A fever is a rise in body temperature. It's usually a sign of infection. The fever itself is generally harmless and probably helpful. Fevers usually don't need treatment.
The average body temperature is 98.6 F (37 C). But normal body temperature can range between 97 F (36.1 C) and 99 F (37.2 C) or more. Your body temperature can vary depending on how active you are or the time of day. Generally, older people have lower body temperatures than younger people have.
The following thermometer readings generally indicate a fever:
Rectal, ear or temporal artery temperature of 100.4 (38 C) or higher
Oral temperature of 100 F (37.8 C) or higher
Armpit temperature of 99 F (37.2 C) or higher
Should I treat a fever?
When you or your child is sick, the main goal is to relieve discomfort and promote rest. Treating a fever neither shortens nor particularly prolongs the course of an illness.
Treating fever in a child
Children with relatively high fevers may not look or act particularly sick. Treating a fever depends on the degree of discomfort. If your child is uncomfortable or restless, these home care strategies may help:
Encourage your child to drink fluids
Dress your child in lightweight clothing.
Use a light blanket if your child feels chilled, until the chills end.
Don't give aspirin to children or teenagers.
Don't give an infant any type of pain reliever until after you've contacted a doctor and your child has been evaluated.
If your child is 6 months old or older, give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others). Read the label carefully for proper dosing.
When to seek medical advice for a child
If your baby is less than 3 months old and has a fever, it's important to get medical help immediately.
Seek medical care if a child of any age shows any of the following:
Fussiness, or acting abnormally, which doesn't improve even after taking medications to bring down the fever
Signs and symptoms of dehydration, such as no wet diapers over eight to 10 hours, crying without tears, a dry mouth or refusing to drink any fluids
Stiff neck or a headache
Abdominal pain
Trouble breathing
Rash
Joint pain or swelling
Also get medical help if the fever lasts more than five days in a row.
Comments