Fever in Children

Fever is not a disease but rather a symptom of an illness.

Fever is an elevation in body temperature in response to infection or other illness. When an infection or illness is detected, a part of the brain called the hypothalamus triggers the body to mount a fever to ward off invaders. This mobilizes white blood cells to surround and engulf bacteria, viruses and other toxins. Essentially, your body burns up the invaders. In most adults, a fever does its optimal work at 102 degrees, and then breaks.

For children under 8 years of age & especially for infants, the important thing is how your child is acting, not the thermometer reading.

Most people say 98.6ºF (37ºC) is normal, but kids tend to run slightly hotter than adults. You can think of anything between 97º & 99.4ºF (36º & 37.4ºC) as normal.

Very high fevers above 106°F (41°C) can harm the heart & brain. During most infections, the brain keeps body temperature at or below 104°F (40°C). So you don't need to be afraid that your child's temperature is going to continue to rise above that point.

Home Management of Fevers:

1. Do give your child lots to drink - Fever increases fluid loss & dehydration can drive up your child's temperature. Kids with fever often do not feel thirsty, or by the time they do, they're already dehydrated. So keep offering fluids.

2. Small, frequent sips are often best, especially if the child feels nauseated - If necessary, use a plastic medicine dropper to gently insert water into your child's mouth. The type that holds several ounces is best to use.

3. Dress lightly or bundle? - If your child looks pale, shivers, or complains of feeling chilled, bundle her in breathable fabrics so that sweat will evaporate. If she is comfortable & her fever is low, dress her snuggly & give warm liquids to assist the body's fever production. If she sweats & complains of heat, dress her lightly & let her throw off the covers.

4. Don't push food - People with fevers generally don't have much appetite. Let your child determine when & what she eats. Just bear in mind that consumption of sugary foods could delay the natural immune response.