A body temperature higher than 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit is referred to as a fever. When this occurs, your child's body is fighting a virus or infection. Your child might have other symptoms including sweating, headache, muscle aches and weakness. Usually a fever will get better within a few days, according to Mayo Clinic. However, there are times when a child needs medical attention.
Hallucinations or Seizures
Take your child to the hospital if she is suffering from hallucinations or fever-induced seizures, recommends Mayo Clinic. Although uncommon, these symptoms occur in a small number of children under the age of 5 years. If your child does have a seizure, move your child to her side or stomach. Move sharp objects away from the child and don't try and stop the seizure. Take your child to the hospital after the seizure has ended. However, if the seizure lasts longer than 10 minutes, contact 911.
Infants and Children under 3
Seek medical attention for newborns and infants with a fever that reaches 100.4 or higher, advises KidsHealth. Fever in young babies might be a sign of a more serious infection. Also, visit the hospital if your child is 3 months to 3 years of age and has a fever higher than 102.2 or higher, recommends the Children's Hospital Colorado.
Children over Age 3
Watch your child's behavior if he is over the age of 3 to determine if you need to visit the hospital. A fever higher than 102.2 degrees in a child who isn't drinking or eating well and appears pale is reason to contact your doctor. Your doctor will discuss your child's symptoms and determine if emergency medical care is needed.
Also seek emergency care if your child is breathing faster than normal or having difficultly breathing. This type of behavior accompanied by a fever might indicate a more serious infection.
Reducing Fever and Prevention
Ask your child's doctor about administering acetaminophen or ibuprofen to your child to reduce his fever. Follow your doctor's instructions for using these products. Also, a child with a fever might also suffer from dehydration -- encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids. If he suffers from nausea, stick to clear fluids, like water.
Prevent future illness and fever in your child by encouraging frequent hand washing. Remind her to wash hands before eating, after playing and after using the restroom.
