Low Body Temperature In A Baby: Causes, Symptoms, And What To Do
Low body temperature in a healthy newborn is usually not a problem, but extremely low temperatures can be a serious health concern. Babies have a harder time controlling their body temperature, so it's important to identify the cause of low temperature as soon as possible.
What Low Temperature Indicates?
A low temperature in a healthy newborn may not indicate a problem, but extremely low temperatures may be a concern. Babies and newborns have a harder time controlling their body temperature, making it important to identify the source of low temperature as soon as possible.
Temperatures That Are Ideal For Babies
The following are examples of normal temperature readings-
- 97.9 to 100.4°F in the rectal area
- 95.9 to 99.5°F in the mouth
- 97.8°F to 99.5°F in the armpit
- 96.4°F to 100.4°F in the ear
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends taking a baby's temperature every hour if he or she is extremely ill. Taking a baby's temperature two to four times a day can assist in recognizing abnormal temperature changes.
What are the risk factors of Baby's Low Temperature?
There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of a baby having a low body temperature, including:
- Prematurity increases the risk of hypothermia in babies due to their underdeveloped bodies.
- Low birth weight (less than 5.5 pounds) makes it harder for babies to regulate their body temperature.
- Inadequate clothing or blankets can lead to hypothermia in babies.
- Exposure to a cold environment increases the risk of hypothermia in babies.
- Illnesses or infections like sepsis or pneumonia can cause a drop in a baby's body temperature.
What are the Causes of Baby's Low Temperature?
After spending a prolonged time in the water, a baby's temperature may drop.
A low temperature in a baby can be caused by:
- long periods of immersion in water
- Cold weather or not dressing the baby warmly enough
- the weather is cold
Low-Temperature Symptoms in Babies
- Lips or fingers turning blue, feeling very cold, or appearing lethargic or ill
- Newborns, especially those delivered prematurely or with low birth weight, are more prone to poor body temperatures
Treatment For Baby Low Body Temperature
If your baby has a low body temperature, the treatment will depend on the underlying cause. Here are some general guidelines:
Warmth:
If your baby's body temperature is low due to exposure to cold temperatures, move the baby to a warm environment immediately. Wrap the baby in warm blankets, dress them in warm clothing, and place a hat on their head to help retain heat.
Feeding:
If the baby's body temperature is low due to inadequate feeding, ensure that the baby is getting enough milk or formula. Newborns may need to be fed every two to three hours, even overnight, to maintain their body temperature.
If your baby's low body temperature is due to an underlying medical condition, seek medical attention immediately. The healthcare provider may recommend further tests and treatment to address the underlying cause.
This is a method of skin-to-skin contact between the mother and the baby, which can help regulate the baby's body temperature. The baby is placed on the mother's bare chest, and the mother's body heat can help warm the baby.
When Should You See a doctor?
Monitor your baby's temperature and other symptoms and behaviors during sickness to determine whether you should contact your doctor or not.
If you notice any of the following symptoms in your child, you should contact his or her doctor or seek medical help-
- If your baby is under the age of three months, he or she develops a fever.
- 3- to 6-month-old has a rectal temperature - 102°F (38.9°C) or higher
- 6- to 24-month-old has a fever - more than 102°F (38.9°C) for more than a day or two with no other symptoms
- 6- to 24-month-old has a fever - more than 102°F (38.9°C) for more than a day or two with no other symptoms
- They have a fever that lasts more than 24 hours or occurs on a regular basis, and they're irritable (extremely fussy) or lethargic as a result (weak or more sleepy than usual)
- If your child's temperature does not drop within an hour or so after taking the prescribed prescription, they may develop other symptoms such as a rash, difficulty feeding, or vomiting, indicating that they are dehydrated (not producing tears, spit, or the usual amount of wet diapers)
Conclusion
Treatment for a low body temperature in a baby varies depending on the child's age and the symptoms associated with the fever. It's important to note that low body temperature in a baby can be a serious condition and requires prompt medical attention. If you are concerned about your baby's body temperature or if they have other symptoms, contact a doctor immediately.
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