When to worry about Child’s fever

Many doctors see anxious parents bringing in feverish children for care. In fevers, prompt treatment can be very important. But in most fevers, it is not dangerous, and it can even be considered useful because it naturally fights infections.

Causes of Fever

A fever is a healthy sign that the body is doing well to fight and control illness. Through a chemical reaction, your body raises its core temperature in an attempt to stop bad viruses and bacteria from growing. Since viruses and bacteria can only reproduce normally when conditions are more favorable, this is the most effective way to eliminate them.

Viruses are the most common cause of fever in children. Young children may have 7 to 10 febrile viral illnesses each year, especially if they are in daycare or school, where the virus is easily spread among children. The second most common source of infection is bacteria. Both types of infection can cause fever.

Fever can be a problem in very young children, especially those under 3 months of age. This is because your immune system is still developing and a fever can put you at risk for a serious infection. For preschool and school-age children, pediatricians are less concerned unless the fever lasts for more than 4 days. Watch out for symptoms such as extreme lethargy/irritability, severe sore throat, increased coughing, and pain when urinating. 

The correct way to take a temperature

Knowing how to take a temperature correctly is one of the most important parenting skills. In infants and children younger than 1 year of age, it is important to feel comfortable taking a rectal temperature.

Preheat a digital thermometer with Vaseline to get the proper temperature. Next, insert the silver thermometer into your baby's rectum about an inch apart. Hold gently for 1 minute, then remove and read the temperature.

For children, 1 year and older, the best and most accurate way to take a temperature is with an oral digital thermometer or an ear drum (ear) thermometer. Ear thermometers work well for toddlers and are generally accurate, but can be turned off for children with a lot of earwax.

When to see a doctor

In babies younger than 2 months, a fever is any temperature above 100.4 degrees (all temperatures in this article are in Fahrenheit). It's also a concern if your newborn's temperature is below 96 degrees F. For an abnormal temperature in your newborn, call your doctor or go to a pediatric urgent care or emergency room; your newborn should be seen right away.

In infants and children older than 3 months, a fever is a temperature greater than 101.5 degrees F. Call your doctor if your child's temperature reaches 102.2 degrees F or higher.

Most fevers go away within 2 days. If the fever persists for more than 4 days, call your doctor. Rash with symptoms such as fever, vomiting or diarrhea, severe abdominal pain, headache, stiff neck, sore throat, shortness of breath, pain with urination, localized pain such as swollen joints, and purulent rash/dark skin in these cases, call your doctor immediately. We fell when you pushed it. If your child is weak or refuses to drink, also consult a doctor.