Pediatric Fever Treatment Doctor Q&A

A pediatric fever can be a stressful thing for parents to deal with. It can be difficult to know when it is time to act and when it is safe to wait and monitor the situation. A pediatric fever is generally defined as a body temperature of 100.4°F or higher. It is important to be aware of other symptoms that may accompany the fever, such as coughing, difficulty breathing, a rash, or changes in behavior.

A pediatric fever is a body temperature of 100.4ºF or higher in a child ages three months or younger. In older children, a temperature of 101ºF or higher signals a fever. Fever is not always an indication of a serious illness and can often be managed at home with medication and rest. However, parents should consult their healthcare provider if their child has a fever that lasts longer than 3 days, if the fever is accompanied by a rash, or if the child is difficult to wake up, appears lethargic or has a seizure.

Knowing what constitutes a pediatric fever, and understanding when to be concerned, is an important part of parenting. A temperature of 100.4°F or higher in children under three months old is considered a fever and needs to be addressed right away. For children between three months and three years old, a fever of 102°F or higher is something to worry about. Children over the age of three generally can have a fever of up to 103°F before it becomes an issue that needs medical attention.

While there are certain situations that require medical attention, there are many things parents can do to help bring down their child’s fever. This includes:

– Using a cold sponge — For bringing down a child’s fever, cold sponging is one of the most effective techniques. Submerge a clean, soft cloth in water and place it over the child’s head, armpits and abdomen. After three minutes, remove the cloth, wring it, soak it in cold water again, and repeat.

– Lukewarm baths — Another effective technique in bringing down a pediatric fever is giving the child a lukewarm bath; make sure they are always under parent supervision when in the bath.

– Giving or encouraging your child to drink water — A fever can dehydrate a child, so it is imperative to drink enough water in order to stay hydrated.

– Give them soup — Warm chicken soup or vegetable broth is effective at rehydrating the child, not only providing water and nutrients, but also electrolytes.

– Dress your child in layers — Dressing your child in layers allows them to stay comfortable; breathable clothes work as well.
 
If your little one has a fever, bring them to Columbia Clinic Urgent Care for top-rated treatment for pediatric fever! Call us today to book an appointment with our pediatric fever treatment doctor. We serve patients from Portland OR, PDX, Tigard OR, Milwaukie OR, Cedar Hills OR, Cedar Mill OR, Lake Oswego OR, Oak Grove OR, Vancouver WA, Aloha OR, Minnehaha WA, Gladstone OR, Tualatin OR, West Linn OR, Fairview OR, Oregon City OR.