Typically, fever – the rise in normal body temperature together with a higher pulse and respiration rate – is part of the body's defensive reaction to infectious diseases that are very common in children, such as otitis or a simple cold. , and other ailments caused by viruses and bacteria.
Dehydration linked to high and prolonged fevers is the greatest danger for children who suffer from them, which is why it is so important that they drink plenty of fluids during the febrile process. Pediatricians recommend that these liquids contain carbohydrates and therefore fruit juices, smoothies and porridges are advisable …
However, there are times when infant fever can be the symptom of very serious ailments. It is sometimes the first sign of inflammatory or autoimmune disorders , and can also be due to an infection caused by a shortage of normal white blood cells caused by leukemia. But, luckily, it is a minority of cases.
In any case, when there is a fever, the Spanish Association of Primary Care Pediatrics (AEPap) recommends urgent medical consultation in babies under three months ; and also in older children who present a series of alarming signs, such as stiff neck, seizures or loss of consciousness, difficulty in breathing, excessive weakness and crying, very persistent vomiting and diarrhea, little or no urination, and spotty spots. dark red or purple color that does not disappear when the surrounding skin is stretched.
