Frequently Asked Questions

Fever
Fever is the most common reason that parents call the pediatrician's office

When should parents worry about fever?
A temperature should not be considered a fever until it reaches 100.4 degrees rectally. Too often normal temperature variations during the day are misinterpreted as abnormal. Temperature variations can also be caused by extra clothing or exercise within the previous half hour.

What causes fever?
Fever in children is usually caused by a viral illness as a normal response to an infection. Fever by itself is not dangerous (even over 104 degrees F). In fact, fever is useful in fighting infection, and usually lasts 2 to 3 days. Parents sometimes rely too much on the degree of the fever to gauge the illness of the child. If the child has a high fever but looks and acts fine, then don't worry about the fever. However if there is only a low grade fever, but the child looks and acts very sick, then he/she is actually more ill than the fever indicates. Trust your instincts.

What is the best way to take my child's temperature?
The most accurate temperature will be obtained via a rectal thermometer reading, especially in young babies. Pacifier thermometers are strongly influenced by the temperature of food/drinks the child recently had, whether they can keep their mouth closed (as with crying or nasal congestion). Axillary (under the arm) temperatures are inaccurate, and dependent on how well the arm is held against the body. The newer ear thermometers are acceptable for older children, but give inconsistent results with young baby's ears. Oral thermometer readings are acceptable in older children who are able to keep their mouth closed, did not have any recent how or cold drinks, and who can keep the thermometer tip beneath their tongue.

What can I do to treat my child's fever?
There are two major drugs, acetaminophen (Tylenol) and Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) Acetaminophen should not be used in children under 2 months of age, and ibuprofen should not be used under 6 months of age. Acetaminophen is less likely to cause an allergic reaction or stomach upset and lasts about 4 hours. .Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) is also available for fever and pain, but consider trying it only after acetaminophen. Ibuprofen can work better in some cases for higher fevers and more significant pain, and last about 6 to 8 hours. Use acetaminophen for a fever above 102 degrees F, if the child is uncomfortable, or a fever at bedtime. Never give aspirin to children and adolescents due to risk of Reye syndrome. Please refer to the Don't Panic Packet for dosing, other measures to help with fever, and when to call the office.