How to reduce fever in children with roseola?

Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
Updated on September 29, 2024
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Roseola in infants is a common febrile exanthematous disease observed in toddlers and infants. Its primary characteristic is the sudden onset of high fever without obvious triggers, with body temperatures reaching 39 to 40 degrees Celsius. Typically, the fever lasts three to five days. During periods of high fever, the child may become irritable or even experience convulsions. Therefore, when confronted with high fever associated with roseola, appropriate fever-reducing treatments can be given. Generally, if the child's overall condition is good, physical cooling methods like a lukewarm bath, cooling patches, or the oral intake of traditional Chinese medicine that reduces fever may be chosen. In cases of persistent high fever—temperatures above 38.5 degrees Celsius at night or above 39 degrees Celsius—children who have previously experienced febrile convulsions may require appropriate fever-reducing medications, dosed according to the child’s weight.

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Written by Huang Kun Mei
Pediatrics
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What causes roseola in infants?

Exanthema subitum in children is caused by a viral infection, generally starting abruptly with a fever above 39°C, and a rash appears as the fever subsides. The rash is roseola. During the period of exanthema subitum, it's important to avoid drafts, ensure indoor ventilation twice a day, and keep the air fresh. Since exanthema subitum is caused by a viral infection, it is necessary to treat children with antiviral medications. It is recommended to use traditional Chinese medicine antivirals because they tend to have fewer side effects. During the exanthema subitum period, avoid going out, and children should not attend kindergarten to steer clear of crowded places.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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Can children with roseola be exposed to wind?

Pediatric emergency care for young children involves dealing with acute viral infections causing feverish illnesses, where the fever can persist for 3 to 5 days. During this period, if going outside, it's important to keep warm to prevent further worsening of cold symptoms. Therefore, appropriate protective measures should be taken when going out. As for exposure to the wind, a slight breeze isn't usually a major issue, especially after the body temperature has peaked - a bit of wind is generally harmless. However, during the rising phase of body temperature when the hands and feet are cold, exposure to wind can cause the baby to experience further symptoms of cold aversion, which is detrimental to the baby. Therefore, it is still important to take protective measures and avoid wind exposure as much as possible.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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What is roseola infantum?

Roseola infantum is a disease characterized by a fever, followed by a rash after the fever subsides. This disease is caused by an infection with human herpesvirus type 6 or type 7. Typically, it starts with a fever lasting three to five days, which can be moderately high. Generally, a rash appears after the fever subsides, primarily on the torso but it can also spread to the limbs. The rash usually fades within about two days and leaves no scars once it has disappeared.

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Written by Tong Peng
Pediatrics
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What to do with baby's sudden rash?

If a child develops sudden exanthema, parents need not be overly worried, as this condition is a rash-causing disease due to herpes virus infection and it can heal on its own. Often, the child may experience high fever for three to five days, during which physical cooling techniques and oral antipyretics can be used for symptomatic treatment. It is also appropriate to ensure the child drinks plenty of water and eats nutritious food. Once the fever symptoms alleviate, scattered rose-like rashes may appear on the child's face and trunk, which can fade on their own. During this period, symptoms of indigestion or itchy skin may occur, and taking calamine for itch relief and oral probiotics can help alleviate symptoms of digestive upset. (The use of medications should be conducted under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Yan Xin Liang
Pediatrics
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Should children with roseola avoid certain foods?

Roseola in infants is an acute febrile and rash disease, caused by human herpesvirus type 6 or 7. The fever usually lasts 3-5 days, with high fever as the main symptom. During this period, infants may also experience other symptoms such as decreased appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea, which can affect the function of the digestive system, leading to indigestion. It is recommended that the diet be light and easy to digest, avoiding spicy, stimulating, and greasy foods, as these are not conducive to digestion nor beneficial for recovery from the illness.