A lingering fever in a child is typically caused by a virus. However, a bacterial infection or inflammatory condition might also be to blame, according to MayoClinic.com. If your child has a lingering fever, it's important to know when it's time to get help. You can also take steps to keep your feverish child comfortable and get her body temperature under control.
Fluids
If your child has a lingering fever, encourage her to drink fluids. Feverish children have an increased risk of developing dehydration. Especially, if the fever lasts for several days. Encourage your child to drink broth, water or diluted juice. You can also discuss giving your child an electrolyte replacement fluid with the doctor.
Fever Reducing Bath
A lukewarm soak might help you get your child's fever under control, according to MayoClinic.com. Run a lukewarm bath for your child. Sponge water over his torso, legs and arms to cool the body. Continue to do this for about five to 10 minutes. However, if your child starts to shiver, end the bath promptly. Shivering is bad for a fever. Muscle heat causes a fever to spike.
Cooling the Body
Another way to cool the body is by dressing your child in light clothing. This allows heat to escape from the body, helping your child's body temperature decrease. Avoid providing heavy blankets at night, even in the winter months. Instead, give your child a light blanket to sleep with. Keep the air temperature comfortable in the home. It shouldn't be too hot or too cool.
Medications
Before you reach for a fever reducer, talk with your doctor. Using a fever reducer, like acetaminophen in a child with a low-grade fever might prolong illness, reports MayoClinic.com. Typically, fever reducers are reserved for children with high fevers of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or more. Also, never give a child aspirin. This medication puts your child at risk for developing Reye's syndrome, a condition that can be fatal.
Fever Red Flags
There are times when a lingering fever requires medical attention. A child with a fever of 102 F or higher warrants a call to the doctor. For babies, a fever of 101 F or higher is a reason for concern, according to MayoClinic.com. Also, if your child's fever persists longer than three days, call your doctor. Your pediatrician will likely want to examine your child. For children ages 2 and under, call your pediatrician after two days of a fever. Other red flags include a child that isn't responsive or a child that refuses to eat or drink.
