Children's Fever Rules

Fever is caused when the hypothalamus, which houses the internal thermostat of the body, raises the body's internal temperature above the normal 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, or 37 degrees Celsius. While body temperature tends to fluctuate during the day, it will rise significantly in response to an illness or infection -- usually in an attempt to fight off the illness. Any temperature above 100 degrees Fahrenheit is considered a fever. And while childhood fevers may be frightening for parents, most of them can be treated at home and do not require a physician's assistance.

Causes of Fevers

• A fever is not an illness in itself. It is a symptom, generally in response to an underlying illness or infection. Other causes of higher body temperatures in infants and children can be overdressing -- bundling up the child in too many clothes and/or blankets. Vaccinations may cause fevers as well. Teething can often cause a rise in body temperature, but generally not above 100 degrees.

Diagnosing a Fever

• A good thermometer is necessary to measure a child's body temperature. How to take your child's temperature accurately depends upon your child's age. For a child 3 months or younger, a digital thermometer can be inserted in the rectum using a lubricant and should be held in place until the thermometer beeps. An ear thermometer or a pacifier thermometer can be used for a child between 4 months and 4 years old. You can also use a rectal thermometer or take a temperature reading under the child's arm. Children 4 years and older should be able to hold a thermometer under the tongue, but if they are congested and cannot breathe through their nose other temperature-reading methods may be employed.

When is a Fever Serious?

• Even a higher fever -- between 102 and 104 degrees -- doesn't necessarily need medical treatment unless your child seems to be extremely uncomfortable or unusually lethargic. However, there are some exceptions to that rule.
  If your child is under 3 months of age and has a temperature of 100 degrees F or higher you should call the doctor or take your child to the emergency room. Very young children cannot regulate their body temperature, so even a slight fever could be the sign of a serious illness. For a child between 3 months and 3 years of age you should call the doctor if their temperature is above 102.2 degrees. If the their breathing seems labored or much faster than normal, or if the fever is accompanied by a rash, a stiff neck, earache, muscle pain or weakness, swelling or a severe headache, take them to the doctor or emergency room immediately.

Treatment for Fevers

• For aches and pains and general discomfort, children's acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be used. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions precisely. Never give your child aspirin. Don't be concerned if your child has a low appetite -- that is common, but make sure he or she has plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.