Fever

Tara Doman, MDFrom the desk of Tara Doman, MDFlu and cold season has arrived!  One of the most common symptoms of illness in children is fever.  It can also be one of the scariest symptoms for parents.  If your child is less than 3 months of age and has a fever of 100.4 or higher (under the arm or rectally), you should contact our office right away.   For children over the age of 3 months, here are a few fever facts.Fever is a symptom of illness, not a disease itself.The height of the fever does not correlate to the severity of the illness.  Just because a child has a higher fever, does not mean that they are more ill than a child with a lower fever.Fevers do not cause brain damage.There is not a certain level of fever that requires a trip to the emergency room.  When we evaluate a child with a fever, we are more concerned with how the child is doing overall.  A child who is refusing to eat or drink, is very drowsy or confused, has a rash with a fever, or has difficulty breathing should be evaluated right away.  A child who is playful, eating and drinking with a fever of 104 can be safely monitored at home.Fever reducing medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, are very effective at treating a fever but may not eliminate it. When you measure a child’s fever, it is best to use a thermometer.   A child may feel warm to the touch without actually having a true fever.   When you do measure the temper...
Source: Pediatric Health Associates - Category: Pediatrics Tags: Healthy Habits Source Type: news