child fever lifestyle tips for patients

Overview

A fever is a body temperature that is higher than normal. It is usually a sign that the body is fighting an infection. In children, a temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or above is generally considered a fever.

Yes, fever is very common in childhood. Most children will have at least one fever before age 5.

Fevers can affect any child, but they are most common in infants, toddlers, and preschool children. They are also more frequent after some vaccines.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Higher skin temperature (forehead, back, or tummy)
• Feeling hot, then chilly or shivering
• Sweating
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Tiredness or weakness

Symptoms in children

• Fussy, irritable, or crying more than usual
• Not wanting to eat or drink
• Hot, flushed cheeks
• Clingy and wanting more cuddles
• Sleeping more or having trouble sleeping

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections (the most common cause, including colds and flu)
• Bacterial infections (such as ear infections or urinary tract infections)
• Stomach bugs (gastroenteritis)
• Inflammation from some immunisations
• Occasionally, more serious conditions like meningitis or sepsis require urgent care

Risk factors

• Being under 3 months old
• Having a weakened immune system
• Not being up to date with childhood vaccines
• Being in close contact with someone who has an infectious illness

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your child is under 3 months and has a temperature over 38°C (100.4°F)
• If the fever lasts longer than 3 days (or more than 24 hours in a baby under 2 years)
• If your child is not eating, drinking, or getting wet nappies as usual
• If the fever is accompanied by difficulty breathing, a stiff neck, or a purple-red rash
• If your child seems very unwell or your instincts say something is wrong

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you are worried and are not sure what to do
• If the fever comes and goes over several days
• If your child has a long-term health condition
• If you need advice on giving your child medicine

Diagnosis

A fever is not a disease, so there is no specific test for it. A doctor or nurse will ask about your child's symptoms, take a temperature, and check for signs of infection.

Tests that may be done

• No tests may be needed
• Urine test if a urinary tract infection is suspected
• Blood tests to look for signs of infection
• Throat swab or chest X-ray if a chest or throat infection is suspected
• Rarely, a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) if the doctor is concerned about meningitis

What to expect at your appointment

A doctor will likely examine your child and may arrange tests if needed. You should be able to go home the same day. They will tell you what to watch for and when to come back.

Treatment

Treatment aims to keep your child comfortable while their body fights the infection. You do not always need to reduce a fever — it is a normal sign of the immune system working. Most fevers go away in a few days.

Self-care at home

• Give extra fluids: offer milk, water, or clear soups little and often
• Dress your child in light clothes and keep the room cool but not cold
• Rest is good, but do not force it
• Use a lukewarm flannel to soothe your child if they feel hot
• Never use ice baths or cold sponging
• Do not check the temperature too often — once or twice a day is enough unless your child looks worse

Medical treatments

If a doctor decides that medicine is needed to lower the fever or relieve pain, they will recommend the right one for your child's age and weight. Always follow the dose and timing on the label or from the doctor. Never give a child a medicine meant for an adult. Do not give more than one medicine that contains the same ingredient without checking with a professional.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not part of fever treatment.

Living with this condition

During a fever, your child needs plenty of rest and fluids. You can still offer normal foods if they want them, but do not worry if appetite is low for a day or two. Watch them closely for any of the worrying signs listed earlier and contact a healthcare professional if you are concerned.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep your child home from nursery or school until the fever has gone and they feel well again
• Wash hands regularly, especially after nappy changes or wiping noses
• Offer small drinks frequently
• Use a light blanket while sleeping
• Avoid taking your child to crowded places until they have recovered

Diet and exercise

There is no special fever diet, but fluids are vital. Offer water, milk, or clear soups. Exercise is not needed — let your child rest. Once the fever has settled and they feel back to normal, they can slowly return to normal activities.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Caring for a sick child can be exhausting and stressful for parents. It is normal to feel anxious. Talk to your partner, a friend, or your health visitor. If you need urgent advice, call your local out-of-hours service. Remember, you are doing a great job and it is okay to ask for help.

Prevention

You cannot prevent every fever, because infections from viruses and bacteria are common in childhood. But you can reduce the number of infections by encouraging regular hand washing, cleaning toys and surfaces, and avoiding known sick contacts.

Vaccines

Childhood vaccines protect against several infections that cause fever, such as measles, mumps, rubella, and flu. Check with your health service that your child's routine vaccinations are up to date.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for fever itself. Regular checkups for your child's growth and development will be carried out by your health visitor or clinic.

Complications

If left untreated

• Dehydration from not taking in enough fluids
• Febrile convulsions (a fit during a sudden rise in temperature — this is frightening but most children recover completely)
• A undetected serious infection such as pneumonia or meningitis if the cause is not treated early

Long-term outlook

Nearly all fevers in children settle on their own within 2 to 3 days. With loving care and the right support, your child will usually return to full health with no lasting problems. Even when a fever is high, the overall outcome for healthy children is very good.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.