FEVERS

FEVERS
Fevers are a body’s natural response to, and defense against infections. Fevers generally fluctuate over the course of the day, with some of the highest fevers occurring during the evening. Not all fevers require treatment or evaluation by a physician.

Fevers are generally defined as temperatures greater than or equal to 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius) rectally. Depending on the type of thermometer (glass, digital or thermo scan), and where the temperature is taken (mouth, rectum, ear or underarm), the measurement can vary greatly. We recommend rectal digital or glass thermometers for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Once a child can hold a thermometer under his tongue, an oral digital or glass thermometer is very accurate. While underarm thermometers, thermo scans, and pacifier thermometers may be easier, they are far less accurate.

In babies up to 8 weeks old, a fever (temperature greater than or equal to 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit rectally) may represent a very serious infection. For this reason, our office should be contacted day or night, so that your child can be evaluated quickly. No Tylenol or fever reducer should be given at this age without contacting our office.

In older children, fevers less frequently represent serious infections. Many viral and bacterial infections cause fevers for several days at the onset of illness. The height of the fever commonly ranges from 100.4-105 degrees Fahrenheit. Fevers higher than 105 degrees Fahrenheit are unusual and require immediate evaluation. Generally, the height of fever (100.4-105) is less concerning than the overall appearance of the child (irritability, lethargy, poor feeding). If a child has a fever and acts sick, he can be treated with fever reducers (see Tylenol and Ibuprofen dosing). Once a dose is taking effect, the child should perk-up and become less cranky. It is reassuring to see a child eat, play and seem happier once the fever comes down. If this improvement does not occur, our office should be contacted. Children with fevers also require increased fluids to avoid dehydration. Despite feeling chilled, they should be dressed in light clothing to allow release of heat.

Fevers requiring medical evaluation include:
-Fevers greater than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit in newborns up to 2 months old
-Fevers lasting more than 4 days
-Fevers associated with irritability, lethargy, poor feeding, poor sleeping
-Fevers associated with specific complaints (such as ear pain, pain with urination)
-Fevers that begin several days (or more) after the onset of the illness

The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional care.
You should consult your own physician or other health care provider for specific advice and treatment,
which advice and treatment will be based upon your individual facts and circumstances.