When your child has a fever, it’s essential to know when it’s time to seek medical attention. In this article, we’ll explore some signs that indicate your child’s fever requires medical attention and discuss what you can do at home to provide relief. We’ll also address common questions about fever and provide tips for feeding your sick child.
When Should You Seek Medical Help?
The following are some signs that you should see a doctor concerning:
- If the temperature rises to 40 degrees or higher, seek medical attention. If a newborn has a fever, or if an infant has a prolonged fever or appears to be very ill, seek medical attention right away.
- If your child has a fever that is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- If your child has an unknown rash on his or her body.
- If your child has been in an extremely hot environment, such as a hot car.
- If your child has trouble getting out of bed. Signs Your Child’s Fever Requires Medical Attention.
- If your child is constantly crying and complaining about being sick, this is a sign that he or she is sick.
- If your child is on steroids or has a problem with his or her immune system.
- If your child is suffering from a severe headache or has a stiff neck.
Take your child to the emergency room right away if they exhibit any of the following symptoms:
- If your child is having trouble breathing.
- If your child is not responding.
- If your child suffers from a seizure or convulsion.
- If your child’s lips or skin are blue.
When Should a Baby Fever Be Treated at Home?
- Treat fever only if the child is in pain or temp is high.
- Do things to lower fever & comfort the child if sick.
- Febrile seizures common in 6 months -5 yr old, usually harmless.
Some Home Remedies Help Bring a Fever Down
If your child has a fever and is in pain, you should focus on providing them with relief. The best way to keep an eye on your toddler’s temperature is to use a thermometer.
Here are a few safe home remedies for your toddler’s high temperature:
- Cold washcloths or FeverMates on forehead/wrists for relief.
- Dress a child in light clothing.
- Encourage fluids for hydration.
- Use mildly warm water for bathing.
- Consult a doctor for necessary medication to lower fever.
Don’t & Do – Following when your child has a fever:
- Low-mid grade fever is usually not risky alone.
- Don’t use ice or rubbing alcohol to lower the temperature.
- No aspirin to kids, may cause serious disease.
- Don’t wrap in heavy blankets if chilled.
- Under 4, give cold/flu medicine & consult doctor for child-specific cold medicine.
What Should You Feed Your Sick Child If They Have a Fever?
A child can eat anything! But in the case of sick children, it’s essential to maintain calorie intake so that their bodies have the nutrients they need to fight.
- Child with only a fever will want normal eating habits.
- Hydrating meals combat sickness best.
- Soup (veggie/chicken) is good.
- Fruits and veggies with water & vitamins help recovery.
Is it true that teething causes fevers?
Teething isn’t thought to be the cause of fever. It’s possible that your teething baby’s fever is caused by another underlying condition.
Summary
Having a sick child can be a worrisome experience for parents. A child’s fever indicates that their immune system is fighting an infection. While reducing the fever won’t cure the infection, it can provide some relief and allow time to re-evaluate the child’s symptoms. It’s important to consult a doctor before giving any medication to a child and seek medical attention if the fever is high or lasts for more than a day or two.
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