Fevers in babies what is high

You should also see a GP if your child: looks sicker than before — for example, your child is more pale, lethargic and weak has some trouble breathing is drowsy seems mildly dehydrated, refuses to drink or is weeing less often complains of a stiff neck, a mild headache or light hurting their eyes vomits or has diarrhoea suffers mild pain or discomfort.

Fever treatment Fever in itself is rarely harmful. Generally, children handle fever well. If your child has a fever, the most important thing is to make sure your child is drinking enough to avoid dehydration : If your breastfed child is younger than six months, offer extra breastfeeds. If your formula-fed child is younger than six months, offer the usual amount of formula. If your baby is older than six months, keep breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. You can also offer your child clear fluids like water.

You can buy these from pharmacies and many supermarkets. You might need to give your child smaller amounts of fluid, but more often. Here are some other things you can do to make sure your child is comfortable: Dress your child in light clothing. How high is too high? Should I call the doctor immediately? Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. It is most accurate to use a rectal thermometer for infants and young children.

Lim says. Only a few common ones will be listed. Viral Infections. Colds, flu and other viral infections are the most common cause. Fever may be the only symptom for the first 24 hours. The start of viral symptoms runny nose, cough, loose stools is often delayed. Roseola is the most extreme example. Fever may be the only symptom for 2 or 3 days. Then a rash appears. Bacterial Infections. A bladder infection is the most common cause of silent fever in girls.

Strep throat is also a common cause of unexplained fever. Vaccine Fever. Fever with most vaccines begins within 12 hours. It lasts 2 to 3 days. This is normal and harmless. It means the vaccine is working. Newborn Fever Serious. There are many reasons why your little one might develop a fever. Young infants are more likely than older children to have a cause for their fever that requires treatment. Infants 3 months and older with low-grade fevers can be treated at home with proper care if no other concerning symptoms develop.

Infants with persistent or high fevers should be assessed by a doctor. Normal temperature hovers somewhere close to This temperature can vary slightly from morning to evening. Body temperatures are generally lower when you wake up and higher in the afternoon and evening. Infants under 3 months old with a fever require immediate medical attention to diagnose the underlying cause and treat it if necessary. A slightly elevated temperature in an infant older than 3 months may not require a trip to the doctor.

You may be able to treat the fever at home with the following methods:. Doses are usually based on weight. For higher fevers or other symptoms that are making your infant uncomfortable, medication can help them temporarily feel better.

Dress your infant in lightweight clothing and use just a sheet or light blanket to keep them comfortable and cool. This can help prevent them from overheating. Try sponging your baby down with lukewarm water. Water temperature should feel warm, but not hot, to the touch on your inner arm.