A low-grade fever and fatigue is typically a viral infection. Your child's fever is considered "low grade" when it's between 99 and 101 degrees Fahrenheit. Once it's higher than 101, it's a high fever. However, since toddlers can't always communicate their symptoms, it's important to watch your child closely. Knowing potential red flags will help you determine when it's time to call the doctor. There's also a few strategies for keeping your toddler comfortable.
Fluids
Even with a low-grade fever, it's important to encourage your toddler to drink fluids. She's at risk for dehydration with a fever. Offer diluted juice, water and broth. Also, discuss the use of an electrolyte replacement solution with your child's doctor. If your child refuses to drink or eat, contact her pediatrician.
Sponge Bath
Ease your toddler's discomfort by offering a lukewarm sponge bath. Soaking will help reduce her temperature during a fever. Watch your child. If she starts to shake, end the bath. Shivering generates muscle heat, resulting in a higher fever, according to MayoClinic.com. Dress your toddler in cool clothing and allow her to sleep with a light blanket. Don't put warm comforters on your child during evening hours.
Resting
During a low-grade fever, your toddler won't feel well. Encourage her to take cues from her body and rest. Provide quiet activities, like reading or playing board games. When a toddler is active during a low-grade fever, it generates body heat. This might cause a feverish child to have a temperature spike.
Fever Reducers
Don't give your toddler a fever reducer, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, without discussing it with your doctor. For a low-grade fever, your doctor might not recommend using these medications. Taking a fever reducer might even prolong a child's illness, when taken with a low-grade fever. If your doctor recommends a fever reducer, administer as directed. Never offer a toddler aspirin, a medication linked to Reye's syndrome, a potentially fatal illness.
Red Flags
Watch how your child acts with a low-grade fever. If your toddler is irritable, listless or has a severe stomach ache, contact her doctor, recommends MayoClinic.com. Also, if your toddler's low-grade fever persists longer than two days, talk with your pediatrician. She might want to examine your toddler to diagnosis the illness.
