Fever
What causes fever?
Most fevers are caused by infections. Some infections are serious and need to
be cared for in the hospital.
Should I treat my child's fever?
It is reasonable to treat your child's fever if:
- He is very uncomfortable when the fever is high
- He is prone to seizures (convulsions) with high fever
- He will not drink well when the fever is high.
How do I treat a fever?
- Give your child Tylenol®/Tempra®/Panadol® liquid as directed. Note: It takes
60 to 90 minutes for these medicines to reduce fever.
- Dress your child very lightly. Do not bundle or cover him with a blanket.
- Give him lots of cool clear liquids to drink.
When should I call my child's doctor?
Contact your child's doctor:
- If he seems dried out and has no tears with crying or no urine for 6 hours or
more.
- If he is always “whiny” and never wants to play — not even for a short while
when the temperature comes down.
- If he starts vomiting, or seems to have pain when picked up, or seems to be breathing
hard.
- If he develops a rash.
- If his breathing appears labored.
- If he is and infant less than 12 weeks of age.
- If he is an infant less than 15 months of age and his temperature exceeds 103.5oF.
- If he is any pain.
- If he is an infant and there is no clear explanation for the fever — no signs
of a cold, no recent immunization, etc.
Children's Healthcare of Atlanta provides information on fever as a guideline. It is not intended to replace
consultation with your physician. Always consult your child's doctor or other
health care provider whenever your child may require diagnosis or treatment.
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