The average fever in a child ranges from 101 to 103.5 degrees Fahrenheit. While a fever can make your child uncomfortable and miserable, it is a sign that her body is doing its job. To fight off an illness or infection, the body raises its own core temperature. In some instances, your child's fever should be left alone to support her body's immune system. However, reducing your child's fever may be necessary in other cases, and can make her feel much better.
Low-Grade Fever
A low-grade fever is considered to be between 99 to 100.9 degrees Fahrenheit. Typical causes of a low-grade fever could be a small cold. or even teething. According to the Ask Dr. Sears website, a low-grade fever should not be treated. A low-grade fever means your child's body is doing what it should. Instead, do what you can to make your child as comfortable as possible.
Medications
Medication is one option to reduce a fever. You should consult a pediatrician ahead of time about appropriate fever medications for your child. Acetaminophen is an effective fever reducer that may also reduce pain. It can be given every four hours at an appropriate dosage for your child's age. Ibuprofen is another option that works more effectively for higher fevers. It also lasts longer and has even been approved for 2-month-old infants.
Bath
A lukewarm bath may reduce your child's temperature. Be careful not to put your child into a cold bath, as this can cause shivering. Shivering warms the body up, which of course is counterproductive to reducing fever. You can also give your child a sponge bath with lukewarm water. A sponge bath or a lukewarm bath may enhance the benefits of fever-reducing medications, as well.
Clothes
Your child may have chills as well as fever. Regardless of the chills, never bundle your child up in a blanket, or dress him in extra clothes. Be sure the temperature of the room he is sleeping in is comfortable. The Medline Plus website suggests dressing your child in light clothing and covering him with a light blanket or sheet.
Warnings
A fever warrants immediate medical attention when your child's temperature is 104 degrees F and does not come down to at least 102 degrees with treatment. Call the doctor immediately if your child is limp or has stiff muscles, particularly in the neck, or is extremely irritable. A baby under 6 weeks old with a fever over 101 degrees F should be taken to the emergency room. If your baby is between 7 weeks to 3 months old with a fever over 101 degrees F, call your doctor.
