If you have a child, then you have had a child with a fever at some point. Every kid will eventually come down with a fever, and most of the time they are no big deal or can even be a good thing from a health standpoint because it means the body is working to fight off an infection. However, when your child is suffering from the effects of a fever, it can be difficult to justify when to just observe and when to seek treatment from a pediatric urgent care provider like Central Jersey Urgent Care of Browns Mills.
Why Do We Get Fevers?
Having a fever is a sign that the body’s internal temperature is higher than normal or above 98.6 degrees. A child’s body temperature can fluctuate throughout the day due to sleeping, eating, and playing. However, a fever is when the body increases the temperature to kill germs, and it is a natural part of the immune system’s defense.
When Should You Worry About a Fever?
An otherwise healthy child that has a temperature lower than 102 degrees, likely does not need medical treatment unless they also have other worrying symptoms. A fever higher than 102 degrees should be assessed by a healthcare provider at a pediatric urgent care or by the child’s primary physician. There is likely no immediate danger if the child is still playing, eating, and drinking like normal.
When Is a Fever an Emergency?
The exact temperature of fever that should raise a serious alarm depends on the age and health of the child, but if your child has even a low-grade fever with any of the following symptoms you need to seek emergency care:
- Inconsolable crying
- Extreme uncharacteristic irritability
- Trouble maintaining consciousness
- Purple bruise-like spots that weren’t present before the fever
- Blue lips or tongue
- Refusing or unable to move
- Difficulty breathing
How Can I Care for My Child With a Fever?
You should always follow your doctor’s instructions on caring for your child, especially regarding dosing of medication. There are things you can do at home to help ease your child’s distress. Make sure to provide plenty of liquids, but avoid drinks with caffeine as they can cause dehydration. Also, a child with a fever should be kept home from school or daycare. Your provider at the urgent pediatric care will let you know when your child is safe to return to their normal routine.