Located in the brain, the hypothalamus acts as the body's internal "thermostat" and sends messages to the body in order to maintain an appropriate temperature. When a person encounters illness or infection, the hypothalamus will react by raising the body temperature. There are a few conditions that can cause frequent or recurrent fevers in children. Although uncommon, it is important for parents to know more about these conditions and know what measures can help prevent them.
Overdressing
The hypothalamus in younger children, in particular infants and newborns, is not as mature as that of older children. As a result, they cannot regulate their body temperature well and get easily overheated in a warm environment. Parents must take care not to over bundle a young child, according to KidsHealth.org, as this can lead to fevers.
Infections
What some adults consider "frequent fevers" may in fact be normal for a child. The average child has between four and eight respiratory infections per year, according to UptoDate.com, while others may have as many as 10 or 12 if they have older siblings, attend a daycare or preschool, or are around cigarette smoke. It is common for children to experience fevers with each episode of infection.
Familial Mediterranean Fever
Familial Mediterranean Fever, or FMF is a genetic disease that causes frequent fevers, chest pains, joint pain and swelling. It is most prevalent in people of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern descent, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Associated Periodic Syndrome
Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Associated Periodic Syndrome, or TRAPS, is a genetic disease responsible for frequent fevers along with abdominal pain, diarrhea and painful skin rashes that move from one part of the body to the other. Eye pain and swelling are also common in TRAPS sufferers. Symptoms generally last two or three weeks before subsiding.
