Any new parent has concerns when their child develops a fever. Though it is hard not to be anxious, there is no need to panic. Let’s see if we can put some fears to rest and help you to better assess your child’s condition when they do become sick and have an elevated temperature.
What is a fever?
A fever is a normal reaction that the body has when fighting off infection. The fever is not the illness, it is merely a symptom. One thing to note is that fevers tend to run higher in children than they do in adults.
How to take a temperature
Temperatures may be taken in a number of ways and some may require a special thermometer for that method. Some doctors will have varying opinions on what a normal temp is but as a general rule, 99.6 taken orally is considered normal for children. Some ways to check body temperature are as follows:
- under the armpit
- rectally
- in the ear
- orally
- forehead
When Should I Be Concerned About the Fever My Child Has?
- child 3 months or younger with fever
- older child with fever over 104
- fever that lasts longer than 5 days
- fever does not respond to fever reducers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
- child is very uncomfortable
- you are concerned (do not minimize your gut instincts as a parent)
- child is not taking in enough fluids or urinating normally
- child was recently inoculated and fever lasts longer than 72hrs
It is important when calling your child’s physician to report a fever that you not only tell them what the temperature reading is but also how it was taken (what method) because there are variations with some temperature taking methods. This and any other symptoms you have noted should be relayed to the office. This information will better help the healthcare provider make an assessment. Contact Us at On Call Medical Clinic at 228 818-5155 any time we can help. We are always here ready to help.