What To Do if Your Child Has a Fever

A fever is one symptom that often leaves parents feeling unsure of what to do.

Your child feels hot so you grab the thermometer and, lo and behold, they have a fever. Whether this is their first fever or fifth, we know how much this problem can leave parents feeling worried. Often, parents don’t know when to treat a fever on their own and when to turn to our Gaithersburg, MD, pediatrician Dr. Farnoush Jamali at Prime Pediatrics for treatment. Let’s break it down so you know what to do when a fever affects your child,

Check Their Temperature

If you suspect that your child might have a fever, the only way to tell is to take their temperature. These days, there are a variety of digital thermometers on the market that are easy to use. While rectal thermometers do provide the most accurate reading for infants and toddlers, older children do best with oral thermometers. Of course, the best thermometer is the one that’s easiest for everyone. That may simply mean getting a digital infrared thermometer that you can hold to your child’s temple.

Should I Be Worried?

You’ll be happy to read that not all fevers require an urgent trip to see our Gaithersburg, MD, pediatrician for care. A normal body temperature is 98.6 F and a fever is considered at or above 100.4 F. If your child’s fever isn’t over 100.4 F then there is no reason to worry. You also shouldn’t be worried if,

• Your child’s low-grade fever occurs after a vaccination (this is a normal biological response, and is actually a good sign)
• Your child’s low-grade fever lasts a couple of days but they are still acting, sleeping, eating and behaving normally
• Your child has a fever up to 102.5 F if they are between the ages of 3 months to 3 years
• Your child is over 3 years old and has a fever under 100.3 F

Of course, you should feel free to give our office a call if you are ever concerned about your child’s fever or how to best treat it. Medication is rarely recommended; however, sometimes over-the-counter pain relievers such as Tylenol can help older children (just make sure to ask your doctor first before giving them any medication).

When Should I Seek Treatment?

Yes, there are certainly instances where a fever needs to be treated by our Gaithersburg, MD, pediatrician. Here’s when you need to give us a call,

• Your child’s fever lasts more than five days
• Their fever rises above 104 F
• Your child is under 3 months old and develops a fever (even a low-grade fever)
• Your child’s behaviors have changed or they’ve stopped eating while dealing with a fever

If you are ever concerned about the health of your child or the symptoms they are experiencing, don’t hesitate to call our Gaithersburg, MD, pediatrician Dr. Jamali and the team at Prime Pediatrics to find out whether your child needs to come in for immediate care. Call us anytime at (301) 977-2440.