Fevers and when to call a pediatrician?

It can be stressful when your child becomes sick and fevers can be really scary, especially for first time parents. Often times, it’s a sign that your child’s immune system is working and trying to fight off an infection. A fever is defined as a temperature greater than 100.4 F.
 
When a child has a fever they may feel warm, have a headache, flushed skin, chills and/or a higher heart rate than normal. 
 
If you child is 3 months or younger, we recommend checking their rectal temperature. If your child has a fever and they are under 1 month of age, please go to your nearest emergency room to have them evaluated. If they are between 1-3 months, please contact your child’s pediatrician. 
 
If your child is 6 months or older, fevers may be treated with either acetaminophen or ibuprofen at home; always making sure the they remain hydrated. 
 
If your child is otherwise acting normal, eating/drinking well, smiling and feeling better when the fever comes down; supportive care at home is appropriate most times. 
 
If you still have doubts, you should call a doctor when they have-
         A decrease in urine output and are refusing fluids
         Difficulty breathing
         Worsening vomiting or diarrhea
         Difficulty waking up
         A stiff neck
         Specific site of pain such as pain with urinating, earaches, severe headache, or sore throats
         A fever that lasts longer than 3 days
 
Children are resilient so most fevers will self-resolve within a few days while being given supportive care at home. But with any doubts or concerns, please contact your pediatrician. 

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