What are the common causes of fever in children. How can parents effectively manage a child’s fever at home. When should parents seek medical attention for a child with fever. What are the best practices for taking a child’s temperature accurately.

Understanding Fever in Children: Causes and Mechanisms

Fever is a common occurrence in children and often causes concern for parents. But what exactly causes fever in kids? A fever is typically defined as a body temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) and is usually a sign that the body is fighting off an infection.

The body raises its temperature as a defense mechanism against invading pathogens. This increased heat helps to:

• Slow down the growth and reproduction of bacteria and viruses
• Enhance the immune system’s ability to fight infection
• Increase the production of white blood cells

Can fever be beneficial for children? In most cases, a mild to moderate fever can actually be helpful in fighting off infections. It’s the body’s natural way of creating an environment that’s less hospitable to harmful microorganisms.

Common Causes of Fever in Children

Fever in children can be triggered by various factors, including:

1. Viral infections (e.g., common cold, flu)
2. Bacterial infections (e.g., strep throat, ear infections)
3. Immunizations
4. Teething (in infants and toddlers)
5. Heat exhaustion
6. Certain medications
7. Autoimmune disorders (less common)

Is it possible to determine the cause of fever based on its intensity? While the height of a fever doesn’t necessarily indicate the severity of an illness, persistent high fevers or those accompanied by other symptoms may warrant medical attention.

Safe and Effective Home Management of Fever in Children

When a child develops a fever, parents can take several steps to manage it at home and make their child more comfortable:

• Encourage fluid intake to prevent dehydration
• Dress the child in light, breathable clothing
• Keep the room temperature comfortable (not too hot or cold)
• Offer a lukewarm sponge bath if the child is uncomfortable
• Provide rest and quiet activities

Should parents always try to lower a child’s fever? Not necessarily. Mild fevers (below 102°F or 38.9°C) in otherwise healthy children often don’t require treatment and may help the body fight infection more effectively.

Medication Options for Fever Reduction

If a child is uncomfortable or has a higher fever, over-the-counter medications can help. The two main options are:

1. Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Safe for children of all ages
2. Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): For children 6 months and older

How should parents determine the correct dosage of fever-reducing medication? Always follow the dosing instructions on the label or consult with a pediatrician. Dosage is typically based on the child’s weight rather than age.

When to Seek Medical Attention for a Child’s Fever

While most fevers in children are not cause for alarm, certain situations require prompt medical attention:

• Fever in infants under 3 months old (100.4°F or 38°C or higher)
• Fever lasting more than 3 days
• Fever of 104°F (40°C) or higher
• Signs of dehydration
• Fever accompanied by severe headache, stiff neck, or rash
• Seizures associated with fever
• Child appears very ill, lethargic, or unresponsive

Are there specific symptoms that should prompt immediate medical care? Yes, if a child with fever exhibits difficulty breathing, severe abdominal pain, or signs of a serious infection like meningitis (e.g., severe headache, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light), seek emergency medical care immediately.

Accurate Temperature Measurement: Techniques and Tools

Taking an accurate temperature is crucial for assessing a child’s condition. Different methods are appropriate for different age groups:

Rectal Temperature (Most Accurate for Young Children)

To take a rectal temperature:

1. Clean the thermometer with soap and water
2. Lubricate the tip with petroleum jelly
3. Gently insert the tip about 1/2 to 1 inch into the rectum
4. Hold in place until the thermometer signals it’s done
5. Carefully remove and read the temperature

Why is rectal temperature considered the most accurate method for young children? The rectum’s internal location provides a more precise core body temperature reading compared to other sites.

Oral Temperature (For Older Children)

For children 4-5 years and older who can follow instructions:

• Place the thermometer under the tongue towards the back
• Have the child close their lips around it
• Wait until the thermometer signals completion

Axillary (Armpit) Temperature

While less accurate, axillary temperature can be a convenient option:

• Place the thermometer in the center of the armpit
• Hold the arm tightly against the body
• Wait for the thermometer to signal
• Add 1°F (0.6°C) to the reading for a more accurate estimate

Which type of thermometer is best for children? Digital thermometers are generally recommended for their accuracy and ease of use. Avoid glass mercury thermometers due to the risk of breakage and mercury exposure.

Fever-Related Complications: Understanding and Prevention

While fever itself is rarely harmful, it can sometimes lead to complications that require attention:

Febrile Seizures

Febrile seizures are convulsions that can occur in young children with high fevers. While frightening, they are generally harmless and don’t cause long-term effects. However, it’s important to:

• Ensure the child’s safety during the seizure
• Note the duration and characteristics of the seizure
• Seek medical evaluation after the first occurrence

Do febrile seizures indicate a serious underlying condition? In most cases, febrile seizures are benign and not indicative of epilepsy or brain damage. However, a thorough medical evaluation is recommended to rule out other potential causes.

