Child’s Sixth Day of Fever Following ER Consultation
Child’s age: 5 years Location: United States Gender: Male Weight: 46 lbs Height: 46 inches Medical History: Previous febrile seizure (most recent in December 2023) Current Medication: 12.5 mL of amoxicillin, prescribed for strep throat (diagnosed on March 14) Present Diagnoses: Strep-positive, herpangina, persistent fever (starting March 12, recurring since February 6) Symptoms: Complaints of mouth pain and burning sensation, stomach discomfort, sore throat primarily while swallowing. Vaccination Status: Up to date Recent Travel: Visit to the Dominican Republic from February 28 to March 5. The child has been experiencing fever since last Wednesday. On the following Friday, he received a strep throat diagnosis and commenced a course of antibiotics. The night before, he reported a burning feeling in his mouth along with the appearance of ulcer-like sores resembling canker sores on his tongue. His fever reached highs of 104 degrees, prompting a visit to the emergency room. There, he was diagnosed with herpangina and was discharged with a prescription for a combination of hydrocodone and Tylenol in liquid form. Currently, he is refusing to take any oral fever-reducing medication and I managed to get him to take a small amount of his antibiotics from a syringe. I am making every effort to encourage him to drink fluids, understanding how important it is to stay hydrated. Unfortunately, this has proven difficult. Presently, his temperature is 101 degrees, and he is resting. As we approach the sixth day of his fever, I wonder if this duration is typical for such conditions?
Answers (1)
3/17/2025, 6:14:59 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear that your child has been facing such a challenging situation with his fever and accompanying symptoms. It can be quite distressing for both you and him.
Main Points:
- A prolonged fever in children can be concerning, especially after a recent diagnosis of strep throat and herpangina.
- Keeping your child hydrated and managing discomfort are essential steps at this stage.
- Continued monitoring and symptom tracking are important to identify any changes that might need further attention.
Explanation:
A fever lasting six days can occur with certain viral infections, including herpangina, and may also be influenced by bacterial infections like strep throat. While some infections can cause prolonged fever, it’s crucial to ensure that there are no complications or new developments, especially since your child has a history of febrile seizures. The presence of mouth sores and difficulty swallowing can contribute to discomfort and can lead to challenges in maintaining hydration.
Next Steps:
- Hydration: Continue to encourage fluid intake. Offer small sips of clear fluids such as water, diluted electrolyte solutions, or broths frequently, even if he resists. You might consider popsicles or ice chips if he can manage them.
- Comfort Measures: Utilize cool compresses or a lukewarm bath to help lower his temperature if he is feeling hot and uncomfortable. Try to create a calm environment for rest.
- Medication Management: Since he’s refusing oral medications, you can continue to try administering them with a syringe or mixing liquid medications with something he enjoys (like juice or applesauce) if recommended by a pharmacist. Avoid forcing him, as this can lead to further resistance.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on any new or worsening symptoms (like the increase in fever, inability to take fluids, or signs of severe discomfort) and take note of them. If his fever does not improve in the next day or two, or if he shows any concerning signs (such as severe lethargy, difficulty breathing, or refusal to drink), it may be time to seek further medical evaluation.
You’re doing a great job trying to keep him comfortable. I hope he feels better soon! Let me know if you need more specific information or support.
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