Does Your Child Have Roseola?

Posted on: 24 May 2017

A cold is not the only common illness your child can experience by the age of two. Roseola is an infection that most children have that usually does not require any medical treatment. However, there are some children who develop complications that require immediate intervention. If your child is showing the symptoms of roseola, here is what you need to know.  

What Are the Symptoms of Roseola? 

Roseola is a viral infection that usually does not cause symptoms. However, if the condition worsens, you will likely notice a rash that starts on the back or abdomen. Your child could even develop a high fever.  

Some children also show signs of a cold, such as a runny nose and coughing. The symptoms can cause your child to feel irritable and might affect his or her appetite. Diarrhea is even a possibility.  

Although medical intervention is usually not needed, you should call your family doctor if your child has a high fever or a rash that does not clear up after a few days. If the symptoms are left untreated, your child could experience a febrile fever.  

There is a special concern for children with weakened immune system. Roseola leaves your child vulnerable to other more serious conditions, including the development of pneumonia. If your child has a weakened immune system, you should contact his or her doctor after discovering the symptoms of roseola.  

What Can You Do? 

In addition to monitoring your child's condition, you need to treat the roseola as any other viral infection. He or she needs to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Dehydration can exacerbate your child's condition and lead to even more complications, which could result in the need for hospitalization. 

If your child develops a fever, he or she also needs plenty of rest. Ideally, your child should take it easy until his or her fever has passed. You can give your child acetaminophen to help with the fever. However, you should avoid aspirin. Aspirin can lead to the development of Reye's syndrome.  

Since there is a risk of a febrile seizure, you need to be aware of the steps to take if he or she experiences one. Remember to stay calm and help your child to the floor. Your child's head should be turned to avoid choking. It is imperative that you contact your family doctor at a place like Rural Health Services Consortium Inc. after the seizure for an examination to ensure there are no other complications. 

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