Key Takeaways
- A fever is often a sign your child's body is fighting an infection and isn't always a cause for alarm. For most healthy children over 3 months old, the fever's severity isn't as important as how the child is acting.
- Monitor your child for other symptoms like rash, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration. Their behavior, appetite, and fluid intake are key indicators of their well-being.
- You can help your child feel more comfortable by ensuring they get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids, and by giving fever-reducing medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen if they seem uncomfortable. Never give aspirin to a child.
- It's time to call the doctor if a baby under 3 months has a rectal temperature of 100.4°F or higher, if a fever lasts more than a few days, or if your child seems very ill, is difficult to wake up, or has other concerning symptoms.
- For expert guidance and high-quality care in Lancaster, PA, the team at Beittel-Becker Pediatric Associates is here to help. Schedule an appointment for the support your child needs.
Understanding and Managing Your Child's Fever
It’s a moment every parent knows well: you touch your child’s forehead and it feels warm, maybe even hot. A wave of worry washes over you. A fever can be frightening, but it's one of the most common childhood symptoms. In most cases, a fever is simply a signal that the body's immune system is doing its job to fight off an infection.
Knowing how to respond is key to navigating this common part of parenthood with confidence. This guide from Beittel-Becker Pediatric Associates will walk you through what a fever means, how to care for your child at home, and when it’s time to seek professional medical advice right here in Lancaster.
What is Considered a Fever in a Child?
A fever is a temporary increase in body temperature, and the exact number can vary depending on how you take the temperature. Generally, the following temperatures are considered a fever:
- Rectal, ear, or forehead temperature: 100.4° F (38° C) or higher
- Oral (mouth) temperature: 100° F (37.8° C) or higher
- Armpit temperature: 99° F (37.2° C) or higher
For infants and young children, a rectal temperature is the most accurate. As your child gets older, oral or forehead methods also become reliable.
Common Causes of Fever in Children
Fevers are the body's natural defense against invaders. When your child has a fever, it's usually because their immune system is battling something. Common causes include:
- Viral Infections: Colds, the flu, and other common viruses are the most frequent culprits.
- Bacterial Infections: These can include ear infections, strep throat, or urinary tract infections.
- Post-Vaccination: It's normal for children to develop a low-grade fever after receiving certain immunizations. This is a sign the body is building immunity.
- Teething: While some parents report low-grade fevers during teething, it typically does not cause a high fever.
How to Care for a Child with a Fever at Home
When your child has a fever, your main goal is to keep them comfortable. The fever itself is helping their body fight, but you can take steps to ease their discomfort.
- Encourage Rest: Rest helps the body recover and fight off illness. Let your child relax and take it easy.
- Offer Plenty of Fluids: Fevers can lead to dehydration. Encourage your child to drink water, diluted juice, or an oral rehydration solution. For infants, continue to offer breast milk or formula.
- Keep Them Comfortable: Dress your child in light clothing and use a light blanket. Overdressing can trap body heat and make the fever worse. A lukewarm sponge bath can also help bring their temperature down and make them feel better.
- Use Fever-Reducing Medication (If Needed): If the fever is making your child fussy or uncomfortable, you can give them acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Be sure to follow the dosage instructions based on your child's weight, not their age. Never give aspirin to a child or teenager, as it has been linked to a rare but serious condition called Reye's syndrome.
| Medication | Age to Start | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Acetaminophen (Tylenol) | Can be given to babies 3 months and older. | Consult Beittel-Becker Pediatric Associates before giving to a baby younger than 3 months. |
| Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) | Safe for babies 6 months and older. | Do not give if your child is dehydrated or vomiting persistently. |
When to Call the Doctor for a Fever
While most fevers resolve on their own, some situations require medical attention. Trust your parental instincts; if you are worried, it's always best to call.
Beittel-Becker Pediatric Associates recommends contacting a pediatrician if your child:
- Is an infant under 3 months old with a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. A fever in a newborn can be a sign of a serious infection.
- Has a fever that lasts more than five days.
- Has a fever that rises above 104°F (40°C) repeatedly.
- Seems very ill, unusually drowsy, or is very fussy.
- Has other concerning symptoms, such as a stiff neck, severe headache, unexplained rash, or difficulty breathing.
- Shows signs of dehydration, such as a dry mouth, crying with few or no tears, or significantly fewer wet diapers.
- Has a seizure (known as a febrile seizure).
Get Expert Care for Your Child in Lancaster
When your child is sick, you want clear answers and compassionate care. This guide provides a starting point, and the team at Beittel-Becker Pediatric Associates is here to offer the professional support your family needs.
For personalized advice or to have your child seen by one of our experienced pediatricians, schedule an appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I take my child's temperature accurately?
For infants under 3 months, a rectal temperature is most accurate. For children between 3 months and 4 years, you can use a rectal, forehead, or armpit temperature. For children over 4, an oral temperature is reliable as long as they can hold the thermometer under their tongue properly.
Should I let my child's fever 'burn out'?
A fever is a sign the body is working to fight an infection. It's not necessary to treat a fever with medication unless your child is uncomfortable, in pain, or not drinking fluids well. The primary goal is your child's comfort, not just the number on the thermometer.
What is a febrile seizure and what should I do?
A febrile seizure is a convulsion in a child caused by a fever. They can be very scary for parents but are usually harmless and don't cause brain damage. If your child has a febrile seizure, place them on their side on a safe surface, do not put anything in their mouth, and call your doctor or 911 for guidance.
Can teething cause a high fever?
Teething may cause a slight increase in a baby's temperature, but it typically does not cause a high fever (over 101°F). If your teething baby has a high fever, it is likely due to an underlying illness, and you should consult your pediatrician.
