Facts on Fevers

When your kid gets a fever it's scary. Most of the time it's just a viral infection, but nasty illness that start with a fever run through your head. Then you keep asking yourself, is this real cause to call the doctor?

Here are a few things to help:

You don't always have to treat it. If your kid has a fever, but is running around and drinking enough fluids and happy, consider skipping the meds. The main reasons for medication are to help with comfort and to avoid dehydration.

If you do treat it, ask your pediatrician about alternating medicines like tylenol and ibuprofen. While both are effective, it can be beneficial to alternate them, since each one works differently to bring down the fever. But only do it under the direction of your child's doctor.

Dehydration. If your child's temperature is elevated, make sure they are getting plenty of fluids. Juice, fruit, popsicles even ice cream. To figure out whether your child is dehydrated, ask yourself if they've been acting like their normal selves, or kind of lethargic. Also if their lips are dry, and for very young children, if they've had a wet diaper within the last six hours.

When to call the doctor:

(Age -Temperature)

Up to 3 months Fever of 100.4 F or greater

3 months to 2 years Fever over 103 F

Over 2 years Fever over 104 F

Get immediate medical attention if the child has any of these symptoms: lethargy, confusion, fast breathing, stiff neck or seizures.

I think the best way to go is by mothers intuition. If you are really worried, go get it checked just so you feel better.

Just so you are aware, as of September 28, 2009 there was a Children's Tylenol recall for products manufactured between April 2008 and June 2008. For a list of the recalls, and more information click here.

Share it!	Tweet it!	"Like" Or so she says... on Facebook!