child fever X ray explained

Overview

When a child has a fever, it means their body is fighting off an illness. Most fevers are caused by infections that get better on their own. Sometimes, a doctor may suggest an X-ray, usually of the chest, to get a clearer picture of the lungs and air passages. An X-ray is a quick, painless test that uses a very small amount of radiation to create images of the inside of the body. It can help the doctor see if an infection such as pneumonia is present.

Most children will have several fevers during childhood. But X-rays are not needed for most fevers. A doctor may order an X-ray only if your child has certain signs, such as a constant cough, fast or difficult breathing, or if the fever does not improve after a few days.

Children of any age can develop a fever. An X-ray may be considered for infants, toddlers, and older children when their symptoms point toward a problem in the chest, such as pneumonia. Your child's doctor will decide if an X-ray is necessary based on a full assessment.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A body temperature that is higher than normal
• Chills or feeling hot to the touch
• Sweating or feeling clammy
• Body aches and headache
• Fatigue or low energy
• Poor appetite

Symptoms in children

• Being more fussy or clingy than usual
• Being unusually sleepy or hard to wake
• Drinking less fluid than usual
• Coughing or breathing faster than normal
• Complaining of ear pain or sore throat
• A fever that lasts for more than a day or two

Symptoms in older adults

• Feeling weak or confused
• Having a dry, moist, or slightly painful cough
• Breathing faster than usual or feeling short of breath
• Fever that comes and goes
• Loss of interest in food or fluids

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections, such as colds, flu, or bronchiolitis
• Bacterial infections, such as pneumonia, ear infections, or throat infections
• Immunisations (vaccines) can cause a mild fever in some children

Risk factors

• Being younger than 2 years old
• Not being immunised against common infectious diseases
• Being in crowded places such as childcare or playgroups
• Having a long-term health condition that affects the lungs or immune system
• Having a fever that stays high for several days

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your child is under 3 months old and has a fever
• If the fever lasts more than 3 days or keeps coming back
• If your child is finding it hard to breathe or is breathing more quickly than normal
• If your child is extremely sleepy, confused, or not responding normally
• If your child shows signs of dehydration, like no wet nappies for many hours

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you are worried or unsure about your child's symptoms
• If the fever does not improve despite giving home comfort
• If your child has a persistent cough or is not eating or drinking well

Diagnosis

The doctor will start by asking about your child's symptoms, temperature, and how they are feeding and behaving. They will then perform a physical examination, which includes listening to the chest with a stethoscope. If the doctor suspects that the lungs may be infected, they may recommend a chest X-ray to check for signs of pneumonia or other conditions.

Tests that may be done

• Physical examination and medical history
• Measuring oxygen levels with a small clip on the finger
• A chest X-ray, if a lung problem is suspected
• A throat or nose swab, if a specific infection like flu or whooping cough is suspected

What to expect at your appointment

If your child needs an X-ray, they will be asked to lie on a table or sit while a machine takes pictures of their chest. The X-ray itself takes only a few seconds. A technician will help position your child to get a clear image. The radiation dose is very small. You may need to hold your child on your lap or help them stay still. The images are reviewed by a radiologist and your doctor will discuss the results with you, usually on the same day.

Treatment

Treatment for a child with a fever depends on the cause. If a chest X-ray shows no serious infection, the fever is likely due to a simple virus, and home care with rest and fluids is enough. If the X-ray shows pneumonia or another bacterial chest infection, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic and advise on how to help your child recover. Most children improve quickly with the right care.

Self-care at home

• Give your child plenty of fluids like water, diluted juice, or a drink suitable for the child's age to stay hydrated
• Encourage rest and gentle sleep
• Dress your child lightly and keep the room at a comfortable temperature to help with temperature control
• Offer familiar, light foods if they feel like eating, but do not force it
• Monitor their temperature and behaviour, and contact a doctor if you are worried

Medical treatments

A doctor may recommend a fever-reducing medicine that is appropriate for your child's age and weight. Always check the correct dose with your doctor or pharmacist before giving any medicine to a child. If a bacterial infection is found, antibiotics may be prescribed, but these do not work for viral infections. Do not give any medicines that are meant for adults to children, and never give combination products without checking with a healthcare professional.

Living with this condition

Caring for a child with a fever can be worrying. Many fevers last for 2 to 3 days and improve with simple care. Keep your child at home while they have a fever, and let them rest as much as they need. Stay in touch with your doctor if symptoms change or if the fever goes on longer than expected.

Lifestyle tips

• Make sure your child drinks regularly and passes urine normally
• Keep up with regular handwashing to avoid spreading infection
• If your child uses a dummy or bottle, clean them regularly
• Try to keep the home environment calm and comfortable

Diet and exercise

Offer small, light meals and lots of fluids during a fever. Do not worry if they lose their appetite for a few days; this is normal. Once the fever goes down and your child feels better, they can gradually return to their normal eating and play routine. Avoid strenuous exercise until they are fully recovered.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

A child may feel scared or upset when they are unwell, and parents often feel anxious. It can help to offer comfort through cuddles, soothing words, and familiar toys. Stay informed by asking the doctor questions. Remember that most children recover from fever and chest infections without lasting problems.

Prevention

Not all fevers can be prevented, because many childhood fevers are caused by viruses that spread easily. However, you can reduce the chance of respiratory infections by supporting good hygiene, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and protecting your child with recommended vaccinations.

Vaccines

Vaccines help prevent some common causes of pneumonia and other serious infections. Following your country's childhood immunisation schedule is one of the best ways to keep your child healthy. Speak with your doctor or nurse to ensure your child is up to date with their vaccines.

Complications

If left untreated

• A bacterial chest infection can become more severe and cause breathing difficulties
• Dehydration can happen if the child does not drink enough fluids
• The fever could be a sign of a more serious infection that needs medical care
• In rare cases, an untreated lung infection can spread and cause a very serious illness

Long-term outlook

The outlook for a child with a fever that needs an X-ray is generally very good. Most children recover fully with fluid, rest, and if needed, appropriate treatment from a doctor. Even those who need antibiotics for pneumonia usually improve within a few days. There are rarely long-term problems. With proper care and monitoring, your child can get back to their usual playful self.

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