The Doctors: Kids Flu Warning Signs
When your kids get the flu, they’re going to have a fever associated with it. But when do you need to be concerned or think about taking them to the hospital. The typical average body temperature is 98.6 degrees.
Pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears said it’s heavily dependent on your child’s behavior. If your child is still active and in good spirits, you may not need to worry even if the mercury breaks triple digits.
When do you need to worry that your child's flu symptoms are becoming more serious?
But if your child is grumpy or lethargic, give them a fever reducer. If their symptoms don’t improve, it’s probably time to call the doctor.
The Drs TV: Kids & 100+ Temperatures
Dr. Jim Sears said once the temperature hits 103, it’s probably time to at least check in with your doctor. He said that a fever isn’t extremely dangerous until it hits 107 degrees. This can cause brain damage, but it’s extremely rare.
Bath Temperature For Fevers
Dr. Jim said reducing your skin temperature while you have a fever, it’s going to have the opposite of the intended effect. Even if a cool bath brings the temperature down, your body will bring it right back up.
If you’re giving a sick child a bath, it should be no colder than tepid. If they are shivering, that’s a sign the body is reheating.
Children’s Fever Medication Dosage
In the past, there were different types of medication and dosages for children at different ages. But the FDA worked with manufacturers to simplify the process.
Dr. Jim Sears said that children’s medication is all the same strength now. There are flow restrictors in place to prevent children from getting a hold of medicine and taking too much.
Is It OK To Swallow Phlegm?
When you’re sick, sometimes you find mucus in your throat. It’s gross, but true. Do you swallow it? Should you swallow it or blow it out?
Dr. Andrew Ordon said that hair cells in your nose naturally push mucus back toward the throat. This is what turns colds into bronchitis. Swallowing phlegm is safe, because it will be safely digested in the stomach.
If you have dripping snot, Dr. Ordon said it’s fine to blow it out.
The Doctors: What Does Thick Mucus Mean?
Dr. Andrew Ordon explained what different thicknesses of Mucus usually indicate.
Mucus & Allergies
Runny Mucus tends to indicate a histamine reaction or allergic condition.
Mucus & Dehydration
Medium Thickness of Mucus tends to indicate Dehydration, which has a harder time moving.
Mucus & Infections
Thick, Discolored Mucus typically has an odor. This is a sign you should see your doctor, because it suggests an infection. Typically it’s accompanied by cough or fever.
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