Fever is a normal response to various conditions and nearly every child develops a fever at some point. 

Fever itself is not an illness, rather it is a symptom or a sign that your body is fighting an illness or an infection. It helps the body’s defence system to fight and eliminate the cause of the infection.

Fever in children is usually not dangerous and often clears up by itself. The challenge for the caregivers or parents is to know when to be concerned. 

Read on to understand more about fever, how to manage fever in children and when you need to consult a doctor.

What is fever?

Fever occurs when your child’s body temperature rises above the normal level [97.9°F (36.6°C) to 99°F (37.2°C)]. In most children, their body temperature may change a little bit during the course of the day. 

It's usually lower in the morning and a little higher in the evening and can also vary based on your kids' activities. Therefore slight variations in temperature can still be considered normal.

What causes fever in children?

  • Infection: Most fevers are caused by an infection or other illnesses. A fever helps the body fight infections by stimulating the body's natural defence mechanism. A rise in the body temperature makes it more difficult for disease-causing organisms such as bacteria or viruses to survive.

  • Vaccinations or immunizations: Babies and young children can sometimes develop a low-grade fever [99.5°F (37.5°C) to 100.3°F (38.3°C)] after vaccinations. 

  • Overdressing: Infants, especially newborns, may develop a fever if they're over-bundled or in a hot environment because their bodies are not well developed to regulate internal temperature as compared to that of older kids.

When is fever a sign of something serious?

Consult your doctor in the following cases:

  • If your child is 3 months old or younger and has a body temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.

  • If your child is over 3 months and has a fever of 102.2°F (39°C) or higher.

  • If your child has a chronic cough or breathing difficulty.

  • In case your child is unable to sip fluids or swallow food.

  • If the child is showing signs of dehydration (urinating less than usual, not having tears when crying, less alert and less active than usual).

  • If your child is immunocompromised (has a weakened immune system) for any reason.

  • If there is persistent diarrhoea or vomiting.

  • If your child is feeling drowsy or sluggish and has trouble waking up.

  • If you notice any skin discolouration such as blue lips, tongue, or nails.

  • If the infant's soft spot on the head seems to be bulging out or sunken in.

  • If there are signs such as stiffness in the neck, severe headache and difficulty moving.

  • In case of seizures (sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain). These seizures that occur during fever are called febrile seizures and are common in children when there is a sudden increase in their body temperature. 

What to do next?

You should take your child to a paediatrician or a child specialist for consultation. They will ensure that your child gets an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. 

Your doctor will prescribe fever medicines for your child. In case your child is suffering from diarrhoea, your doctor may also prescribe an oral rehydration solution (ORS) to replenish fluids and salt levels in your child’s body.

You will also be advised on home care measures to help your child come out of fever quickly. 

What are the home care tips to manage fever in children?

The following home care measures will help in managing fever in children:

  • Keep their clothing light. Dress your child in light clothing and cover them with a thin sheet or blanket.
    Overdressing and over bundling can prevent body heat from escaping and can cause the body temperature to rise.

  • Maintain an ideal room temperature. Make sure your child's bedroom is well-ventilated and has an ideal temperature that is not too hot or too cold. 

  • Avoid bathing your child during fever. You can skip baths for a day or two and instead wipe them with a wet towel so as to keep them comfortable. Don't try a sponge bath or placing your child in a cold bath.

  • Keep your child well hydrated. Give your child plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration because fever can make kids lose fluids more rapidly than usual. Some of the good options for your child include water, oral rehydration fluids and hot soups.  Avoid giving tea or coffee.

  • Allow your child to rest. Make sure your child gets plenty of rest. Staying in bed all day is not necessary, but they need adequate rest. You can skip school for a day or two until they feel better or else it can worsen their symptoms.

  • Keep their diet simple. Children tend to eat less, especially when they are sick. Don't force your child to eat under such circumstances. Stick to bland, easily digestible food until they feel better.

Mostly, fever in children can be managed with simple measures at home. However, in some cases, based on your child’s age and symptoms, you may have to consult your doctor for treatment. 


Disclaimer: This article is written by the Practitioner for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.