The symptoms of a sick child vary depending on the age of the child and the severity of the illness. Young infants and children may have nonspecific symptoms of illness, such as fuzziness, while older children can usually pinpoint what is bothering them-- for example, if they feel warm or if their stomach hurts.
Time Frame
Most illnesses in children are short-lived, usually lasting less than five days. This is the case with stomach viruses, colds and ear infections. Fevers lasting more than five days need evaluation by a medical provider, as it could be the sign of a more serious infection or an inflammatory condition.
Fever
Fever is a general symptom of illness. The definition of fever in a child is a rectal temperature higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, or 99 degrees Fahrenheit if taken by mouth or under the arm. According to Medline Plus, during an infection, microbes release substances called pyrogens, which act on the hypothalamus in the brain and cause it to increase the body's temperature, limiting the ability of the microbes to reproduce and spread the infection.
Dehydration
Dehydration is another common symptom of childhood illness and occurs when the child's intake of fluids falls behind fluid losses. This usually happens in children with vomiting and diarrhea. The signs of dehydration include dry lips and mouth, sunken eyes, rapid heart rate and decreased urine output. According to the Mayo Clinic, signs of severe dehydration include crying without tears, decreased activity level, sunken skull in infants, and irritability and confusion.
Changes in Mental Status
Any time a child changes their behavior or activity level could be a sign of illness. Sick children usually lack energy, feel weak and may not feel like playing. Seriously ill children can become listless or unconscious, be unable to focus or recognize her surroundings and hallucinate. It is important to seek prompt medical attention if a child's gaze becomes fixed, as he could be having a seizure. Seizures can happen with fevers, also known as febrile seizures, and are due to electrolyte imbalances from dehydration.
Considerations
Children usually tolerate low-grade fevers well, but become uncomfortable at higher temperatures. If this happens, over-the-counter fever medicines, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, may help her become more comfortable. Other ways to reduce the body's temperature include sponging the child down with lukewarm water.
Children with dehydration can also have problems with their electrolytes and kidney function. Sodium and potassium, two important electrolytes in the body, can be depleted with the persistence of dehydration, potentially causing swelling of the brain, heart rhythm abnormalities or seizures.
