1
Food stagnation transforming to heat
- Key distinguishing signs
- Mild evening heat with bloating, foul breath, restless sleep and foul stool, thick coat
- Treatment principle
- Digest stagnation and clear mild heat
Pediatricxiǎo ér dī rè
Low-grade fever in children
Also called:mild fever childlow fever toddler
From the TCM perspective: Low-grade fever: latent heat or qi/yin deficiency
Overview
A persistent or recurrent low-grade fever (about 37.5-38 C) in a well child is not managed like acute fever. TCM distinguishes food stagnation transforming to heat (after overeating), summer damp-heat, post-illness yin deficiency and qi deficiency. Accurate measurement and the child's general condition matter more than the number.
☯Common patterns (syndrome differentiation)
2
Summer damp-heat
- Key distinguishing signs
- Low fever with lethargy and poor appetite in hot humid weather, heaviness and sweat, greasy coat
- Treatment principle
- Clear summer heat, transform dampness and boost qi
3
Post-illness yin deficiency
- Key distinguishing signs
- Mild evening heat with rosy cheeks, night sweat and dry mouth, red tongue with little coat
- Treatment principle
- Nourish yin and clear latent heat
4
Qi-deficiency fever
- Key distinguishing signs
- Fever fluctuating with exertion, fatigue, weak voice, spontaneous sweat and poor appetite, pale tongue
- Treatment principle
- Tonify and upraise qi
Daily self-care
- Measure accurately (axillary/rectal by age) and log times; do not rely on touching the forehead.
- Hydrate, use light clothing, ventilation and rest; do not bundle or use alcohol/ice rubs.
- See a doctor if it lasts more than a few days or recurs with weight loss or night sweat.
When to seek medical help
The following warning signs require prompt medical evaluation — do not rely on self-treatment:
- Fever ≥38 C in an infant under 3 months.
- Lethargic child not drinking, fast/labored breathing, seizure, non-blanching rash or severe dehydration.
- Fever with stiff neck, repeated vomiting, painful urination or persistent abdominal pain.
Medical disclaimer: Educational content about traditional Chinese medicine for information only; it is not a diagnosis or treatment and does not replace a qualified clinician. If symptoms worsen or warning signs appear, seek medical care.