High fevers in kids: essential tips for parents.
Few things worry parents more than seeing their child with a high fever. When your child feels hot to the touch and the thermometer shows a higher reading than usual, it’s natural to feel concerned. However, a fever is often the body’s way of fighting off infections, and not every high temperature requires an emergency trip to the doctor.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to recognize the signs of a high fever, the most common causes, and what you can do at home to manage it. We’ll also discuss when it’s time to seek professional help.
The signs of a high fever in kids.
It’s important to know what counts as a high fever in children. A fever is the body’s natural response to infections, but when it reaches a certain point, it can become a concern. Here are the common signs to look for:
- Temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. This is the general threshold for a fever in kids.
- Hot to the touch. Your child may feel unusually warm on their forehead, back, or stomach.
- Sweating or chills. Even with a high temperature, your child may shiver or sweat.
- Irritability or fussiness. Kids with a fever often become cranky or more tired than usual.
- Lethargy. A high fever can make your child feel sluggish, weak, or fatigued.
While a high fever alone isn’t always a cause for alarm, it’s essential to monitor how your child is acting. Sometimes, their behavior can indicate the severity of the illness more than the number on the thermometer.
Common causes of high fever in children.
Many different conditions can cause a high fever. Here are some of the most common:
- Viral infections. Fevers from viral infections are quite common. Illnesses like the flu, common cold, or roseola can all lead to fevers as the body fights off the virus. Other viral infections, such as RSV, COVID-19, hand, foot, and mouth disease, and viral gastroenteritis, can also cause fevers.
- Bacterial infections. Bacterial infections are more severe and typically require antibiotics. Common causes include strep throat, ear infections, pneumonia, and urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Immunizations. After certain vaccinations, like the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) or DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) vaccines, children may develop a mild fever for a day or two. Since it’s time for fall immunizations, you may experience this sooner rather than later.
- Heat exhaustion. Spending too much time in the sun or being physically active in hot weather can raise your child’s body temperature. While this isn’t an infection-related fever, it can still be serious and needs immediate attention.
- Infections in newborns. Fevers in babies younger than 3 months can signal serious infections like meningitis, sepsis, or UTIs. Babies with fevers should be seen by a doctor immediately.
Understanding the cause of your child’s fever can help determine the right course of treatment. Some fevers resolve on their own, while others may need medical intervention.
How to manage a high fever at home and when to seek help.
For most fevers, home care is enough for most fevers to help your child feel better. As a parent, you play a crucial role in managing their fever at home:
- Keep them hydrated. Fevers can cause fluid loss. Offer water, juice, or electrolyte drinks regularly.
- Use fever reducers. Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help lower the fever. Be sure to follow the recommended dosage for your child’s age and weight.
- Keep them comfortable. Dress your child in lightweight clothing and use a light blanket if they have chills.
- Cool the body. A lukewarm bath or cool compress can help bring the temperature down without causing chills.
These steps can help manage your child’s fever at home.
When to seek professional help.
Most fevers that last 1-2 days, can be managed at home with fever reducers, hydration and rest. However, it is often important to identify the source of fever, particularly if the fever lasts more than 3 days. While many causes of fever are viral and self-limiting in nature, there are bacterial and other causes that may require intervention and prescription medication.
Stop by your nearest CityMD to be evaluated if your child's fever is persistent, and/or secondary symptoms related to fever are not getting better.
If your child is younger than 1 month old and has a fever, you should proceed to the nearest Emergency Department for an evaluation. If your child is lethargic, is inconsolable, has a stiff neck, severe headache, severe abdominal pain or difficulty breathing, they should also be taken the nearest Emergency Department.
Conclusion.
While high fevers in kids can be concerning, they are often a sign that the body is doing its job to fight off infections. Knowing the signs of a high fever, understanding the common causes, and learning how to manage it at home can give you peace of mind as a parent.
But if you’re ever unsure or if your child’s fever persists or worsens, CityMD is here to help. We’re just a visit away to ensure your child gets the care they need to recover quickly.
Remember, if you're ever in doubt about your child's fever, seek professional medical advice. Visit your nearest CityMD if you need assistance managing your child’s fever.
We’re ready to care for you.
Visit any CityMD urgent care location in your community today for an evaluation with one of our expert providers.