Dehydration

Fever can increase fluid loss through sweating and rapid breathing. Signs of dehydration include:

• Dry mouth and lips
• Sunken eyes
• Decreased urine output
• Lethargy or irritability

How can parents prevent dehydration during a fever? Offer frequent small sips of water, clear broths, or electrolyte solutions designed for children. For infants, continue breastfeeding or formula feeding as usual.

Common Myths and Misconceptions About Childhood Fevers

Several myths persist about childhood fevers, leading to unnecessary worry and sometimes inappropriate treatment:

Myth 1: Fever is dangerous and can cause brain damage

Reality: Typical fevers (under 105°F or 40.6°C) do not cause brain damage. The body has mechanisms to prevent temperatures from rising to dangerous levels.

Myth 2: All fevers need to be treated with medication

Reality: Low-grade fevers often don’t require treatment if the child is comfortable. Fever is part of the body’s natural defense against infection.

Myth 3: Children with fever shouldn’t eat

Reality: While appetite may decrease during illness, children should be encouraged to eat if they feel up to it. Staying hydrated is more critical than food intake during short illnesses.

Myth 4: Bundling a child will “sweat out” a fever

Reality: Overdressing or bundling a feverish child can actually increase their temperature and discomfort. Light, breathable clothing is best.

Why do these myths persist, and how can parents access accurate information? Misinformation often spreads through well-meaning advice from family and friends. Parents should rely on reputable medical sources and consult with healthcare providers for up-to-date, evidence-based information on managing childhood fevers.

The Role of Immunity and Vaccinations in Fever Prevention

Understanding the relationship between a child’s immune system, vaccinations, and fever can help parents better manage their child’s health:

Developing Immunity

Children’s immune systems are constantly developing as they encounter new pathogens. This process can lead to frequent mild illnesses and fevers, especially in young children attending daycare or school.

Vaccination and Fever

Vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce protective antibodies. This process can sometimes cause a mild fever as a side effect. Common vaccines that may cause fever include:

• DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
• Pneumococcal vaccine
• Influenza vaccine

Is post-vaccination fever a cause for concern? Mild fever following vaccination is generally not a cause for alarm and typically resolves within a day or two. However, parents should monitor for any signs of severe reactions and contact their healthcare provider if concerned.

Building Natural Immunity

Exposure to common pathogens helps children develop a robust immune system over time. This natural process can involve occasional fevers but ultimately leads to stronger overall health.

How can parents support their child’s developing immune system? Encourage healthy habits such as:

• A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
• Adequate sleep
• Regular physical activity
• Good hygiene practices
• Stress management (even for young children)

By understanding the role of immunity and vaccinations, parents can approach childhood fevers with greater confidence and make informed decisions about their child’s health care.

What to Do When Your Kid Has a Fever

Written by R. Morgan Griffin

• What You Should Do
• What You Shouldn’t Do
• When Should You Call the Doctor?
• Tips to Take Your Child’s Temperature

If you’re a parent, it’s a scene that’s all too familiar. You put your hand on your sick child’s forehead and it feels warm. Then the thermometer confirms your suspicion: They’ve got a fever. But if you follow some simple rules you’ll make them more comfortable and keep them safe.

Fever is a defense against infection. Your child’s body is raising its temperature to kill the germs. In most cases it’s harmless and goes away on its own in 3 days.

Acetaminophen can lower your child’s temperature. If they’re older than 2, the dose will be listed on the label. If they’re younger, ask your doctor how much to give them.

Another option is ibuprofen if your child is at least 6 months old.

There’s a lot you can do to make them feel better. Put a cool compress on their head and keep their room at a moderate temperature — not too hot and not too cold. Dress them in one layer of light clothing and offer a light blanket. You can also cool them off with a lukewarm sponge bath.

And don’t forget — make sure they drink a lot of fluids.

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

Avoid combination cold and flu remedies in young kids. They shouldn’t be used in children under age 4. In older kids, it’s unclear how well they work.

If you decide to use a cold medicine, check with your pediatrician to be sure your child is old enough for the type of medicine you’re considering. According to the FDA, no child under the age of 2 should be given any kind of cough or cold product that contains a decongestant or antihistamine, and caution should be used even in children who are older than 2. In addition, no child under 4 years of age should be given a product that combines cough and cold medicines. The possible side-effects can be serious and even life-threatening.

