Parents often worry when their child has a fever. A fever is a common symptom of illness and the body’s natural response to infection. Understanding what constitutes a fever and how to respond is important.
Understanding Fever in Children
A child’s normal body temperature fluctuates throughout the day, often being lower in the morning and slightly higher in the evening. For children, a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher is considered a fever. A temperature of 100.3°F (37.9°C) is categorized as a low-grade fever.
Temperature readings vary based on the method of measurement. Rectal temperatures are considered the most accurate, especially for infants and young children, and read slightly higher than oral or armpit temperatures. Oral temperatures of 100°F (37.8°C) or higher, and armpit temperatures of 99°F (37.2°C) or higher, indicate a fever. Ear and forehead thermometers, while convenient, may offer less accurate measurements compared to rectal or oral methods.
A fever is not an illness itself, but a sign that the body’s immune system is actively working to combat an infection. The elevated temperature helps stimulate immune responses and can make it more challenging for germs to multiply. Most fevers in children are caused by viral infections, and they resolve within a few days.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
While many fevers can be managed at home, certain situations warrant immediate medical attention. For infants younger than 3 months, any rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher requires an immediate call to a doctor or a visit to the emergency room. This is because fevers in very young infants can be a sign of a serious infection that progresses quickly.
Regardless of the temperature, parents should seek medical evaluation if the child exhibits concerning accompanying symptoms. These include difficulty breathing, a stiff neck, a non-fading rash, lethargy, persistent vomiting or diarrhea, or signs of dehydration like decreased urination or lack of tears. Changes in the child’s behavior, such as being unusually irritable, confused, or difficult to wake, are also important indicators. A fever lasting more than 24-72 hours, depending on the child’s age and other symptoms, should prompt a call to the doctor.
Supporting a Child with Fever at Home
When a child has a fever and does not require immediate medical attention, the focus shifts to providing comfort and monitoring. Ensuring the child stays well-hydrated is important, as fevers can lead to fluid loss through sweating. Offering plenty of fluids like water, clear broths, or electrolyte solutions is beneficial.
Comfort Measures
Dressing the child in light, comfortable clothing and keeping the room at a moderate temperature can help them feel more at ease. Avoid excessive bundling, which can trap heat and increase discomfort.
Fever-Reducing Medications
Fever-reducing medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be given to alleviate discomfort, but they are not always necessary if the child is otherwise active and drinking normally. Dosage should always be based on the child’s weight, and it is important to follow package instructions carefully. Ibuprofen is approved for children 6 months and older, while acetaminophen can be given to children over 2 months.
Practices to Avoid
Aspirin should never be given to children or teenagers with a fever due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome, a serious condition affecting the brain and liver. Practices like cold baths or using rubbing alcohol are not recommended, as they can cause shivering and discomfort.