It can be frightening when your child has a fever, especially if it is high. Although it might be scary, a fever is actually an indication that your child’s body is working properly. Fevers are the body’s way of fighting off infection and germs. There are several actions you can take at home to reduce the fever, but it is also important to know when to call the doctor. Dr. Robert Miller and Dr. Crystal Brown, the experienced pediatricians at our office in Leonardtown, can advise you on what to do if your child has a fever.
Tips for Reducing a Fever
Several things can be done to reduce your child’s fever at home. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can bring down your little one’s temperature. Follow the dosing guidelines when giving your child medication for a fever. The proper dose is usually based on age and weight. Other ways to reduce fever include applying a cold compress to the forehead or bathing in lukewarm water. It is also beneficial to make sure your child is drinking plenty of fluids.
When To Call a Doctor
You can always call a doctor if you are uncertain about how to handle your child’s fever. Call right away if you are unable to bring the fever down, it has persisted for more than 24 hours or is especially high. Whether or not a temperature is considered high can depend on the child’s age. A fever of 104 degrees F is extremely high for children of all ages. Fevers of 103 degrees F are high in infants between six months and one year old. For babies between three and six months old, 101 degrees F is high, while a temperature of 100.4 or more is high for babies up to six months old.
Even if the fever is low, you should call the doctor if it is accompanied by a rash, dehydration, or repeated vomiting or diarrhea. In combination with other symptoms, a fever could be an indication of a more serious health concern. The highly skilled pediatricians at our office in Leonardtown can answer all your questions about fevers in children.
Mild fevers in children can often be remedied at home, but you can always call the doctor for guidance. Be sure to contact Dr. Miller or Dr. Brown right away if your child has a high fever, the fever has persisted for more than 24 hours, or is accompanied by certain symptoms.
To speak with one of our knowledgeable pediatricians, call our office in Leonardtown at (301) 475-7222 or in Waldorf at (301) 843-6996. Both in-office and telemedicine appointments are available.