If the doctor says it’s OK to use a cough or cold medicine, then read the label before you buy and pick the one that most closely matches your child’s symptoms. Don’t switch back and forth between different medications without your pediatrician’s OK.

Don’t use an icy cold bath or rub your child’s skin with alcohol. Either can actually drive a fever up.

And even if your child has the chills, don’t bundle them up with thick blankets or clothes.

Usually, you don’t need to take your sick child to the doctor. But sometimes fever can be a serious warning sign. Call your pediatrician if your child:

• Has a temperature of 104 F or higher
• Is under 3 months old and has a temperature of 100.4 F or higher
• Has a fever that lasts for more than 72 hours (or more than 24 hours if your child is under age 2)
• Has a fever along with other symptoms such as a stiff neck, extremely sore throat, ear pain, rash, or severe headache
• Has a seizure
• Seems very sick, upset, or unresponsive

How often do you need to check? That depends on the situation. Ask your pediatrician. Usually, you don’t need to take your child’s temperature obsessively or wake them up if they’re sleeping peacefully. But you should do it if their energy seems low or if your child has a history of seizures with fever.

Which thermometer is best for kids? Digital ones are best. They can be used in their mouth, rectally, or under the arm.

For young children, a rectal temperature is most accurate. If your kids are at least 4 or 5 years old, you can probably get a good reading with a thermometer in the mouth. Under the arm is less reliable but it’s easier to do. Remember to add a degree to an underarm reading to get a more accurate number.

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When to seek help and treatment

A fever can occur in toddlers for a variety of reasons. While not all fevers are serious, certain conditions that cause high temperatures in toddlers need urgent medical attention.

A fever usually means that a child’s body is fighting off an infection. However, there are symptoms a person should look for when a toddler has a fever.

Read on to learn when a toddler with a fever needs urgent medical attention, as well as treatments and potential causes.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a child’s normal body temperature should be between 97ºF (36ºC) and 100.4ºF (38ºC).

Children and babies can have higher temperatures than adults, as they have a larger surface area compared to their body weight. Toddlers also sweat less and have a faster metabolism, which can cause them to have a higher body temperature.

According to a 2019 article, a fever alone is rarely harmful and does not typically exceed 105.8ºF (41ºC). While fevers higher than this temperature can be dangerous, they are rare.

Febrile seizures

A febrile seizure is a seizure that occurs when a toddler has a fever. Although they may seem alarming, they are not dangerous and typically last a few minutes.

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke notes that these types of seizures occur in 2⁠–5% of children below 5 years old.

Symptoms of a febrile seizure include:

• loss of consciousness
• uncontrollable shaking of legs and arms
• eye rolling
• stiff limbs
• twitching in one area of the body

If a toddler’s febrile seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, or the child does not seem to be getting better, seek immediate medical attention.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends contacting a doctor if a toddler experiences a fever of 102ºF (38.8ºC) or more.

A parent of caregiver should also contact a doctor if the toddler has:

• other signs of illness, such as rash
• a fever that lasts for 5 days or more
• a fever that does not reduce with acetaminophen
• a cough that lasts for more than 3 weeks
• persistent ear pain
• signs of dehydration

Learn more about signs of dehydration in toddlers.

A review from 2019 noted that only 1 in 100 children with a fever will require urgent medical attention. However, an individual should seek urgent care if the toddler experiences:

• difficulty breathing, including nostrils widening with each breath
• wheezing
• fast breathing
• shortness of breath
• ribs showing with each breath
• excessive crankiness or sleepiness
• symptoms seeming to be getting worse
• excessive crying
• fever that comes and goes
• blue or grey lips

Additionally, meningitis is a serious condition that can cause fever in toddlers. A person should take the child to the emergency room immediately if they experience fever along with any of the following symptoms:

• headache
• stiff neck
• dislike of bright lights
• sleepiness
• trouble waking up
• nausea
• irritability
• vomiting
• lack of appetite
• lack of energy
• a rash that does not fade under pressure — use a glass to test for this

A caregiver does not always need to reduce a fever. A fever lower than 101ºF (38ºC) does not require treatment unless the toddler is uncomfortable.

Fever occurs due to the body reacting to contracting a viral or bacterial infection. Bacteria and viruses can thrive at the body’s normal temperature — by increasing its internal temperature, the body can help kill the infection.

While certain drugs can help lower a child’s fever, they do not treat its underlying cause.

Parents and caregivers should be aware of the following when treating a toddler’s fever:

• do not rub a toddler down with alcohol, as the skin may absorb it, leading to coma
• do not put a toddler in a cold or ice bath, as this can cause shivering and increase their temperature
• do not undress the toddler
• do not delay seeking medical attention for a toddler who appears very ill
• do not give a toddler any medication not meant for a child

A person should also avoid giving aspirin to children as this can increase the chance of developing Reye’s syndrome.

