Body temperature is an indicator of the normal functioning of the whole organism. An increased temperature in a child is an alarming symptom for all parents. Everyone knows that this is a sign of an inflammatory process. But what if the baby has the opposite, the thermometer shows a low value? Is it worth it to seek medical help or can you cope with such a problem yourself?
Low body temperature in a child or hypothermia often occurs if he was born prematurely. This is due to a poorly formed heat exchange system and, in fact, does not cause any harm to the children's body. Premature babies are placed in a special chamber, where a temperature close to intrauterine is maintained. After discharge, such babies dress warmer and, as a rule, soon the lowered temperature in the baby approaches normal.
In newborns born on time, in the first hours after birth, slight hypothermia can also be observed. This is a normal reaction of the body to a change of environment. A kid, as a rule, can cope with this problem on his own in a few hours (some may take more time). The bodily contact of the mother and the child, applying to the breast helps to warm up and the low temperature in the baby is approaching normal.
A child’s low body temperature can appear even in 2-3 years, often it is accompanied by drowsiness, lethargy and apathy. Often a drop in temperature is observed after illness. If the child is not sick, the cause of hypothermia can be a weakening of the immune system.
Also, a child’s low body temperature can be one of the symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, brain diseases, low hemoglobin. However, based only on this symptom, a conclusion cannot be made. A full examination is necessary.
Cases of a decrease in temperature have been identified after taking certain medications, one of which is the popular anaferon.
In addition, a violation of thermoregulation can be hereditary. If the parents suffered from hypothermia, most likely, the child will also have a lower temperature.
Since the most common cause of hypothermia is weakened immunity, doctors strongly recommend tempering the child. A great way to strengthen the immune system is swimming. Also, the child needs to eat right. Parents should definitely include fresh fruits and vegetables in their daily diet.
Pediatricians recommend taking multivitamins if the child suffers from hypothermia.
At low temperatures, do not over-wrap the baby. It is enough to keep your feet warm, and if a baby is wearing a hat, even at home.
It is important not to supercool and overheat children - this can lead to a violation of thermoregulation and, as a result, a decreased body temperature may appear . Do not walk outside if the child has a low body temperature .
Sometimes the temperature drops during and after sleep - this is normal and you do not need to worry in such cases. In no case can you do all kinds of rubbing and self-medicate. A baby can have a low temperature for several days, and then return to normal without any harm to health.
However, if hypothermia lasts more than three or four days, you should contact a pediatrician and visit specialists such as an immunologist and an endocrinologist. A qualitative examination will help to identify the most likely causes of a violation of the thermoregulation of the body, and a specialist will give tips and advice on caring for a child suffering from hypothermia.