Fevers are common. Usually, there is nothing to worry about when your child gets them since these are a normal response to viral infection and they can go away easily in several days. However, they can be a cause of concern to parents, especially those who are first-time moms and dads. It’s understandable because after all, fevers can also be an indicator of a serious illness or a symptom of a contagious disease.
Dealing with fevers can be confusing. You might be having a hard time determining if you should call a doctor or wondering how high is too high when it comes to your kid’s body temperature. To help you understand when you should get concerned about your child’s fever and head to a pediatric walk-in clinic to seek immediate medical attention, read the details below.
What Is a Fever?
Fever occurs when your child’s body temperature rises above the normal range. While body temperature varies from person to person and can differ by various factors, such as age and activity level, the normal body temperature is usually around 98.6°F (37°C).
What Should You Do When Your Child Gets Fever?
The first step you need to take when you notice that your child has a fever is to take their temperature using any thermometer. For a more accurate temperature reading, you may consider using a rectal thermometer for your infant or young child, while an oral thermometer is more ideal to use for your older kid. Make sure to use the device that is comfortable to use for you and your child.
When Should You Stay Calm?
Your child recently got vaccinated
Fever is the body’s normal reaction to an immunization. If your infant or child recently got vaccinated, then there is no need to worry if they get a mild fever. Expect the fever to last less than 48 hours.
Your child behaves normally
While they may seem more tired than usual, you don’t have to be concerned if your child gets a fever as long as they relatively behave normally. Keep an eye on your kid and observe if they are eating, drinking, or playing just like they usually do. If they exhibit their usual behaviour, then their fever can last less than five days.
Your child is three months to three years of age
Some body temperatures can be common even though they seem higher than the normal range. If your child is three months to three years of age and they have a temperature of up to 102.5°F-103°F, then you don’t necessarily need to be worried.
When Should You Seek Pediatric Urgent Care?
Your child is younger than three months of age
Fevers or low body temperatures in newborns and infants can be a sign of a serious illness. Make sure to seek urgent care for your kid if they are younger than three months of age and they have a fever.
You are anxious
As a parent, it is understandable to get concerned about your child’s health, especially if it’s your first time dealing with your kid’s fever. If you feel uncomfortable or anxious about your little one’s well-being, then you can call your pediatrician to check the condition of your child.
Conclusion
Being a first-time parent can cause you to get worried about your child’s health. It’s important that you are well-informed about dealing with fever as this can be an indicator of a major health problem. For your peace of mind, trust only experienced pediatric specialists.
If you need to see a children’s clinic in Brantford urgently, then turn only to Brantford Children's Clinic. You are assured that our licensed pediatric specialists can provide your children with top-quality healthcare. Book an appointment today!
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