Fever is a symptom in reaction to an intruder considered a threat to the body. Usually, fever is not life-threatening, but prolonged fevers can cause damage to various body parts.
For children less than 6 months, you can set the threshold at 100.4 F. The moment the fever crosses the threshold, you need to see a doctor. Because a newborn’s immunity is non-existent. They need as much care as possible. If your child is older than 6 months, set the threshold at 103 F. Kids older than 6 months can produce antibodies. It is important to allow the kid’s body to develop natural immunity. But if the child has other symptoms like a cold and cough, see a pediatrician in Cumming, GA immediately.
How to Take the Temperature of Your Child
Taking the child’s temperature is an important parenting skill.
- Up to 3 months – Take temperature rectally for infants in this age group. Smaller and wetter ear canals may lead to incorrect readings therefore tympanic (ear) thermometers aren’t recommended.
- 3 months to 4 years – While rectal temperature is still the most accurate way, you can also take temperatures in the armpit at this age.
- 4 years and above – Children should be able to hold a digital thermometer under the tongue steadily enough to ensure an accurate reading.
What to do for High Fever in Children
A bacterial infection can cause fevers in Kids. However, fever is not generally an indication of how serious the infection is. The body may sometimes even react to a harmless allergen by raising the temperature. Understanding the pattern of the fevers is vital to identifying the underlying condition causing the fever.
Once you know that your child has a fever, you should stay near your child. Your presence can be reassuring to the child. It also helps with the psychological aspect of fever control in kids.
Regular and diligent sponging can bring the temperature down quickly. Make sure to use lukewarm water as cold water will make matters worse. If this does not help bring the fever down, then consult a pediatrician.
Dehydration is also a companion of fever in addition to vomiting and diarrhea. Give adequate fluids to keep your child hydrated. It also helps fight the infection. If the symptoms last more than 24 hours, certain tests or antibiotics may be prescribed by the pediatrician in Cumming, GA, which should be administered as advised.
Symptoms that children might exhibit with a fever
Infants may be abnormally quiet, irritable, or fussy. They will refuse food or not feed properly. Crying, rapid breathing, and changed sleeping habits are also symptoms of fever. Older children may complain of body aches, headaches, and poor appetite amongst others.
Conclusion:
Fever in children is a complicated issue that can take time to get a hang of, especially in the early days. But becomes easier to manage with time and experience. As a parent, it is important to be patient with yourself and learn to deal with fever and its related symptoms.
