A child's normal body temperature is usually about 98.6 degrees. When your child's temperature creeps above this number, it's usually considered a fever. A low-grade fever isn't usually a problem in healthy children. A fever occurs when your child's body is fighting an infection. You don't necessarily need to treat a low-grade fever, according to the Children's Hospital Colorado. However, it's important to take steps to prevent dehydration and keep your child comfortable.
Boost Fluid Intake
Even with a low-grade fever, your child needs to boost fluid intake to prevent dehydration, recommends MayoClinic.com. If your child is under the age of 1, discuss using an electrolyte replacement solution. An older child can also use this type of solution or can drink juice, water or broth. If your child is suffering from nausea with her fever, stick with clear fluids.
Soak your Child
Give your child a soothing bath in lukewarm water. This will lower her fever and make her feel more comfortable. After the bath, dress your child in light clothing. Don't allow her to sleep with heavy blankets. Instead, provide a light blanket or sheet to keep your child's fever down. Also, keep the temperature in the room low.
Medication
Your pediatrician might not recommend using fever reducers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen with a low-grade fever, according to MayoClinic.com. The body produces a low-grade fever when fighting a virus. Reducing the fever with pain medications might allow the infection to thrive at the lower body temperature. For this reason, always discuss the use of fever reducers with your child's doctor. Also, never use aspirin in children. This medication is linked to a serious and potentially fatal disorder called Reye's syndrome.
When to Call a Doctor
Contact a doctor if your child is younger than 3 months old and has a fever of 100.4 or higher, recommends KidsHealth.org. This might be a sign of a more serious infection. Also, contact your doctor if your child is displaying signs of dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration include a dry and sticky mouth. A child that cries without tears is also dehydrated.
