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- All kids get a fever from time to time. Usually, a fever isn’t dangerous or bad for kids. It can even be a good thing because it can help the immune system fight infection. Still, parents might be unsure about how to handle a fever at home and when to call the doctor.
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Are childhood fevers serious?
What happens if a child has a fever?
Can a child have a fever if he has a virus?
Apr 30, 2024 · In a child over 4 months, fevers of up to 104 F shouldn’t cause alarm. A mild fever that lasts up to five days is OK for most kids. A fever that doesn’t affect your child too much
- The higher the temperature, the more serious the illness. Truth: A high temperature may indicate a serious illness in teens and adults, but not always in children 12 and under.
- For true accuracy, only a rectal temperature will do. Truth: Taking a rectal temperature isn’t always necessary. Rectal temperatures are most accurate but don’t fret about getting one in older children, advises Dr. Klein.
- Ear and forehead thermometers are as accurate as digital thermometers. Truth: Tympanic (ear) and temporal (forehead) thermometers aren’t as reliable as digital multiuse thermometers.
- The only normal temperature is 98.6°F. Truth: 100°F may not be a fever. The well-known 98.6°, is a normal temperature taken by mouth. An underarm temperature may be about one degree lower.
A child’s fever is at 105°F (40.5°C) and doesn’t decrease 1-2 degrees after taking fever-reducing medicine. A child’s fever is above 105°F (40.5°C). Children should also be taken to the emergency department if they have a fever of any temperature and are also experiencing: Non-stop crying ; A bulging or sunken in soft spot (in infants)
Dr. Acker: Typically, a fever due to a run-of-the-mill virus can last from 24 hours to three to four days. Sometimes, fevers can last longer — even over a week — and it’s not necessarily a reason to be alarmed, as long as the child is not struggling with other symptoms, such as dehydration, shortness of breath, or severe lethargy or irritability.
- Julia Morrill
Children with fevers may become more uncomfortable as the temperature rises. In addition to a body temperature greater than 100.4°F (38°C), symptoms may include: Your child may not be as active or talkative as usual. He or she may seem fussier, less hungry, and thirstier. Your child may feel warm or hot.
Children's Health. When to Worry About a Childs Fever. When to Worry About a Child's Fever. Here’s how to tell when fevers are a bad sign. Nearly every parent has felt their child’s hot, feverish forehead and gotten worried. Is it serious? How high is too high? Should my child go to the doctor?
Jul 28, 2023 · A fever in children is a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. Body temperature rises in response to infections, such as the flu or a cold. A high temperature, or fever, can happen for many...
