Question
On the evening of January 7, 2012, between 6 and 7 PM, the child started to have a fever. After undergoing blood tests at the hospital, the doctor said it was a viral infection and prescribed intravenous fluids. The test results showed a viral infection. After receiving the intravenous fluids, the symptoms did not improve. The next day, the child went back to the hospital for more intravenous fluids (usually, when receiving fever-reducing injections, the child would sweat, but this time, there was no sweating after both injections), and the body temperature dropped temporarily. However, once back home, the fever started again with an increasingly severe trend. Please provide some useful suggestions.
Answer
It is best to opt for traditional Chinese medicine treatment to clear heat and detoxify using medications such as pediatric Shuanghuanglian, which are designed for clear heat and detoxify. Avoid administering intravenous fluids as they can harm the child’s veins and may leave residues in their bloodstream. Fever-reducing medications can only temporarily alleviate the condition and provide some relief from fever but do not address the root problem. If the child’s fever is not very high (below 38.5 degrees Celsius, or below 38 degrees Celsius for those with a history of fever-related seizures), physical cooling methods can be used. Use water around 40 degrees Celsius to wipe the child’s palms, soles, armpits, and groin area, or cover their head with a towel. During this period, continue taking the traditional Chinese medicine and ensure the child drinks plenty of water.