A
fever is a body temperature that is higher than
normal. Your child's normal body temperature
varies with his age, general health, activity
level, the time of day and how much clothing he is
wearing. Everyone's temperature tends to be lower
early in the morning and higher between late
afternoon and early evening. Body temperature also
will be slightly higher with strenuous exercise.
Most pediatricians consider any thermometer
reading above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees
Celsius) a sign of a fever. This number may vary
depending on the method used for taking your
child's temperature. If you call your
pediatrician, say which method you used.
If your child has a fever, it is probably a
sign that her body is fighting an infection. When
your child becomes ill because of a virus or
bacteria, her body may respond by increasing body
temperature. It is important to remember that,
except in the case of heat stroke, fever itself is
not an illness — only a symptom of one. Fever
itself also is not a sign that your child needs an
antibiotic.
Many conditions, such as an ear infection, a
common cold, the flu, a urinary tract infection or
pneumonia, may cause a child to develop a fever.
In some cases, medication, injury, poison or an
extreme level of overactivity may produce a fever.
An environment that is too hot may result in heat
stroke, a potentially dangerous rise in body
temperature. It is important to look for the cause
of the fever.
Fevers are generally harmless and help your
child fight infection. They can be considered a
good sign that your child's immune system is
working and the body is trying to rid itself of
the infection.
If your child has a fever, her heart and
breathing rates naturally will speed up. You may
notice that your child feels warm. She may appear
flushed or perspire more than usual. Her body also
will require more fluids.
Some children feel fine when they have a fever.
However, most will have symptoms of the illness
that is causing the fever. Your child may have an
earache, a sore throat, a rash or a stomachache.
These signs can provide important clues as to the
cause of your child's fever.
Related Articles
