how long does viral fever last in kids - #19130
I am a bit worried about my little one. He had a fever for the last few days and we ended up at the pediatrician, who said it might be viral. That was almost 3 days ago now, and he still feels warm—definitely not his usual self! The doc didn't give me a straight answer about how long does viral fever last in kids, but I can't help but wonder if I should be seeing some improvement by now. I mean, he's been really irritable, won't eat, and just keeps curling up on the sofa. I read online that how long does viral fever last in kids can really vary, but can someone share their experiences? I'm also concerned because it seemed to come out of nowhere while he was playing. I thought maybe he was just tired, but then boom! Fever! Was it the weather changing or something? Should I expect this to drag on longer, or will he bounce back? I really don't want to jump to conclusions, but how long does viral fever last in kids—like, should I be preparing for a whole week more of this? I just want to help him feel better, any advice or personal stories would be great!!!
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Doctors' responses
Viral fever in children typically lasts around 3 to 5 days, but there’s some wiggle room depending on the specific virus causing the infection and the child’s immune response. It’s understandable to be concerned since kids can be quite different in how they deal with illness, and this uncertainty can be tough on parents. If your child is still running a significant fever after 3 days, some improvement is usually on the horizon soon, but keep an eye on other symptoms too. While some viruses can indeed cause fevers that stretch beyond this usual period, it’s also important to watch out for red flags like dehydration, breathing difficulties, a rash, or persistent lethargy. If any of these appear or if you’re seeing no improvement at all by day 5, it might be wise to loop back with your pediatrician. It’s also important your child gets plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and rest. Encourage small sips of water or an oral rehydration solution like Pedialyte if he’s not eating much. Light, comforting foods are also good once he’s ready. Be attentive to his comfort with a warm but not overheated environment. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage the fever and any associated discomfort, but make sure you’re dosing according to his weight and have your doctor’s okay. Since fever can come fast in children, especially with viral infections, it’s not out of the ordinary for it to seem sudden as you described. Keep an open line with your pediatrician if anything changes or if there’s no sign of recovery, as they can provide specific advice tailored to your child’s situation.
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