A fever is one of the most common medical issues affecting children. Sometimes a fever will go away without treatment, but sometimes a fever signals a medical issue that needs to be seen by a pediatrician. Dr. C. Turner Lewis III at Children’s Medical Clinics in Kaufman, TX, offers comprehensive pediatric medical services, including treatment of fever.
What You Need To Know About Managing Your Child’s Fever and When To Visit the Pediatrician
If your child develops a fever, it could be a sign of a viral or bacterial infection. You need to take your child’s temperature regularly. For a mild fever, you should:
- Give your child over-the-counter fever-reducing medication like Children’s Tylenol
- Give your child a sponge bath to make your child more comfortable
- Apply a cold washcloth to your child’s forehead or face to improve comfort
- Have your child suck on popsicles to cool and soothe your child
If your child’s fever doesn’t resolve or increases, it’s time to visit your pediatrician. You also need to visit your pediatrician if your child has:
- A temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher and your child is under 4 months old
- A temperature of over 104 degrees and your child is 4 months or older
- A fever that hasn’t resolved after 2 to 3 days
A fever can also indicate a serious underlying medical condition, so you need to bring your child to visit the pediatrician if the fever is accompanied by:
- A rash or bruising
- Shortness of breath
- Nonstop crying
- A seizure or a stiff neck
- Pain while urinating
- Decreased urine output
Want To Know More About Managing a Fever, and When To Visit Your Pediatrician?
To find out more about managing a fever and when to visit the pediatrician, talk with the experts. Call Dr. C. Turner Lewis III at Children’s Medical Clinics in Kaufman, TX. You can reach him in either office location by calling (972) 932-1319, so call today.