Fever is one of the most common signs of illness in childhood. It is also the one that usually causes the most concern among parents. Knowing what to expect, and how to respond properly, can help alleviate some of that anxiety. Here are a few important facts that may help when you are dealing with a fever:
- Fever is only a symptom and generally will not harm your child.
- Fever itself will not cause brain damage.
- By the time you know that your child is sick, the brain knows and has relaxed, making seizures unlikely.
- Fever will not keep rising indefinitely.
- A rising temperature does not mean that your child is getting sicker.
- The height of the fever does not indicate how sick your child is.
- IMPORTANT NOTE: a fever of 106 degrees or higher IS a serious problem that requires immediate medical attention.
The most important thing is to look at your child, not at the thermometer. If your child is alert, interacting with you, able to drink (even a diminished amount), and not acting sick (limp and lethargic) they are probably okay.
When children have fevers and are sick, they do not feel well. Mild listlessness, irritability and “not acting like themselves” are all normal symptoms. However, it is important that your child keep up his or her fluid intake while running a fever.
You may treat your child with acetaminophen or ibuprofen as appropriate, but this is mainly for their comfort. Do not be concerned if they will not take it! These medications are available in liquid, chewable, capsule, or suppository forms. You should expect a 1-2 degree reduction in their temperature.
There are a few signs that can be worrisome in a child that may accompany a fever. Please contact our office if you observe any of these symptoms:
- Persistent vomiting
- A rash that looks like tiny red freckles
- Extreme listlessness (like a wet noodle!)
- Persistent, copious diarrhea
- Unusual or severe pain
- Fever lasting over 48 hours
- Fever over 100.4 degrees in an infant under 2 months