Fever 101

When your baby has a fever, it can be an unpleasant experience for both baby and parents. Not much is scarier than a baby blazing hot with fever and many first-time parents aren't sure what to do. Here are some basics to help new parents learn more about fever and how to handle one.

A fever is an elevation in body temperature above normal. Your child has a fever if his temperature is higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit measured rectally. If baby's fever is higher than you expected, don't be immediately alarmed. "Fever can be a good thing," shares Christian Nechyba, MD of Carolina Kids Pediatric Associates in Raleigh. "It can be helpful in the fight against infection, especially when baby can't always communicate what's wrong."

Whenever possible, you should take a rectal temperature - especially in children who are too young to articulate their symptoms. Parents should purchase a digital thermometer with a flexible tip that won't harm the baby. "It is important to know how to check your child's temperature accurately," says Nechyba. "Go over with a nurse or doctor how to take baby's temperature before leaving the hospital." If you're feeling unsure, bring a rectal thermometer to your next well baby visit. Ask the nurse to demonstrate and practice in front of her until you're comfortable. Most doctors don't encourage using ear thermometers in young babies as they do not provide the most accurate reading. Ear thermometers vary widely in reliability and doctors report discrepancies between temperatures parents take at home with some of these thermometers and the ones they get in the office.

When should I call the doctor?

If your baby is less than three months old and has a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or more, call your doctor immediately. If your child is between three and six months with a fever higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit, or if your child is older than six months with a fever higher than 104 degrees Fahrenheit, she should be evaluated by a pediatrician. In older babies, fever may be a sign of a harmless viral infection. "Parents can watch a low-grade fever for several days as long as there are no other extreme signs or symptoms," adds Nechyba.

Though it's tough, try to stay calm when your little one has a fever. Remember, the degree of temperature doesn't indicate the severity of the illness. The child's level of activity and appearance are more important. Fevers only need to be treated to make your child more comfortable. Always remember - a HOT child needs COOL parents.

If your child has a fever, follow these guidelines:

  • Call your physician if your child is under three months of age with any fever.
  • Encourage him to drink more fluids.
  • Dress him lightly.
  • Avoid alcohol or tepid baths. They make baby shiver and aren't comforting to the baby.
  • Offer either Tylenol or Motrin, but do not alternate. NEVER give your child Aspirin. Always be sure to check the dosage of any medication.
  • Call your doctor if a fever is greater than 105 degrees, if it persists longer than 72 hours, or if your child is confused or difficult to arouse.