Child headache and fever can be an onset of many ailments, the most common being respiratory infections like common cold and pneumonia.
People suffering from headache may also show thermometer readings that exceeds beyond 100.4º Fahrenheit. This is a warning sign of fever, that may occur due to a number of reasons. Headache and fever symptoms can literally throw anybody’s life out of gear. In such cases, the person has no option, but to discontinue his normal routine and take rest.
Causes
Common Cold
Common cold in children can certainly trigger a rise in body temperature and is often accompanied by headache. Fever caused by common cold generally doesn’t remain for more than 2 days. Besides, in most cases, the fever is not high and many times it does not require any medical attention. Stuffy nose and frequent bouts of sneezing are the symptoms of common cold. Common cold is generally not a cause for concern and the symptoms significantly reduce within a week. However, the doctor may prescribe medications such as acetaminophen to older children (above 13 years of age) to relieve common cold.
Meningitis
Children affected with meningitis often complain about headache and fever. The spinal cord and the brain are surrounded by a tissue, that acts as a protective covering against external forces. When this tissue, also referred to as meninges, gets swollen, the condition is referred to as meningitis. This condition advances to the final stage at a rapid pace. Hence, ignoring treatment can cause irreparable brain damage and even death. It is found that children within 2-3 years of age are more susceptible to meningitis. Along with fever, the affected child may appear lethargic and experience neck pain.
Dengue Fever
The dengue virus that is more common in people living in tropical countries such as Thailand, can also cause abnormally high body temperature and severe headache. Dengue fever occurs when a specific type of mosquito carrying the virus, bites a human. Symptoms such as joint pain and lower back pain may occur 5-7 days after coming in contact with the virus.
Allergic Reaction
Child headache and fever can also stem from an allergic reaction of a prescription medicine or after immunization. The child may also feel nauseated and tired. However, these health issues indicate a minor or moderate allergic reaction that usually lasts for a few days. Besides fever and headache, if the child is experiencing difficulty breathing, it is a sign of a severe allergic reaction and one should immediately seek medical advice.
Influenza
Also known as seasonal flu, it can cause muscle pain and cough. In this condition, the body temperature rises gradually and may reach up to 106º Fahrenheit. Influenza is a respiratory infection that causes sore throat and congestion in the nose. Even respiratory infections like pneumonia can produce aforementioned symptoms and cause trouble breathing.
In case, fever does not subside within hours or is recurring even after taking painkillers like acetaminophen, it is time to contact the doctor right away. Although it may be causes by a seasonal virus, one should get it confirmed by taking your child to a pediatric.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
