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It usually starts with a cranky baby and flushed cheeks. Next, you are asking, "Does she feel warm to you?" Then you have to find the thermometer and one of you takes the temperature while the other holds the baby. Sure enough, your instinct was right, and the baby has a fever. Now what?
First, realize that fever in and of itself is not a bad thing. It is the body's normal response to infection. When the immune system is fighting infection, it releases chemicals that raise the body's temperature. This causes fever and is actually a sign that your baby's immune system is working. Low-grade fevers (less than 101 degrees) are usually not serious. They are generally easily treated and may go away on their own without medical intervention. My nine-month-old has only had one fever thus far, but it was low-grade and was gone within a few hours. Mid-grade fevers (between 101 and 103 degrees) are also usually not serious. They may take a bit longer to resolve but still are not a sign of a serious infection by themselves. Even higher fevers (over 103 degrees) that quickly come down to 100 or 101 are usually not life-threatening, either. While I would definitely contact the doctor if my child had a mid- or high-grade fever, I would wait until regular office hours unless I had other reasons for concern.
Fever is a natural response to infection, but the presence of fever does mean that something is causing the immune system to react. There are times when the fever is an indication of a serious illness and you should call your doctor immediately. It is considered a medical emergency if your baby is less than six weeks old and has a fever of 101 degrees or higher. Also, there are times that a fever in an older baby or child also warrants a call to the doctor or a trip to the emergency room. Fevers of 104 degrees or higher that do not respond to treatment need to be diagnosed. If your child is lethargic, crying for several hours straight, or complains of neck pain in combination with a fever, call the doctor. All of these symptoms can be signs of serious illnesses. As always, follow your intuition. If you believe that your child is in need of medical care, seek it, regardless of symptoms. Parents usually know best and it is always better to err on the side of caution.
In order to help your baby through the fever, there are several methods of treatment. If the fever is low-grade, don't worry about treatment yet. It should pass on its own. For mid- and high-grade fevers, you can give the recommended amount of baby acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Either medication is safe for babies two months and up, but check with your doctor for specific information regarding dosing for your child. My pediatrician gave us a dosing guide chart during one of our regular check-ups.
Lukewarm baths and cold washcloths can provide a measure of comfort. Cold drinks are helpful. Bring out the popsicles, too. It is vital to make sure that your child doesn't become dehydrated, so whatever liquid you can get her to take, let her have it. You can go back to normal when the infection passes, but for now, it is important to wash that infection out.
Like all parents, I hate seeing a fever color my child's cheeks. However, I have found that it usually passes quickly (most of time even before the doctor's appointment I frantically made as soon as the office opened). Most children will experience several fevers during their childhoods, so learning how to deal with them now will be helpful for years to come. Just remember that the fever is actually a sign that the body is working as it should, and try to limit your own emotional reactions. That way, the baby will stay calmer, get better faster, and life can return to normal.
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