When your child has a fever, it is a sign that their immune system is fighting off an infection. Reducing the fever will not help get rid of the infection, but it can relieve some discomfort, allowing an opportunity to evaluate your child’s symptoms re-.

Children with fevers may become more uncomfortable as the temperature rises. Along with the body temperature, your child may be less talkative as usual. In addition, he or she may become much fussier, less hungry, and thirstier. The symptoms may look like other health conditions and may even vary from child to child; that’s why pediatricians from Tualatin are always there to help in every way possible.

In children, a fever that is making them uncomfortable should be treated. Treating your child’s fever will not help the body get rid of the infection any faster. It simply will relieve discomfort linked to the fever.

What should you do to decrease your child’s fever?

● First of all, give your child an anti-fever medicine, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

● Dress your child lightly as excess clothing will trap body heat and cause the temperature to rise. 

● Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluid substances, such as water, juices, or popsicles.

● Next, give your child a lukewarm bath or sponge bath. As cold water can raise the body temperature.

● Put a cool compress on your child’s head and keep their room at a moderate temperature.

What shouldn’t you do?

● Never give your child aspirin as it can cause a serious condition called Reye’s syndrome.

● Avoid the combination of cold and flu remedies in young kids as they shouldn’t be used in underage children.

● If you decide to use cold medicine, check with pediatricians to ensure your child is old enough for the type of medicine you are considering. And Pediatricians from Tualatin are always there for any help.

● Don’t use an icy cold bath or rub your child’s skin with alcohol, as either can drive a fever up.

● Even if your child has chilled, don’t bundle them up with thick blankets or clothes.

When should you call your child’s healthcare provider?

● Your child is 3 months old or younger and has a high fever. Get medical help immediately as a high fever in a young baby can signify a dangerous infection.

● When the child has repetitive high fevers

● When your child is younger than 2 years and has a fever that lasts more than one day.

● When your child has a fever along with other symptoms such as a stiff neck, extremely sore throat, ear pain, rash, or severe headache.

● When your child is fussy or cries and can’t be soothed.

How often do you need to check the temperature of your child?

That depends on the situation; always consult your pediatrician. Usually, you don’t need to take your child’s temperature obsessively or wake them up if they sleep peacefully. But you should do it if their energy seems low.