Fever is one of the most common reasons parents worry about their children’s health. Seeing your child hot, flushed, and uncomfortable can be alarming. Many parents wonder: “Should I wait it out, or is it time to call the doctor?”
The truth is, fever itself isn’t always dangerous. It’s usually the body’s way of fighting off an infection. But sometimes, fever signals something more serious that needs medical care. Knowing when to take your child to a pediatrician is essential to keep them safe and comfortable.
In this article, we’ll explore what causes fever, how to check it correctly, when to worry, and what signs mean you should see a pediatrician right away.
What Is a Fever?
Fever is a rise in body temperature above the normal range. For most children, normal body temperature is about 98.6°F (37°C) when measured orally. A fever is generally considered:
- 100.4°F (38°C) or higher when taken with a rectal thermometer in infants
- 100°F (37.8°C) or higher orally in older children
Fever itself is not a disease. It’s a sign that the immune system is working to fight an infection, usually caused by viruses or bacteria.
Common Causes of Fever in Children
Most fevers in children are caused by viral infections, such as:
- Colds
- Flu
- Roseola
- Hand, foot, and mouth disease
Other causes can include:
- Bacterial infections (ear infections, strep throat, urinary tract infections)
- Teething (mild rise in temperature)
- Immunizations (temporary low-grade fever)
While many fevers go away on their own, sometimes they are a sign of something more serious.
How to Measure Your Child’s Temperature Correctly
Accurate measurement helps you decide what to do. Here’s how to check properly:
- Under 3 months old: Use a rectal thermometer for the most accurate reading.
- 3 months to 4 years: You can use a rectal, ear, or armpit thermometer.
- Over 4 years: Oral thermometers are generally reliable.
Always clean your thermometer before and after use, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
When Should You Call or Visit the Pediatrician?
Here’s when you should not wait and must contact your child’s doctor or seek medical care:
- Your baby is younger than 3 months and has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
- This is an emergency. Babies this young are more vulnerable to serious infections.
- This is an emergency. Babies this young are more vulnerable to serious infections.
- Your child is between 3 and 6 months and has a fever over 102°F (38.9°C).
- Especially if they are extra fussy, lethargic, or not drinking fluids.
- Especially if they are extra fussy, lethargic, or not drinking fluids.
- Your child is older than 6 months and has a fever over 104°F (40°C).
- The fever lasts more than 3–4 days.
- Your child has additional concerning symptoms, such as:
- Trouble breathing
- Severe headache
- Persistent vomiting
- Stiff neck
- Rash that doesn’t fade when pressed
- Extreme drowsiness or difficulty waking up
- Seizures
- Trouble breathing
If you see any of these signs, do not wait—seek medical help immediately.
When Is It Okay to Monitor at Home?
If your child is generally well-appearing, drinking fluids, and playing between fever spikes, you can often watch at home. For example:
- Mild fever (under 102°F) with no other serious symptoms.
- Your child is eating and drinking normally.
- They are responsive and smiling when comforted.
You can give acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) if advised by your pediatrician, but never give aspirin to children. Keep your child comfortable and dressed in light clothing. Offer fluids to prevent dehydration.
Myths About Fever
Many parents have heard alarming myths about fever. Let’s clear a few up:
- Myth: All fevers cause brain damage.
- Fact: Fever itself rarely causes harm. Only extremely high fevers (above 107°F) are dangerous, and these are very rare.
- Fact: Fever itself rarely causes harm. Only extremely high fevers (above 107°F) are dangerous, and these are very rare.
- Myth: If the fever doesn’t come down with medicine, it’s dangerous.
- Fact: Fever-reducing medicine helps comfort your child, but it doesn’t always bring temperature to normal. That’s okay.
- Fact: Fever-reducing medicine helps comfort your child, but it doesn’t always bring temperature to normal. That’s okay.
- Myth: A teething baby can have a high fever.
- Fact: Teething may cause a slight temperature increase but usually not above 100°F.
- Fact: Teething may cause a slight temperature increase but usually not above 100°F.
Understanding these facts can help you stay calm and make clear decisions.
Tips to Help a Child Feel Better at Home
While you monitor the fever, you can take steps to keep your child comfortable:
- Dress them lightly—avoid heavy blankets.
- Give plenty of fluids (breast milk, formula, water, or electrolyte drinks).
- Let them rest.
- Give fever-reducing medicine if recommended by your pediatrician.
- Use a cool washcloth on the forehead.
Trust your instincts—if your child seems very ill even if the temperature isn’t high, call your doctor.
Why Seeing a Pediatrician Matters
Sometimes, fever is the first sign of an infection that needs antibiotics or special treatment. For example, bacterial pneumonia, urinary tract infections, or meningitis can start with fever. Early evaluation by a pediatrician ensures your child gets the right diagnosis and care.
Even if your child does not need medication, your pediatrician can guide you on what to watch for and when to return.
Final Thoughts
Fever in children is common and often harmless, but it should never be ignored. The best approach is to:
- Measure temperature correctly.
- Watch for warning signs.
- Trust your instincts as a parent.
When in doubt, it’s always safer to call your pediatrician. They are your partner in keeping your child healthy and safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Should I wake my child to give fever medicine?
If your child is sleeping comfortably, you usually don’t need to wake them for medicine. Rest helps healing. However, if your pediatrician has given specific instructions, follow their advice.
2. Can teething cause a fever over 101°F?
Teething may cause a slight increase in temperature but usually does not cause high fever. If your baby has a temperature above 101°F, look for other causes.
3. When should I go to the emergency room for a fever?
Go to the ER if your child:
- Is under 3 months old with a fever
- Has difficulty breathing
- Has a seizure
- Is very drowsy or unresponsive
- Has a rash that doesn’t fade when presse
4. How long does a fever from a virus last?
Most viral fevers last 2 to 3 days, sometimes up to 5 days. If fever lasts longer than 4 days, contact your pediatrician.
5. What is the best way to take a temperature in a baby?
For babies under 3 months, use a rectal thermometer. This gives the most accurate reading.
If you’re ever uncertain about your child’s fever, don’t hesitate to call your pediatrician for advice. It’s always better to ask than to worry. Your child’s health is worth it.
