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What Causes High Fever, Stuffed Nose And Cough?
Question: My 5 year old has a temp of 100.9, stuffed nose and horsey cough has been eating a drinking throughout the day but mostly wants to rest. Is this something I should take him to the doctor for an antibiotic?
Brief Answer:
No panic, but important to see a doctor
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for the query,
A temperature of 100.9, though sign of an infection, is no concern to cause panic. The stuffy nose and cough associated to a fever is an indication of an infection. It is true that the commonest of these infections are usually of viral origin. This can explain exactly why the child is tired. Raised temperature usually leads to increased fluid loss through excess sweating, and explains why child wants to drink much, because this usually creates a state of relative mild to moderate dehydration.
Bacterial infection could cause similar infections, or even if viral, and poorly managed, bacteria can come and infect on such terrains. The fever in the case of bacterial infections is generally higher and the child looks more sick.
I strongly think in your case, you need not panic, but the child needs to be seen by a doctor. During the physical examination, your doctor shall look for signs peculiar to bacterial infection, carry out a complete blood count and C reactive protein measures. Raised C reactive protein levels and high neutrophil levels, special white blood counts will be very suggestive of a bacterial infection, and thus justify the use of antibiotics. A chest X ray could be asked depending on clinical findings
In case no signs of infection by bacteria are seen, clearing the nasal passages, prescription of cough syrups and reducing the fever might be sufficient. Since the child is tired and drinks a lot, evaluation for signs of dehydration, and intensity, in order to set up an appropriate rehydration plan if needed deserves the examination from a doctor.
Your description brings out nothing alarming, but you need to see a Doctor. Kind regards
Dr Bain
No panic, but important to see a doctor
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for the query,
A temperature of 100.9, though sign of an infection, is no concern to cause panic. The stuffy nose and cough associated to a fever is an indication of an infection. It is true that the commonest of these infections are usually of viral origin. This can explain exactly why the child is tired. Raised temperature usually leads to increased fluid loss through excess sweating, and explains why child wants to drink much, because this usually creates a state of relative mild to moderate dehydration.
Bacterial infection could cause similar infections, or even if viral, and poorly managed, bacteria can come and infect on such terrains. The fever in the case of bacterial infections is generally higher and the child looks more sick.
I strongly think in your case, you need not panic, but the child needs to be seen by a doctor. During the physical examination, your doctor shall look for signs peculiar to bacterial infection, carry out a complete blood count and C reactive protein measures. Raised C reactive protein levels and high neutrophil levels, special white blood counts will be very suggestive of a bacterial infection, and thus justify the use of antibiotics. A chest X ray could be asked depending on clinical findings
In case no signs of infection by bacteria are seen, clearing the nasal passages, prescription of cough syrups and reducing the fever might be sufficient. Since the child is tired and drinks a lot, evaluation for signs of dehydration, and intensity, in order to set up an appropriate rehydration plan if needed deserves the examination from a doctor.
Your description brings out nothing alarming, but you need to see a Doctor. Kind regards
Dr Bain
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
We are moving across the country in 2 days. Do you ferl that he will need a script for this or over the counter meds .
Brief Answer:
Lower fever (acetaminophen) and wash nostrils, sal
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for the query,
I think reducing the child s fever with drugs like Acetaminophen, of course over the counter and doing some nasal lavage with normal saline, to permit him breathe could be of great help. I think he can support the two days as you watch carefully. Seeing his doctor before moving is a good idea as I did not get a chance to examine him. No serious worries as of now.
Kind regards
Dr Bain
Lower fever (acetaminophen) and wash nostrils, sal
Detailed Answer:
Hi and thanks for the query,
I think reducing the child s fever with drugs like Acetaminophen, of course over the counter and doing some nasal lavage with normal saline, to permit him breathe could be of great help. I think he can support the two days as you watch carefully. Seeing his doctor before moving is a good idea as I did not get a chance to examine him. No serious worries as of now.
Kind regards
Dr Bain
Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Vaishalee Punj
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