What Temper Should I Take My Child to Hospital?
Fevers can be frightening, but they usually don’t require urgent medical care. A fever is an indication that your body is working normally to fight off infection. However, in some cases a fever can be a sign of an underlying problem that needs immediate medical attention.
Fevers should be taken seriously for infants and young children (less than 3 months old). They may have a temperature that is higher than 100.4 degF or they have a fever that hasn’t gone down with treatment.
A fever can be a sign of a serious illness in babies and children, especially those with immune system problems or those who take certain medications. They also need medical care if they have trouble breathing, a seizure or are hard to wake up.
Generally, children can recover from a fever on their own with rest and fluids, but it’s important to watch their behavior carefully to determine when they need emergency care.
When a child is acting normally, taking in fluids and not waking up, a temperature of 103 degrees is probably fine. But if your child is lethargic, they’re not eating or drinking and have a fever of 104 degrees, then you should call your pediatrician for an appointment.
The most accurate way to measure a baby’s temperature is by using a thermometer that is used rectally, but you can also use one that swipes across the forehead. Depending on the type of thermometer you use, your baby’s temperature will be different, so be sure to check it regularly throughout the day.
It’s not a good idea to bundle your baby in layers of clothing and blankets, which can trap heat. Instead, allow their body to cool by wearing light-weight clothing and allowing the body’s heat to dissipate from the skin.
You can also sponge your child with tepid water, which will help the body stay comfortable and avoid dehydration. But don’t sponge with cold water or alcohol, as it can cause narrowing of blood vessels that bring heat to the skin, which can make the body retain more heat.
If your child has a high temperature, you can call their doctor and ask them to prescribe medication to lower the temperature. If they can’t give you a prescription for a fever reducer, then it’s time to go to the hospital or emergency department.
Thermometers vary widely in accuracy, so be sure to take your baby’s temperature rectally and then double check it again under the armpit. A digital rectal thermometer is more precise than other types.
Getting to the doctor as soon as possible is vital for babies who are sick and are at risk of a severe complication, such as Reye syndrome. It’s also helpful for older kids who have a fever, but who are not acting like they are sick.
It can be a tough decision for parents to know when to take their child to the emergency room. The decision is based on several factors, such as your child’s age and symptoms. A trip to the ER can be costly and stressful for both you and your child, and it can result in an unnecessary delay in getting your child well again.
