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Fever is a common symptom which can show in
your child due to numerous factors and is a common symptom of many childhood
illnesses with the most common cause being a viral infection. One of the
main factors which your Doctor will have to determine is that the fever
has been brought about due to a viral infection and not a bacterial one.
The reason why this is important is because a viral infection won't respond
to antibiotics whereas in most cases a bacterial one will need treatment
with antibiotics in order to clear up.
A fever is very rarely brought about for other reasons not associated
with infections but in cases such as these, the fever will normally have
been present for weeks or even months on and off rather than just being
associated with any current infection your child may have.
How do I know if my child has a fever?
There were always thought to be three basic ways of taking your child's
temperature but today with the advancements made in technology digital
ear thermometers are now thought to be the best, quickest and most reliable
way to take a child's temperature.
These can be purchased from any chemist and will give an accurate reading
in just a couple of minutes or less, along with the digital thermometer
are strips that can be purchased which are stuck to the child's forehead
and are thought to be just as good and reliable as the digital ear thermometer.
Methods which were used prior to this new technology were by mouth using
a stick thermometer, rectally and axillary or under the armpit.
What is a normal temperature?
On average the normal temperature is said to be around 98.6 f or 37c,
there is said to be a fever present if the temperature is around 99f or
37.2c or above.
When should I call the Doctor?
Giving your child pain relief medication such as calpol which is available
in different strengths depending on the age of your child can help to
reduce the fever.
A luke warm sponge bath may also be given to refresh the child although
care should be taken not to use cold water, and you should make sure your
child wears comfortable clothing that isn't too restricting.
You might have to call the Doctor if the fever reaches 103f or 38.5c and
doesn't show signs of coming down or if your child is unusually ill, tired
or very drowsy, if the fever lasts for more than three days, or if the
child is a very young baby.
If there is any sign of a bright red rash then you should seek the advice
of a Doctor or health care visitor immediately or if you have any other
cause for concern about the health of your child.
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