Allergies in Children With Fever

A fever in a child with allergies is most likely the effect of a secondary infection. Allergies never cause a child's body temperature to rise, according to MayoClinic.com. Some symptoms of an allergic reaction can cause mucus build up in different parts of the child's body, leading to an infection. The most common secondary infections found in children with allergies are ear infections, sinus infections and bronchitis. Talk with a pediatrician to determine the cause of the fever.

Allergies with a fever is a sign of a secondary infection. (Image: D. Anschutz/Digital Vision/Getty Images)

Distinctions

Allergies are the child's immune system having sensitivity to a certain substance, such as pollen, according to KidsHealth.org. An allergic reaction can cause symptoms that are similar to the common cold, but are not the result of a virus.

A fever is common in children who develop secondary infections, such as a sinus infection, according to the New York Presbyterian Hospital. An allergic reaction causes the sinuses to swell and become inflamed, trapping mucus, encouraging the growth of bacteria and viruses.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a child with allergies and a fever may overlap. For example, a child with a dust mite allergy may develop severe sinus congestion, which leads to a sinus infection, causing greater nasal congestion. Common allergy symptoms include runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, throat irritation and sinus congestion, according to MayoClinic.com. If a child has a fever with allergies, she will also have a body temperature over 100.4, according to the New York Presbyterian Hospital. The child will also show symptoms, such as body chills, fatigue and nausea.

Allergy Treatment

Treatment begins with seeing the pediatrician. A pediatrician will properly diagnose and recommend the most effective treatment. Prevent allergic reactions by identifying the allergens causing the reaction, avoiding allergens and giving the child a daily antihistamine, according to FamilyDoctor.org. If the child develops a chronic allergic condition, leading to a consistent fever, an allergist may suggest allergy shots.

Fever Treatment

Treat a fever resulting from allergies with a pain reliever/fever reducer, according to the New York Presbyterian Hospital. Do not use aspirin on children under the age of 18 years. Aspirin products may increase the child's risk of developing Reye's Syndrome. Other ways to treat a fever include dressing the child in loose-fitting clothing, giving a warm bath and providing plenty of fluids.

Considerations

The New York Presbyterian Hospital recommends seeing a doctor immediately if a child with allergies shows the following signs: a fever over 105 degrees, constant crying, has a stiff neck, has difficulty waking up, develops purple spots or has difficulty breathing.