An unexplained high fever in children is alarming for parents. Younger children might have difficulty explaining symptoms, making it difficult to understand what's wrong. However, a high fever is the body's way of saying something out of the ordinary is occurring in the body. A viral infection or bacteria infection might be to blame. Knowing how to keep your child comfortable during a high fever can help. It's also important to know when it's time to seek medical attention.
Sponge Bath
Giving your child a sponge bath with lukewarm water can help decrease her high fever, according to MayoClinic.com. Allow your child to soak, sponging water on her torso, legs and arms to cool the body. Watch your child for shivering. Shivering causes shaking muscles, which generates heat. This can make your child's fever even higher.
Fluids
A child with a high, unexplained fever is at risk for dehydration, according to MayoClinic.com. Avoid dehydration by offering your child fluids frequently such as broth, diluted juice or water. You can also offer an electrolyte replacement solution. This solution is available at most drugstores.
Fever Reducers
Consult your pediatrician about using a fever reducer if your child has a fever of 102 degrees or higher. Although doctors don't usually recommend fever reducers for low-grade fevers, your doctor might recommend it for a high fever. Common fever reducers for children are acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Use as directed by your pediatrician. Accidental overdose is serious, causing kidney damage or even death. Never offer your feverish child aspirin. This medication is linked to Reye's syndrome.
Medical Help
If your child's fever lasts longer than three days, call your child's pediatrician. Your doctor will need to evaluate your child to determine the cause of the unexplained fever. For children under the age of two, contact a doctor after two days, recommends MayoClinic.com. Also, if your child has a fever of 102 degrees or higher, seek medical advice. For children under the age of 3 months, a fever of 101 degrees or higher is a reason to call the doctor.
A child who is listless or irritable is also a red flag. A severe headache, stomach ache or other symptoms that cause your child extreme pain are also big reasons to get medical attention.
