Fevers can be a very scary thing for parents, particularly for first-time moms and dads. Every child will eventually experience one, no matter how careful you are.
It is important for parents to know what to do when this happens.
So, what is it? We define a fever as a temperature over 100.4 F (38.0 C). Normal body temperature is 98.6 F (37 C). Everyone’s body temperature varies throughout the day and can differ by age, activity level and other factors. Don’t be alarmed if your child’s temperature varies. The magic number for fever is 100.4 F.
When should you not worry about your child’s fever.
- If it is less than 5 days and your child is behaving relatively normally. You should not be concerned with the fever as long as the child is remaining playful and eating and drinking normally.
- If the temperature is not higher than 102.5 F and your child is 3 months to 3 years old. If older, the fever can be up to 103.0 F. You should not be concerned in these situations. These temperatures can be common and not necessarily worrisome.
- Low grade fevers can be normal if your infant or child was recently immunized. These fevers should last normally less than 48 hours.
When should you call a doctor
- If you have an infant younger than 3 months old, the fever may be your infant’s only response to a serious illness.
- If your child’s fever is higher than 104 F.
- If your child’s fever does not come down after giving them medication.
- If your child is not acting like themselves. Your child may be becoming dehydrated when a) your baby is not wetting at least 4 diapers per day or b) your child is not urinating every 8 to 12 hours
- If your child who has recently been immunized keeps one for more than 48 hours
- Always, if you are not comfortable with your child’s temperature or illness, it is best to call the doctor or his nurse practitioner to discuss your concerns.
We at On Call Medical Clinic hope this information was helpful. We are here 7 days a week if you child has a fever and you need some immediate help or someone to talk to about your concerns. Our staff is always ready to help and our facility has all the diagnostic and laboratory equipment necessary to help determine the reason behind the fever. Please call us at 228 818-8155. Also please visit our website at www.oncallclinic.com to learn more about us and all the medical services we offer.