How to Reduce Child's Fever - Blog of the children's educational center

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In case your baby under 3 months old has a fever exceeding 38°C, head to the nearest emergency department.

When a child has a fever, it’s important to take steps to bring it down and make them more comfortable. Here are some tips to help lower a child’s fever:

Give them plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
Dress them in light clothing and keep the room temperature cool.
Use a lukewarm sponge bath to help reduce the fever.
Give them acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed by their healthcare provider.
Monitor their temperature regularly and seek medical advice if the fever persists or if the child shows other concerning symptoms.

It’s important to remember that a fever is usually a sign that the body is fighting off an infection, so it’s not always necessary to bring it down completely. However, if a child is uncomfortable or their fever is high, these tips can help provide relief.

Key facts

Fevers in children are usually due to viral infections.
Kids with fevers may show symptoms like high temperature, flushing, sweating, and shivering.
Most kids with fevers can be treated at home.
If a child under 3 months has a fever, seek immediate medical help.
It’s important to monitor the child’s temperature regularly and provide plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
Dress the child in light clothing and keep the room temperature comfortable to help reduce the fever.
If the fever persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consult a healthcare provider.

What is a fever?

A fever refers to a body temperature of 38°C or higher, which is common in young children.

In many cases, fevers can be managed at home, with mild symptoms typically linked to viral infections.

It is important to monitor a fever and seek medical attention if it persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.

Common causes of fevers in babies include teething, vaccinations, and common childhood illnesses like colds and flu.

In addition to the symptoms mentioned, other signs of fever in children may include a higher than normal body temperature, sweating, shivering, headache, muscle aches, dehydration, and a rapid heart rate. It’s important to monitor your child’s fever and be aware of any changes in their condition.

If your child’s fever is persistent, very high, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause of the fever and recommend the appropriate treatment.

What causes fever in children?

Fever helps the body fight infections, often caused by viruses in children. Infections can also be bacterial.

Common causes of fevers in children include viral infections, sometimes triggered by childhood vaccinations. Less common causes are conditions such as inflammation, immune system issues, or medication side effects.

Teething does not cause a fever.

How is the cause of fever in children diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask about your child’s symptoms, general well-being, recent travels, possible exposure to infections, medications, and vaccination history.

Your doctor may run tests to determine the cause of the fever.

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When should I take my child to see a doctor?

Seek immediate medical help if your child shows certain alarming symptoms or if the fever lasts more than 2 days.

is vomiting
has a rash
has a fever above 40 degrees
has a seizure
has persistent symptoms like headaches or abdominal pain

When to seek urgent care

If your child with immune system issues has a fever above 38°C, visit the emergency department.

Call emergency services if your child is drowsy, having trouble breathing, or has a stiff neck.

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When to seek medical help

If your child has a fever that lasts more than a few days, is accompanied by a rash, difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, or other concerning symptoms, contact a healthcare provider.

Tips for managing fever in children

Encourage your child to rest and get plenty of sleep.
Use a cool compress on their forehead to help reduce fever.
Offer fluids such as water, clear broths, and electrolyte solutions to prevent dehydration.
Monitor their temperature regularly and keep track of any changes.

Preventing the spread of illness

Teach your child to wash their hands regularly, cover their mouth when coughing or sneezing, and avoid close contact with others when they are sick.

By following these tips and seeking medical advice when necessary, you can effectively manage fever in children and promote their health and well-being.

What are the complications of fever in children?

Febrile seizures caused by fevers are common in young children but often not harmful. Medical attention is necessary to rule out serious infection.

In addition to febrile seizures, other complications of fever in children may include dehydration, especially if the child is not drinking enough fluids. It’s important to ensure that the child stays hydrated during a fever to prevent this complication.

Fever can also be a sign of a more serious infection, such as pneumonia or meningitis, so it’s important to monitor the child’s symptoms closely and seek medical attention if there are any concerns.

In rare cases, high fevers can lead to febrile delirium, where the child may become confused or disoriented. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment.

Overall, while fevers are common in children and often not harmful, it’s important to monitor the child closely and seek medical attention if there are any concerning symptoms or complications.

Can fever be prevented?

Practice good hygiene to prevent children from getting infections.

sneezing or coughing into a tissue or your elbow
not sharing items with sick individuals
keeping unwell children at home
ensuring children receive vaccinations
encouraging regular hand washing
maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle
keeping living spaces clean and germ-free

Resources and Support

Find information on fever in children from the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne and the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, available in multiple languages.

Contact the healthdirect helpline for advice from registered nurses 24/7.

NCBI Bookshelf. A service of the National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.

InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-.

InformedHealth.org [Internet].

Last Update: December 9, 2022 ; Next update: 2025.

