Fever is one of the most common reasons parents seek medical help for their children. In most cases, it is linked to a viral infection and settles with adequate fluids, rest and care. However, fever can sometimes signal a more serious infection that may lead to sepsis.
In an interaction with HT Lifestyle, paediatrician Dr Amit Vij explained that sepsis is the body’s extreme immune response to an infection. It can affect vital organ function and, in children, can worsen quickly.
“Fever on its own does not mean that a child has sepsis. What matters is whether the child is showing other signs of being seriously unwell,” he stated, before sharing a list of warning signs that parents will do well to look out for. A child may sleep more than usual when they have a fever. However, if the child is extremely drowsy, confused, not responding normally or is difficult to wake, medical attention is needed, highlighted the paediatrician. In the words of Dr Vij, “A sick child may eat less for a short period, but refusing fluids altogether can be concerning. In infants, a noticeable reduction in breastfeeding or feeding should also be taken seriously. Repeated vomiting can further increase the risk of dehydration. Dr Vij suggested that parents keep an eye on how often their child is passing urine. “Pale, greyish, bluish or mottled skin, particularly when the child also appears very unwell, requires urgent medical attention. Cold hands and feet can sometimes occur during a fever. However, Dr Vij pointed out that if they are accompanied by extreme weakness, unusual sleepiness or other signs that the child’s condition is worsening, parents should seek medical help rather than simply waiting for the fever to come down. “If such a rash appears along with fever and the child looks very unwell, the child should be taken for urgent medical evaluation. It is important for parents to look at the child’s overall condition rather than focusing only on the temperature. A child with a relatively mild fever can still be seriously ill, while a high fever does not necessarily mean that the child has sepsis. Dr Vij further noted that sepsis cannot be diagnosed based on these symptoms alone. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Dr Amit Vij is a senior consultant in the department of paediatrics at ShardaCare – Healthcity, with over 15 years of clinical experience.
“If a child is breathing much faster than usual, struggling to breathe, grunting or showing signs of the chest pulling in while breathing, it should not be ignored,” noted Dr Vij, explaining that these symptoms may occur when an infection affects the lungs or when the body is under significant stress. “Going for an unusually long period without urinating can be a sign of dehydration or poor circulation and requires medical evaluation,” he stated. “A change in the child’s normal skin colour can be an important warning sign,” shared the paediatrician. “A rash that does not become lighter when pressed can sometimes be associated with serious infections,” noted the paediatrician. “Doctors assess the child’s breathing, circulation, hydration, alertness and other clinical signs before deciding whether further tests or treatment are needed,” he stated. The most important thing is to seek medical help when a child with a fever seems significantly different from their usual self, according to the paediatrician.
