Hyperthermic syndrome in a baby: signs and causes
In children, especially at a young age, mechanismsthermoregulation is not yet fully formed, the child's body cannot provide itself with adequate heat transfer, which causes the development of hyperthermia. The syndrome also develops when the functioning of the thermoregulation centers located in the hypothalamus is disrupted.
Hyperthermia syndrome is a condition that requires immediate assistance Photo: Getty The most common causes of hyperthermia are:
- bacterial and viral systemic infections,
- overheating of the body,
- intoxication due to poisoning with chemical substances,
- allergic reactions,
- consequences of anesthesia.
Hyperthermic syndrome is characterized by an increase in body temperature to 39 degrees and above, as well as specific symptoms:
- paleness of the skin, while the skin may feel cool to the touch,
- chills,
- increased heart rate,
- shallow, rapid breathing and shortness of breath,
- convulsions,
- confusion,
- fainting,
- a sharp drop in blood pressure.
If untreated, symptoms tend toincrease, the temperature increases to 41-42 degrees, there are failures in the nervous and cardiovascular systems, metabolic processes are disturbed. The condition of hyperthermia is very dangerous and threatens the life of the child, therefore it requires immediate action from parents and doctors.
Helping a child with hyperthermic syndrome
In case of hyperthermic syndrome, help should be provided immediately. The condition of hyperthermia requires urgent hospitalization of the child. But even before the doctors arrive, you should try to reduce the temperature:
- Use antipyretic drugs: paracetamol, ibuprofen, nimesulide.
- Provide plenty of fluids, which should never be hot.
- Use physical methods of cooling the body - wiping with water, weak solutions of vinegar or alcohol, enemas with boiled water at room temperature, applying ice packs.
- If there are signs of vascular spasms - pale skin, high blood pressure - it is necessary to administer antispasmodics.
Under no circumstances should you wrap up a child,apply hot compresses or give hot drinks! Help must be provided before the doctors arrive, constantly monitoring the child's condition. Remember: the health and life of the baby depend on the correctness of your actions! Read more:
