In the hustle of back-to-school preparations, I bet you’ve had school physicals frisco in your Google search bar more than once. I get it. As a parent, your child’s health is your top priority. When your little one feels warm, your heart skips a beat. You grab the thermometer and, yes, it’s a fever. The worry sets in. Is this normal? When is it time to call the doctor? Let us walk you through this, offering some professional pediatrician insights into when a fever should cause concern.

Understanding what a fever is

A fever is not an illness. It’s a sign that the body is fighting off an infection. The body temperature of a healthy child can vary during the day. It can peak in the late afternoon or early evening.

Normal temperature range

What’s considered normal for a child might be different from an adult. For a baby under three months, a temperature above 100.4°F is a cause for concern. For older kids, anything above 102°F warrants a call to the doctor.

Factors that can influence body temperature

Beyond illness, other factors can cause a rise in body temperature. Has your child been running around? Dressed too warmly? In a hot environment? These might explain the warmth.

When to worry about a fever

More important than the number on the thermometer is how your child is acting. Are they lethargic? Not drinking or eating? Inconsolable? These are worrying signs. A fever lasting more than three days, or accompanied by other symptoms like a rash, severe headache, sore throat, or ear pain, needs immediate medical attention.

What you can do

  • Keep your child comfortable. Dress them in lightweight clothing and ensure the room is at a comfortable temperature.
  • Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids – water, soup, popsicles.
  • For babies, ensure they’re getting enough breastmilk or formula.

Medications

Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can bring down a fever. But remember, they’re not curing the underlying disease. If your child is comfortable, medication might not be necessary.

Remember, you know your child best. Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to seek medical help. And remember, fevers are usually a sign that your child’s body is fighting off an infection – it’s doing its job.

We hope this guide helps to put your mind at ease the next time your child has a fever. As a parent, it’s natural to worry, but with a little knowledge, you can navigate these feverish waters with confidence.

By Alexander James

Beau Alexander James: Beau, a mental health advocate, shares personal stories, coping strategies, and promotes mental health awareness and understanding.