If children have a fever, they may not always require medication unless very unwell or with a very high temperature.

Lowering a fever may not relieve overall illness-related discomfort, and some methods, such as homeopathy, are ineffective.

What are the medication options?

Fever-reducing medication works by blocking substances that raise body temperature, like prostaglandins. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are common options for children.

These medications can come in the form of suppositories, syrups, or tablets and should be used according to age and weight guidelines.

When a child has a fever, it can be challenging to determine if it’s severe enough to see a doctor. Acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen dosage varies by age and weight. Under six months, consult a doctor first. Wait 6 to 8 hours between doses. Side effects may include diarrhea or vomiting. Seek medical advice if fever persists after three days or exceeds 104°F for more than four hours. Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin) is only for doctor’s orders due to Reye’s syndrome risk. Combining acetaminophen and ibuprofen may be effective, but effects are unclear. Strategies like wrapping in wet towels or lukewarm baths can help cool the body’s surface. Also, dress them lightly, offer cool drinks, and keep the room comfortable. Contact a provider if a fever persists or worsens, or if certain symptoms occur.

Does using both medications have any advantages?

It’s not clear if combining acetaminophen and ibuprofen is beneficial. Cooling measures help manage fever, while hydration and a bland diet are important. Dress lightly and offer fluids regularly. Medication dosage should be based on weight and age, with regular checking of instructions. Seek help if fever persists or worsens, and consider a lukewarm bath to help reduce fever.

Initial fevers in babies can be concerning, but most are harmless. Report any fever over 100.4°F in a newborn to their provider. Fever is a natural defense mechanism, and febrile seizures are often brief and harmless. Maintain hydration and offer bland foods, dressing the child comfortably. Fever management through medications and lukewarm baths can help alleviate symptoms. Seek medical help if symptoms worsen or specific criteria are met.

Additional Tips for Managing Fever:

Monitor your baby’s temperature regularly.
Keep the room at a comfortable temperature.
Avoid overdressing or overbundling your baby.
Give appropriate doses of acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed by your healthcare provider.
Offer plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
Use a lukewarm cloth to sponge your baby’s forehead, armpits, and groin to help lower the temperature.
If your baby seems unwell or you are concerned, contact your healthcare provider for further advice.

Treating Your Child’s Fever

Keep your child lightly dressed to manage their fever, complemented by a comfortable room. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are effective in lowering fever, but only as per the provider’s recommendation depending on the child’s age. Contact a provider if symptoms worsen. Lukewarm baths are preferred for fever reduction while avoiding cold baths or alcohol rubs.

When to Call the Doctor

Contact a provider if symptoms persist, worsen, or specific criteria are met. Call emergency services if serious symptoms like seizures or difficulty breathing occur.

Alternative Names

References

Patient Instructions

Review Date 11/6/2023

Reviewed by Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, and David C. Dugdale, MD, among others.

Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, is a board-certified physician with a background in healthcare administration. He brings his expertise in both medical practice and healthcare management to provide comprehensive reviews of medical information.

David C. Dugdale, MD, is a seasoned medical professional with years of experience in clinical practice. His insights and knowledge contribute to the accuracy and credibility of the reviews conducted.

Fever Management

When your child has a fever, it’s vital to provide comfort and monitor their behavior rather than just focusing on the number on the thermometer.

Infants Under Three Months

For infants under three months of age, a temperature of 100.4 or higher requires immediate medical attention to rule out dangerous infections.

High Fevers and Seizures

Fevers over 104 don’t cause brain damage; extreme temperatures or environmental factors are more likely to lead to such complications. Febrile seizures are rare and typically harmless.

Treating Fevers

Fevers between 102 and 103 may require treatment if they cause discomfort, but it’s essential to remember that fevers help the body fight infections. Medications like Tylenol and Motrin can help manage symptoms but won’t necessarily bring the fever down completely.

Recurring Fevers

If a fever doesn’t respond to medication and persists, it doesn’t always indicate a serious problem. It’s essential to consider other symptoms and observe how your child is behaving.

Some common causes of recurring fevers in children include viral infections, bacterial infections, inflammatory conditions, and underlying medical conditions such as autoimmune disorders. If your child is experiencing recurring fevers, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause.

Hydration and Comfort

Managing Your Child’s Fever

When dealing with a fever in your child, it is important to focus on ensuring their comfort, providing plenty of fluids, and avoiding excessive clothing. It is essential to remember not to give Aspirin to children under the age of 18, and to be mindful of the correct dosages for Tylenol and Motrin based on your child’s weight.

Teething itself is not the direct cause of fevers in children; rather, fevers in teething children are typically a result of the body’s immune response to other underlying illnesses.

_{Updated: December 17, 2024}
_{Originally published: May 27, 2015}