A person can take a child’s temperature in a variety of ways, including:

• Forehead temperature: Although this is appropriate for children of any age, using it in direct sunlight can affect temperature readings.
• Mouth temperature: This is suitable for those above the age of 4 years. A person places the tip of the thermometer under the tongue and waits until they hear a beep. To get an accurate reading, individuals should wait for 30 minutes after the child has had anything hot or cold to drink.
• Ear temperature: This is appropriate for those older than 6 months. When using an ear thermometer, aim the tip slightly diagonally toward the face.

A person should take the child’s temperature three times a day, if possible.

There are many reasons why a toddler might have a fever. Possible causes include illness due to viruses or bacteria, such as:

• the common cold
• urinary tract infections
• ear infections
• rubella
• mumps
• measles
• scarlet fever
• chickenpox
• gastroenteritis

Other causes include:

• having a vaccination
• sunburn
• dehydration

There are many reasons why a toddler might have a fever. This symptom is a byproduct of a child healing from acquiring an infection, and it does not necessarily need treating. However, a caregiver can provide home care to help the infant feel more comfortable.

Seek medical help if a toddler has a fever of 102ºF (38.8ºC) or more.

Many conditions can lead to a toddler experiencing a fever. If a parent or caregiver has concerns about the toddler’s temperature, they should speak with a doctor.

Causes of temperature without symptoms in a child

Unreasonable, at first glance, fever in a child always becomes a cause for concern for parents. Even if the fever is not accompanied by typical manifestations of a cold or poisoning, it still indicates that not everything is in order with the baby’s body. Fever without symptoms in a child can be associated with various diseases and pathological conditions. To understand the cause of the fever, you need to see a doctor. In any case, if the thermometer rises to 38 ° C, or the baby feels unwell even with a slight heat, it is important to alleviate his condition with the help of a drug suitable for age. As such a remedy, MAXICOLD® RINO for CHILDREN from 12 years old can be used.

Possible causes of asymptomatic fever in a child

Viral diseases. Often the cause of asymptomatic fever in children is infection with an acute respiratory viral infection, which in everyday life we ​​usually call the common cold. In the early days, the disease may not be accompanied by a runny nose, sore throat and other unpleasant manifestations. In addition, children often tolerate SARS more easily than adults, continuing to play and run as usual, almost not noticing the fever. If, in the absence of symptoms, the child’s temperature lasts for 3-4 days, and then small red rashes appear on the baby’s body, this may indicate roseola, a disease caused by the herpes virus.

Latent bacterial infections . A temperature of 38 ° C without symptoms in a child may indicate the development of pneumonia, acute pyelonephritis, infectious diseases of the lower urinary tract. The thermometer readings can be higher or lower – from 37 to 39 ° C. In some diseases, there is also a higher temperature. In any case, additional examinations will be required to identify a latent bacterial infection. What tests to do, the doctor will tell.

Overheating. Heat stroke is a common cause of fever in a child without cold symptoms during the summer season. If the baby was in the sun for a long time without a hat, stayed in a stuffy room or a closed car in hot weather, he may develop hyperthermia. With a slight overheating, there are usually no other complaints. However, the baby may be unusually lethargic.

Teething . In young children (average 4 months to 2 years), the cause of a fever without other symptoms is often teething. Thermometer readings usually range from 37 to 38 ° C, but sometimes the temperature can rise even higher. Not all children during teething, other than fever, do not have any pronounced symptoms. Parents may note increased anxiety of the baby, the desire to scratch the gums.

Other reasons . In the absence of other symptoms, a temperature of 39 ° C in a child may be associated with the presence of some systemic autoimmune diseases, infection entering the bloodstream, pathologies of the hypothalamus (anatomical formation in the brain responsible for thermoregulation). If the baby was vaccinated the day before, the fever may be a reaction to the vaccine.

What to do if the child has a temperature without symptoms

Give the sick person more water . At high temperatures, the body loses a large amount of fluid with sweat. Its deficiency must be filled. That is why at a temperature without symptoms, the child needs to drink plenty of fluids. The baby can be given ordinary water, compote, berry juice. Drinks should preferably be warm, but not hot. If the temperature is very high, it is necessary to give water to children in small portions (from a spoon) every 10 minutes.

Provide optimal conditions for the patient . If your child has a fever without symptoms, dress them in light, homely clothing to avoid overheating. Ventilate the room where the baby is located every hour. Provide him with bed rest and complete rest, especially if he feels unwell. Do not cover the child with a warm blanket – this can lead to overheating.

