cool - with the help of light clothing, fan or air conditioner; sponging the whole body with a tap or stored water; applying cold packs on foreheads or limbs, and allowing free flow of air into the room. Encourage your child to drink more and more fluids. You can prepare soup, rice-kanji or semolina porridge for your child. You can also give glucose drink made using glucose powder that is available in various flavours like orange, lemon etc. It will help your child to cope with dehydration and dryness in mouth.The above remedies will help you to provide relief to your child from the symptoms of fever to a certain extent. But, you must get your child examined by your doctor. Never give any over-the-counter medicines to your child. Causes of HeatstrokeIf children are exposed to an extremely hot weather, they can get affected with heatstroke. They are more likely to get affected with heatstroke if they are dehydrated. Heatstroke may also affect children who are travelling in hot car or left in car by their parents. The temperature in parked car is very much higher than the actual temperature which can cause heatstroke within few minutes. Therefore, parents should never leave children in parked car as lot of hot car deaths are recorded amongst children. Symptoms of HeatstrokeThe symptoms of a heatstroke are hot and dry skin, very high fever, diarrhoea, agitation or lethargy, confusion, convulsions and loss of consciousness.Tips for Dealing with HeatstrokeThe child affected with heatstroke needs immediate attention. If you think that your child has heatstroke, take your child to a cool place and call the doctor. Wrap your baby in a large towel that has been soaked in ice water. As soon as the towel becomes warm, change it for a fresh chilled one. Give your child water to drink. You can give ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) to your child for providing her immediate relief from heatstroke. Encourage your child to drink lots and lots of fluid. Make her sit under the fan in a nice, cool and well-ventilated room.Fever and heatstroke are common illnesses but children coping with these illnesses should be provided immediate attention and care. Do not ignore such illnesses thinking that they are common. You must contact your doctor immediately in order to prevent such illnesses from becoming severe.