child fever with fever

Overview

A fever is when the body's temperature goes higher than normal, usually above 38°C (100.4°F). In children, it is a sign that the body's immune system is fighting an infection. The fever itself is not an illness but a symptom of something else going on inside the body.

Yes, fever is one of the most common reasons parents take children to see a doctor. Most children will have several fevers during their early years.

Children of all ages can get a fever, especially those under 5. Infants younger than 3 months need special attention because their immune systems are still developing.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• High temperature, above 38°C (100.4°F)
• Feeling hot to the touch, especially on the forehead, back, or tummy
• Flushed cheeks
• Sweating or shivering

Symptoms in children

• Being fussy or irritable
• Sleepy or less active than usual
• Poor appetite or drinking less
• Headache or body aches
• A rash
• Febrile seizure (a fit with shaking) – very scary but usually harmless

Causes

Main causes

• Viral infections like colds, flu, or roseola
• Bacterial infections like ear infections, throat infections, or urinary tract infections
• Immunisations (vaccines)
• Teething – can cause a slight rise in temperature, but not usually a true fever
• Overdressing or being in a very hot room

Risk factors

• Being under 2 years old
• Recent vaccination
• Exposure to other sick children or adults
• Not being fully vaccinated against preventable diseases

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Your baby is under 3 months with any fever
• The fever is very high and your child seems limp, pale, or very unwell
• Your child has a seizure or difficulty breathing
• You see a rash that doesn't fade
• Your child cannot keep liquids down or shows signs of dehydration

Book a routine appointment if:

• Fever lasts more than 3 days
• Your child is older than 3 months but still looks very uncomfortable or is refusing to drink
• You are unsure about what to do or are worried

Diagnosis

A doctor will take your child's temperature and ask about other symptoms like coughing, ear pain, or rash. They will also do a physical exam to look for signs of infection.

Tests that may be done

• Urine test to check for a urinary tract infection
• Blood test to look for signs of infection or inflammation
• Chest X-ray if a lung infection is suspected

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will explain what they think is causing the fever and give you advice on home care. They may recommend medicine to help lower the fever and reduce discomfort. If a bacterial infection is found, they may prescribe antibiotics.

Treatment

The main goal is to keep your child comfortable and well hydrated. Treat the child, not just the number on the thermometer. Most fevers don't need medicine unless the child is uncomfortable.

Self-care at home

• Give plenty of fluids like water, milk, or oral rehydration solution
• Dress your child in light clothing and keep the room at a comfortable temperature
• Let your child rest as much as they want
• Use a damp cloth on the forehead if it helps, but avoid cold baths
• Encourage small, frequent drinks if your child vomits

Medical treatments

A healthcare provider may recommend a children's fever reducer such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, but only in the correct dose for your child's age and weight. Always follow the instructions from your doctor or pharmacist. Never give aspirin to a child, as it can cause a rare but serious illness.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not needed for a simple fever. It may be needed only if the fever is caused by a condition like an infected appendix or a severe ear infection, but that is rare.

Living with this condition

While your child has a fever, check their temperature occasionally, watch how they are behaving, and keep pushing fluids. At night, make sure they are not overdressed. Once the fever breaks, your child may be tired and need extra rest.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep the sleeping space comfortable, not too hot or cold
• Encourage handwashing to prevent spreading infections
• Keep your child home from school or day care until they feel better and are fever-free for 24 hours without medicine

Diet and exercise

Your child may not feel like eating much. That's okay. Offer light foods like soup, toast, or bananas if they are hungry. Sports and heavy exercise should wait until they feel completely better.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Caring for a sick child can be stressful and exhausting. It's normal to feel worried. Remember to take breaks, share care with another adult, and be kind to yourself.

Prevention

You can't prevent all fevers, but you can reduce the spread of infections that cause them. Good handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and keeping your child away from sick people are important steps.

Vaccines

Keep your child's vaccinations up to date. Vaccines help protect against serious illnesses like measles, mumps, and chickenpox, which can cause high fevers.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for fevers. Regular health checks with your child's doctor help make sure they are growing well and are up to date on vaccines.

Complications

If left untreated

• Most fevers go away on their own without any treatment. But if the fever is caused by a bacterial infection, such as a urinary tract infection or pneumonia, not treating it could lead to a more serious illness.
• Febrile seizures can happen with a sudden high fever. They look scary but almost never cause long-term harm.
• Dehydration is a possible complication if your child doesn't drink enough fluids.

Long-term outlook

The outlook for a child with a fever is very good. Fevers are a natural part of most childhood infections, and your child's body knows how to fight them off. With rest, fluids, and love, most children recover completely within a few days.

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