Reduce high temperature . If the thermometer readings are kept at around 38-39 ° C, it is advisable to use age-appropriate antipyretic drugs. For example, for children from 12 years old, MAXICOLD® RINO can be used. If there are febrile convulsions or some pathologies of the nervous system in the history of the disease, even a low temperature should be brought down. At a temperature of 37 ° C without symptoms in a child, it is unnecessary to give him an antipyretic.

Call a doctor. If the child has a fever without symptoms, consult a pediatrician. On examination, a specialist may notice the initial signs of the disease, which can be difficult to determine without appropriate knowledge and training.

When should an ambulance be called when a child has a fever? The appearance of one or more of the following signs is a reason to call an ambulance.

Signs of dehydration. The baby has become less likely to go to the toilet, his urine has darkened, symptoms such as weakness, lethargy, lack of tears when crying are observed.

There is confusion. The child does not respond to the speech addressed to him, cannot concentrate his attention, his consciousness is disturbed, delirium has appeared.

No antipyretic effect. It is not possible to bring down the high temperature even for a short time with the help of medicines.

Respiratory problems observed. The baby’s breathing becomes very frequent or, on the contrary, rare, hoarse, whistling.

MAXICOLD® RINO is a combined antipyretic drug against the main symptoms of colds and flu for adults and children from 12 years of age.

* for the active substance ibuprofen
1 For children older than 3 months, in accordance with the instructions for medical use of MAXICOLD® for CHILDREN and after consultation with a doctor.
2 Ushkalova, E.A. Safety profile of analgesics-antipyretics in pediatrics / Russian Medical Journal. -2014.- T. 22. – No. 21.- S. 1526-1529.
3 Morozova T.E., Rykova S.M., Yudina I.Yu. Ibuprofen in Children: Efficacy and Safety Profile: Pediatric Practice, September 2014, p. 18-22.

What to do if the child does not have a fever

The increased body temperature of the child causes anxiety in parents. If the standard portion of the antipyretic does not lead to the desired effect, anxiety often turns into panic. Rubdowns, additional intake of antipyretics and cold baths are used. The harm from such actions is often much more than good.

Valeria Shapovalova , a pediatrician at SM-Clinic.Children, told Gazeta.ru about how, in what cases and to what indicators it is worth bringing down the temperature.

It is important to understand that fever is not a disease but a symptom. So, it is necessary to understand what caused it. The reasons may be obvious: for example, teething in young children, tonsillitis or SARS with all the accompanying symptoms.

If the temperature rises suddenly and it is not clear why, it is necessary to find out what caused it and immediately contact a doctor for examination and consultation.

What temperature does not require lowering

It is a mistake to assume that any indicator above 36.6°C requires an immediate response. For example, with ARVI, the temperature can rise quite high, but until the thermometer reaches 38.5 ° C, you can do without antipyretic drugs: cool air in the room and plenty of fluids are enough.

But if the child had a history of convulsions or a respiratory-affective syndrome (short-term cessation of breathing), it is necessary to use an antipyretic drug in the correct dosage, after consulting with the pediatrician.

What to do if the temperature does not drop

If the temperature does not drop despite taking an antipyretic, undress the child and apply a damp, cool towel to his forehead.

It is very important to remember the importance of drinking plenty of fluids, because when the body temperature rises, the body consumes more fluid, and if you do not take care of timely replenishment, you can prevent dehydration – an extremely dangerous condition that can lead to serious disturbances in the functioning of the body.

Remember that there is no need to lower the temperature to 36.6°C – it is important that the general condition of the child improves. For this, it will often be enough if it falls at least a degree or a half.

What not to do to reduce the temperature

If the measures taken do not bring any positive results and the child does not get better, it is important not to hesitate and call an ambulance. Unfortunately, all other “folk” methods will not bring any effect and can be harmful. These include:

• Additional intake of antipyretic

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It is absolutely impossible to give drugs more often than indicated in the instructions – both the full dose and half. Each drug has side effects, and if the dosage regimen is exceeded, the risk of adverse effects on the child’s body increases.

• Bathing in a cool bath

Bathing and even just a full rubdown is not helpful in fever. It may temporarily lower the temperature of the skin, but the temperature inside the body will still be high. In addition, cold water can cause spasm of peripheral vessels.

The only acceptable option is to wipe only the forehead, cheeks and palms with a wet towel.

• The use of aspirin and analgin

Medications to reduce fever, which can be used after consultation with a doctor – rectal suppositories, syrups based on ibuprofen or paracetamol, and combined antipyretics.

The use of analgin and aspirin as antipyretics should be left in the past, these drugs have many serious side effects.