Picking up your baby after a nap, only to feel the heat radiating from their little body, can send a wave of anxiety through any parent. Your baby feels like a space heater and as panic sets in, your mind races. Could this be a fever? What could be causing it? Fevers in babies can indeed be unsettling, especially when the source isn’t immediately clear.
While some fevers need urgent medical attention, like those in newborns or those over 105°F in older children, many fevers are a sign that your baby’s body is working to fight off a mild infection. Understanding how to measure, monitor, and address fevers is key to keeping your baby safe and healthy.
What is a Fever?
Fevers often occur an infection. The immune system raises the body’s temperature to help defeat the invading germs. This heat can slow down the germs and supercharge the body’s immune response, turning the fever into a natural defense mechanism.
When Is It Considered a Fever?
If your baby’s temperature reaches 100.4°F or higher, it’s considered a fever. In infants under two months, this is an emergency, and you should head to the ER immediately. For older babies, you can often manage the fever at home, but a temperature reaching 105°F warrants an urgent call to your healthcare provider or a trip to the ER.
Causes of Fevers in Babies
Infections are the primary cause of fevers in babies, but not every rise in temperature means there’s a significant issue. Fevers can also be triggered by:
- Immunizations
- Overheating or overdressing
- Teething
If the fever is due to overdressing, simply removing a layer or moving your baby to a cooler environment can quickly bring the temperature down. Fevers following vaccinations or during teething usually resolve within a day or two.
Taking Your Baby’s Temperature
There are various methods available, though some prove to be more reliable than others. Let’s take a look at a few of them:
- Rectal Temperature
This method is the gold standard for infants. While it might make parents uncomfortable, it provides the most accurate reading for younger babies. Simply use a rectal thermometer, insert it about half an inch to an inch (depending on the age), and wait for the beep. Be cautious not to insert it too far to avoid any harm. - Ear Temperature
Tympanic (ear) thermometers are another option for babies older than six months. This method is quick and painless, though it might not be suitable for infants with ear infections, as the discomfort could make it difficult to get an accurate reading. - Armpit Temperature
While this method is often used by parents, it tends to be less accurate. The reading can be used as a rough guide, but it’s not as reliable as rectal or ear measurements. - Forehead Temperature
Temporal thermometers that scan the forehead are easy to use and increasingly popular, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, their accuracy can vary, so make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Temperature Variations by Method
Different methods can produce varying results. For instance, rectal and ear temperatures are often higher, while armpit and forehead readings may be lower. Understanding these variations can help you better interpret your baby’s condition. If you’re ever unsure, it’s always a good idea to call your pediatrician.
Signs of Fever in Babies
Fevers can make your baby feel miserable, and they will likely show signs of discomfort. Common indicators of a fever include:
- Sweating
- Warm skin
- Flushed cheeks
- Fussiness and irritability
- Decreased appetite
- Unusual calmness or lethargy
In rare cases, fevers can trigger febrile seizures in babies. While alarming, these seizures often resolve quickly without causing harm. Nevertheless, if your baby experiences one, seek immediate medical attention.
How to Manage a Baby’s Fever
If your baby has a fever, it’s essential to consider whether or not treatment is necessary. A fever, after all, serves a purpose: it helps the body fight infection. However, if your baby is uncomfortable, there are several steps you can take to help them feel better.
Medication
Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce fever symptoms, but always follow your pediatrician’s dosing guidelines. Remember that ibuprofen is only for babies over six months old, and never give aspirin, as it can cause a serious condition called Reye’s Syndrome.
Non-Medication Strategies
If you’d prefer to avoid medication, there are a few natural ways to help your baby feel more comfortable:
- Dress them lightly. Dressing your baby in too many layers can cause their body to retain heat, potentially worsening the fever.
- Room-temperature baths. A gentle soak can bring down body heat, but avoid cold baths as they can distress your baby.
- Cold compresses. Applying a cool washcloth to your baby’s forehead, wrists, or groin can help reduce the fever.
When to Call the Doctor
Knowing when to seek professional help can ease some of the stress of managing a fever. Here are a few signs that it’s time to call your healthcare provider:
- For newborns under two months: Any fever over 100.4°F is an emergency.
- For older babies: If their fever reaches 105°F or lasts for more than 24 hours, you should contact your pediatrician.
- Other symptoms: Look out for dehydration (no wet diapers in 12 hours), difficulty swallowing, trouble breathing, inconsolable crying, purple spots on the skin, or a stiff neck.
Fevers in Older Babies
Fevers in older babies and children can sometimes indicate more serious issues. If your child experiences burning or pain when urinating, a rash, or a fever that persists for more than five days, it’s essential to seek medical advice. If they’ve recently traveled abroad or have an underlying medical condition, inform your healthcare provider as well.
Final Thoughts
A fever can be daunting for parents, but it’s often a sign that your baby’s immune system is hard at work. Keep an eye on their temperature, monitor for any concerning symptoms, and make sure they’re comfortable and well-hydrated. Most importantly, give them lots of snuggles and comfort as they recover. Fevers, like all parenting challenges, are temporary this too shall pass.
