Seeing your child run a fever can be concerning as a parent or caregiver. It is essential to understand what a fever is, what causes it, and when to seek medical attention. In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about child fever, including symptoms, causes, treatment options, and when to go to the hospital for child fever.
Fever is the body’s natural response to fight off infections or illnesses. In children, it is characterized by a body temperature higher than usual. The average body temperature for children varies between 97.7°F to 99.5°F. Children are considered to have a fever once their temperature exceeds average temperatures.
Symptoms of fever in children can vary depending on the underlying cause. Common signs of fever in children include:
Fever can also cause other symptoms, such as cough, congestion, sore throat, and rash.
Fever can be brought on by many different things in children. The following are some typical reasons for fever in kids:
Viruses are a common cause of fever in children, and symptoms can include cold, cough, sore throat, or flu-like symptoms.
Fever can be brought on by bacterial diseases such as strep throat, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections.
Some vaccines can cause a fever as a side effect. Learn more about child vaccination through our dedicated blog entitled “Know the Risks: What Happens if You Don’t Get Your Child Vaccinated.”
Some babies can develop a low-grade fever when they are teething. Understand the effects of teething in babies through our dedicated blog.
Exposure to extreme heat or sunstroke can cause a fever.
Fever and vomiting are common symptoms that can occur together in children. Various factors, including infections, food poisoning, motion sickness, or overeating, can cause vomiting.
It’s crucial to monitor your child’s symptoms and give them drinks to avoid dehydration if they have a fever and are throwing up. You can give them small amounts of water, clear broth, or oral rehydration. You should seek medical attention if your child cannot keep fluids down or their symptoms worsen.
In most cases, fever in children is not a cause for concern and can be treated at home. However, there are certain situations where you should take your child to the emergency room as soon as possible to see a doctor, including:
In addition to taking your child to the emergency room, there are certain situations where you should call your pediatrician for advice or schedule an appointment, including:
A fever of 105°F (40.6°C) is considered high and can cause concern. High fevers can be a sign of a severe infection or illness, and it’s essential to seek medical attention if your child’s fever reaches this level.
If your kid has had a fever for more than four days, it’s critical to monitor their symptoms and consider getting them medical help. A fever that persists for more than four days can be a sign of a more severe infection or illness, and it’s crucial to determine the underlying cause.
Most fevers in children can be treated at home with rest and fluids. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are over-the-counter drugs that can help lower fever and ease discomfort. Before administering any medicine, check with your child’s pediatrician and follow the dose recommendations.
It’s important to note that aspirin should never be given to children with fever, as it can increase the risk of a serious condition called Reye’s Syndrome.
There are several steps you can take to help prevent fever in children, including:
Help your children wash their hands regularly and to cover their mouths when they sneeze or cough.
Keeping your child up-to-date on their vaccinations can help prevent many illnesses that can cause fever. Understand myths and truths through our dedicated blog.
Your child’s immune system may be strengthened, and the chance of illness can decrease with a good diet, regular exercise, and enough sleep.
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Fever in children is a common condition that various factors can cause. Monitoring your child’s symptoms and seeking medical assistance is crucial, even though most fevers are not severe and may be handled at home. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for fever in children, you can help keep your child healthy and comfortable.
If you’re concerned about your child’s fever and need expert guidance, visit the Children’s Medical Center of Fresno. Our experienced pediatricians specialize in addressing child fever symptoms, providing appropriate treatment, and advising when to seek medical attention. We are here to help you with all your pediatric healthcare needs, including after-hour care. Our after-hour pediatric clinic in Fresno is conveniently available to provide the care your child deserves, even outside regular office hours. Contact us at (559) 455-1500 to schedule an appointment and ensure your child’s well-being. For added convenience, we also offer telemedicine services and weekend appointments. Visit our website at CMCFresno to learn more about our dedicated team and book an appointment today.
