[7F] With persistent fever and headache post-swimming

Patient Description

A 7-year-old female has been experiencing a fever that started about 4 hours ago and has not gone down despite taking Tylenol and aspirin. The fever has progressively increased from 100.2°F to 101.8°F. Along with the fever, she has a headache located in the middle of her forehead, which feels sharp, throbbing, and dull. Pressing on her temple makes the headache worse. She has not had headaches like this before. Additionally, she is feeling anxious because the fever is not reducing with medication. She also mentioned experiencing nausea, confusion (such as repeatedly trying to unlock a door), and sensitivity to light and sound. She does not have a cough, wheezing, sinus drainage, or stuffiness, and has not experienced neck stiffness. She also mentioned that she can't stay awake easily and that she went swimming in the Pascagoula River two days ago, where she got water up her nose.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you’ve provided, there are a few serious conditions that could be causing your symptoms:

  1. Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM): This is a rare but serious infection caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba, which can be contracted from warm freshwater, such as rivers and lakes. Symptoms can include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and difficulty staying awake. This condition requires immediate medical attention.

  2. Meningitis: This is an inflammation of the membranes surrounding your brain and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and sensitivity to light. Meningitis can be caused by bacterial, viral, or other infections and requires prompt medical treatment.

  3. Severe Infection: A persistent fever that does not respond to medication, along with headache and other symptoms, could indicate a severe infection that needs urgent medical evaluation.

What you can do

Given the seriousness of your symptoms, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Here are the steps you should take:

  1. Go to the Emergency Room: You should visit the nearest emergency room as soon as possible. If you are unable to get there yourself, ask someone to drive you or call an ambulance.

  2. Call 911: If you are alone, feeling very unwell, or your symptoms worsen, call 911 for emergency medical assistance.

  3. Stay Hydrated: While waiting for medical help, try to stay hydrated by drinking small sips of water.

  4. Avoid Self-Medication: Do not take any more medications without consulting a healthcare professional, as this could mask symptoms or interact with other treatments.

Remember, I am not a doctor, and it is essential to get a formal diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare professional. Your symptoms are serious and require immediate medical attention. Please seek help right away.

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5 mo ago

People Also Ask

What is Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) and how is it contracted?

Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) is a rare and often fatal brain infection caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba. It is typically contracted when contaminated water enters the body through the nose, often during activities like swimming in warm freshwater lakes or rivers.

What are the common symptoms of meningitis in children?

Common symptoms of meningitis in children include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, sensitivity to light, and sometimes a stiff neck. These symptoms can develop quickly and require immediate medical attention.

Why might a fever not respond to medications like Tylenol or aspirin?

A fever might not respond to medications like Tylenol or aspirin if it is caused by a severe infection or condition that requires specific medical treatment. Persistent fever despite medication can be a sign of a serious underlying issue that needs urgent evaluation by a healthcare professional.

What should I do if my child is experiencing confusion and sensitivity to light?

If your child is experiencing confusion and sensitivity to light, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms can indicate a serious condition such as meningitis or another severe infection, and prompt evaluation and treatment are crucial.

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