Fevers: What Parents Should Know

Everything About Fevers

Fever can cause alarm for even seasoned parents. Though a fever itself doesn’t generally cause harm, it can be a sign of something bigger going on in your child, like an infection or a virus.

When your child has a fever, as a parent, you just want them to feel better. Keep them hydrated with water or an electrolyte drink like Pedialyte.

Then you’ll probably reach for acetaminophen (Tylenol, Fever-All) to help bring down the fever. Motrin is good for fever control if your child is above 6 months of age. Here are a few tips to remember:

1. If your child is under 2 years old, talk to a pediatrician first.
2. If your child is over 2 years old, follow the instructions on the bottle.
3. Always read the directions and dosage, even if you have given the medication to your child before.
4. Check the expiration date on the bottle before giving the medicine to your child. Throw out expired medicine immediately.
5. Always keep medicine out of children’s reach.

Be aware that, while acetaminophen used to be available in both infants’ and children’s versions, in recent years the infants’ version is no longer made. That means it is extra important to check the directions and dosage before giving the children’s medicine to your child.

Any alternate medicine options, like peppermint oil for example, can be used in addition to these things, but should not replace hydration, acetaminophen, and the pediatrician’s directions. Also, remember that natural remedies can have their own side effects.

How do you know it’s time to call a pediatrician? If your infant has a fever above 100.4, take them to the doctor immediately. Children (older than infants) with a temperature of 101 or higher should see the doctor.

If your child’s fever continues, or if it doesn’t go down after giving acetaminophen, call a pediatrician or visit one of our pediatric urgent care facilities.