High fever and cough in children are two classic symptoms of respiratory infections like colds or influenza. Chills, body aches and earaches may also be present. More serious respiratory conditions like pneumonia can start off with a cough and a fever, and eventually cause shortness of breath and chills, explains Mayo Clinic. While home care can often help diminish fever and coughing, always check with your health care provider when your child has a high fever and/or a persistent cough.
Considerations
Fever associated with the flu can last five days or longer, while coughing may persist for more than two weeks. Consult your doctor to determine if your child has pneumonia if she has a stubborn cough, lasting fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher that's accompanied by sweating and chills, advises Mayo Clinic. A rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher from birth to three months, with or without other symptoms, also warrants your doctor's input, as does a fever under 102 degrees Fahrenheit in older children if they are especially uncomfortable or irritable.
Fever Relief
Acetaminophen, sold as Tylenol, can be given to treat fever in children over age 3 months. Children older than 6 months can take ibuprofen, or Advil, to reduce fever. Never give aspirin to anyone under the age of 18. For all medications, check with your doctor about the correct dosage for your child's age and size. Soaking your child in lukewarm water for five to 10 minutes may also help relieve a high fever.
Drinking lots of water and other fluids like juice and broth can help keep your child hydrated. An oral rehydration solution such as Pedialyte is recommended for infants under age 1, according to Mayo Clinic. Pedialyte and others contain water and salts to restore
fluids and electrolytes.
Cough Supressants
Honey can relieve coughs. The recommendation is 1/2 tsp. for children ages 2 to 5; 1 tsp. for ages 2 to 11; and 2 tsp. for kids older than 12. Babies under age 1 should not be given honey, advises FamilyDoctor.org.
Cough drops or lozenges are generally appropriate for children age 4 and over. Younger children should not take cough drops due to the choking hazard. A vaporizing or steamy shower for older children can increase air moisture and comfort a dry throat.
Precautions
Over-the-counter cough and cold medications should not be given to infants and children younger than 2 years due to potentially serious side effects, cautions the American Academy of Pediatrics. Do not give aspirin to a feverish child because it has been associated with a very serious illness called Reye syndrome, which attacks the brain and liver. Very high fevers between 103 degrees Fahrenheit and 106 degrees Fahrenheit may cause confusion, convulsions, irritability, dehydration and hallucinations. Such temperatures require immediate medical attention.
References
- HealthyChildren.org; Caring for a Child with a Viral Infection; December 2010
- KidsHealth.org; What to Do If You Get the Flu
- Intelihealth; Protecting Your Kids From Colds and Flu; Henry H. Bernstein, D.O.; August 2010
- Mayo Clinic; Fever First Aid; January 2010
- Mayo Clinic; Fever Treatment: Quick Guide to Treating a Fever; January 2010
