Fever is defined as increase in rectal temperature of more than or equal to 100.4 F (38 C)
Fever is a protective mechanism that has beneficial effects in fighting infections by preventing the growth of bacteria and viruses. It is the body's immune response against foreign pathogens. Fever in children commonly leads to unscheduled doctor visits, phone calls, and wide use of over-the-counter medications. It is very important to let your health care provider know about your child's symptoms because increase in body temperature could be potential sign of severe infection, especially with neonates and infants.
Common symptoms
Along with the increase in body temperature, children may have symptoms like:
Fever is a protective mechanism that has beneficial effects in fighting infections by preventing the growth of bacteria and viruses. It is the body's immune response against foreign pathogens. Fever in children commonly leads to unscheduled doctor visits, phone calls, and wide use of over-the-counter medications. It is very important to let your health care provider know about your child's symptoms because increase in body temperature could be potential sign of severe infection, especially with neonates and infants.
Common symptoms
Along with the increase in body temperature, children may have symptoms like:
- Irritability and behavioral changes
- Altered daily activities and changes in sleep
- Decreased food intake
Treatment
- Goal: To improve the child's overall comfort rather than focusing on reducing body temperature.
- Remove excessive clothing
- Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
- AVOID treatment if rectal temperature falls below 100.4 F or patient is comfortable.
- Acetaminophen
- Available as infant's and children's Tylenol.
- Dose: 10-15 mg/Kg/dose every 4-6 hours as needed
- Do not exceed 5 doses in 24 hour or a maximum daily dose of 75 mg/Kg/day
- Ibuprofen
- Available as Infant's and children's ibuprofen and Motrin.
- For ages 6 months or older
- Dose: 5-10 mg/Kg/dose every 6-8 hours
- Maximum daily dose: 40 mg/Kg/dose up to 1200 mg or more under physician supervision.
- Both acetaminophen and ibuprofen are effective in managing fever, with ibuprofen slightly more effective than acetaminophen.
- Both are available as over-the-counter with dosing charts and dosing devices on the package.
- Before giving any medication to your child, contact their pediatrician.