Fever

Children are more likely than adults to have fevers. If you’re concerned about your child’s fever and they need symptom relief, see the experts at Galaxy Pediatrics in Red Oak and Plano, Texas. The experienced pediatric doctors and nurse practitioners determine the cause of a fever and provide treatment recommendations. Schedule a sick visit at Galaxy Pediatrics by calling the office or booking a same-day appointment online today.

What is a fever?

A fever is an increase in body temperature that often indicates an illness or infection. Children have fevers if their body temperatures are 100.4°F or highter.

While fevers often go away on their own over time, sometimes the underlying cause requires medical intervention to avoid severe symptoms and complications. 

Which symptoms may accompany a fever?

Symptoms of having a fever may include:

• Sweating
• Chills
• Shivering
• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Reduced appetite
• Dehydration
• Weakness
• Irritability

You can use an oral, ear, or forehead thermometer to check your child’s temperature. If you’re concerned about them or their fever doesn’t go away on its own, contact Galaxy Pediatrics.

What can cause a fever?

The following conditions are some of the causes for fever:

• Flu
• COVID-19
• Viral infections
• Bacterial infections
• Inflammatory conditions
• Heat exhaustion
• Some immunizations
• Certain medications

Finding the cause of your child’s fever helps their provider determine how best to treat it. Taking precautions to reduce the risk of getting sick, such as frequent hand washing and vaccinations, may reduce the risk of a fever and other illness symptoms.

How is the cause of a fever diagnosed?

The Galaxy Pediatrics experts discuss your child’s medical history and symptoms to help determine possible causes of a fever. 

They complete a physical exam and may take a nasal or throat swab to screen for respiratory infections. Your child’s provider may also order blood tests, urine tests, chest X-rays, or other diagnostic tests to confirm a diagnosis and determine the most appropriate treatment.

How are fevers treated?

Your child’s personalized treatment plan depends on the cause of their fever and may include:

• Over-the-counter medications
• Prescription medications
• Intravenous (IV) medications
• Rest
• Fluids

Getting plenty of rest and fluids is critical to help your child’s body fight an infection. Keep an eye on their symptoms to ensure they’re improving.

Your child’s provider follows up to ensure they are feeling better. Call the Galaxy Pediatrics office anytime with questions or if symptoms worsen.

Schedule a sick visit at Galaxy Pediatrics to have your child’s fever evaluated by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.