How to reduce fever in children with roseola

Written by Yan Xin Liang

Pediatrics

Updated on September 22, 2024

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In general, infantile roseola initially presents as high fever, which is usually due to viral infection. If the fever subsides after about two days, it is similar to other common viral infections. If the fever is not very high, physical cooling methods can be used, such as sponging with warm water or taking a warm bath. Additionally, fever can be reduced with medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, and it is preferable to avoid intravenous infusions for children with these medications.

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Written by Hu Qi Feng

Pediatrics

48sec

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What are the symptoms of roseola infantum?

Roseola infantum commonly occurs in infants under one year old, caused by human herpesvirus type 6 infection. It typically presents with very high fever, with temperatures often reaching 39-40 degrees Celsius, and throat congestion. However, the patient generally remains in good condition without obvious symptoms of infection or poisoning. Blood tests are generally normal, indicating a viral infection. Symptomatic treatment is given, and about three to five days later, the temperature abruptly drops. One to two days after the temperature returns to normal, a red, rose-like rash appears, primarily on the head, face, and trunk, consistent with the clinical manifestations of rash following the resolution of the fever.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan

Neonatology

1min 16sec

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Can infantile roseola cause vomiting?

Roseola infantum is a common febrile exanthematous skin disease in infants and toddlers, primarily caused by viral infection. Its clinical presentation includes a sudden onset of high fever without obvious triggers in the child, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius. After 3-5 days of fever, the temperature suddenly drops, generally returning to normal within 24 hours. As the temperature decreases or after the fever subsides, a rash starts appearing. During the illness, the child often also experiences swelling of the lymph nodes behind the ears and neck, along with mild irritability, discomfort, and diarrhea. If vomiting occurs, it might indicate additional discomfort such as a gastrointestinal type of flu, potentially accompanied by symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting. If the child exhibits significant vomiting, along with other symptoms such as decreased urine output or diarrhea, it is advised to take the child to the hospital promptly for medical consultation and timely intervention treatment by a doctor.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang

Pediatrics

38sec

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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.

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Written by Yao Li Qin

Pediatrics

1min 12sec

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How to treat roseola infantum?

Pediatric acute rash is a common febrile rash disease seen in infants and young children, mostly occurring between six months to one and a half years old. Its main symptom is a fever for three days followed by a rash as the fever subsides. Before the rash appears, it is not known to be pediatric acute rash. The treatment mainly involves symptomatic management, as it is caused by a viral infection, so some antiviral medications can be taken. Symptomatic treatment primarily involves reducing fever. The principle for fever reduction is that if the body temperature exceeds 38.5 degrees Celsius, give the child fever-reducing medication, such as ibuprofen suspension; below 38.5, physical cooling methods are sufficient. Once the fever has lasted three days and the rash appears confirming pediatric acute rash, all medications can be discontinued. The child should drink plenty of water and rest. Generally, the rash will fully develop within about 24 hours, and then naturally subside over the following three to five days.

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Written by Yan Xin Liang

Pediatrics

33sec

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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.