This blog is part of a three-part series on childhood fevers. In this series, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from understanding when a fever requires medical attention to learning about common causes and how to provide comfort at home.
A child’s fever can be an alarming experience for any parent. Is it just something minor, or the sign of something more serious? Especially while juggling a number of other responsibilities, it can be difficult to know when a trip to the pediatrician is really necessary. That's why it’s important to know when a fever requires medical attention and when it can be managed at home.
At Capital Area Pediatrics, we're proud to be a trusted provider of pediatric care for families across Northern Virginia. Our experienced team understands the worries parents face and is here to provide expert guidance and compassionate care when your child needs it most. With five convenient locations, self-scheduled sick visits, and a commitment to personalized care, we make it easy to address any health concern. Schedule an appointment today and rest assured that your child is in capable, caring hands.
Read on to learn the key signs that it’s time to visit your pediatrician for a fever.
What Is a Fever in Children?
A fever is defined as a temporary increase in body temperature, and it often signals that the body is fighting off an illness or infection. While a normal body temperature varies somewhat from child to child, a reading above 100.4°F is generally considered a fever.
Fevers are a common symptom in children that can be caused by a variety of factors. Typically, however, they're the result of a viral or bacterial infection. Common illnesses that can cause a fever include colds, flu, ear infections, and strep throat.
Signs of a Fever
When your child has a fever, they may display symptoms like:
- Feeling warm to the touch
- Sweating or chills
- Fatigue or lack of energy
- Decreased appetite
- Irritability or general discomfort
While these symptoms are usually not cause for alarm, they indicate your child’s immune system is working to fight off an underlying issue.
When Parents Should Schedule a Sick Visit
Although fevers are typically harmless and can often be managed at home, there are some situations where medical attention is needed as soon as possible. Call or schedule an appointment with us if any of these criteria fit:
- High fever in infants under one year of age.
- High fever in children over one-year-old that is accompanied by symptoms like vomiting, rash, confusion, headache, or a stiff neck.
- High fever that persists for more than three consecutive days.
- Widespread rash.
- Difficulty breathing or labored breathing.
- Frequent or repeated vomiting.
- Severe or excessive diarrhea.
- Any unusual symptom lasting more than three days.
- Ongoing pain, such as a stomachache, sore throat, headache, or earache.
- Signs of dehydration, including poor fluid intake, decreased urine output, or extreme lethargy.
When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and call your CAP pediatrician. Our team can provide guidance and help determine the best course of action for your child’s specific situation.
When to Treat a Fever at Home
As mentioned, a fever can typically* be safely managed at home with proper care and monitoring. However, it is still good to know when to reach out for guidance.
Signs that a fever that can be managed at home include:
- If Your Child is Comfortable: If your child is eating, drinking, playing, and doesn’t seem overly distressed, the fever is most likely not cause for concern.
- Mild Fevers: If your child's temperature is below 102°F and they are often okay to monitor for a day or two before calling the doctor.
- Other Manageable Illnesses: If your child has a mild cold but is responsive and alert, focus on keeping them comfortable while keeping your doctor informed.
- Improvement Over Time: Fevers caused by viral infections can last up to five days, but they should gradually decrease over that time period. If the fever continues to rise and does not improve after a day or two, give us a call.
- Recent Immunizations: Fever is a common side effect of certain vaccinations and can last for a day or two. If your child recently received a vaccine and is otherwise comfortable, there's usually no need to worry.
*Important Note: All infants 4 weeks and younger should always be seen by their pediatrician if they’re experiencing a fever.
Remember, every child is different, and their overall health should be considered when deciding how to manage their fever. If you're on the fence, don't hesitate to reach out to us! Our team is always here to provide guidance and support.
Tips for Managing Your Child's Fever
If your child's fever falls into the 'manageable at home' category, here are some tips for keeping them comfortable and helping their body fight off an infection:
- Monitor Their Temperature: Take your child's temperature regularly and keep track of the readings. This will help you determine if their fever is improving or worsening.
- Keep Them Hydrated: Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. For older children, offer water, clear soups, or electrolyte solutions. For infants, this includes breast milk or formula.
- Dress Them Comfortably: Avoid bundling up or overdressing your child. Dress them in lightweight clothing, in easy-to-remove layers, and use a light blanket if they have chills.
- Use Over-the-Counter Medications Sparingly: Medications like Acetaminophen/Tylenol or Ibuprofen/Advil/Motrin (only for children 6 months and older) can lower a fever and make your child more comfortable. However, it's crucial to follow the correct dosage for their age and weight, which also means monitoring how often the medication is given. If you're not sure, check our resources on common doses.
- Encourage Rest: Make sure your child is getting enough rest to allow their body to recover and fight off the illness.
Most importantly, trust your instincts. No one knows your child better than you, and if something doesn’t feel right, it’s always okay to seek advice.
Trust Your Judgment—And Your Pediatrician
Fevers can be concerning, but they are often a sign that your child’s body is fighting off illness effectively. By understanding the symptoms that require immediate attention, you can take control of the situation with confidence and care.
When you’re uncertain, don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and call Capital Area Pediatrics at (703) 359-5100 or schedule a sick visit. Our dedicated team of pediatricians is always here to support you and your child’s health.
