When Should I Take My Child to Urgent Care for A Fever? 

Do you ever wonder why you often feel cold and start to shiver yet have high temperatures? These are defining traits of fever, a condition that prompts the body’s immune system to respond to the temperature changes in the body.

What Is a Fever?

A fever is a temporary increase in body temperature, usually caused by an underlying infection or illness. The normal body temperature of a human being ranges between 97°F (36.1°C) and 99°F (37.2°C). However, when you have a fever, a doctor can generally define it as a body temperature of above 100.4°F (38°C). Still, the stakes are different for children and adults.

Common Symptoms of a Fever

Your initial health condition will affect the symptoms you experience when you have a fever. Therefore, sometimes fever is part of the symptoms you experience alongside others to point to an underlying disease. In other cases, the fever is the major symptom. In addition to a higher-than-normal body temperature, other symptoms associated with fever may include:

1. Body chills and shivering
2. Sweating
3. Headaches
4. Muscle aches
5. Fatigue
6. Loss of appetite
7. Irritability
8. General body weakness
9. Dehydration

Understanding Fevers for Children

Fever is a natural response to infection or illness, as it helps to activate the immune system and fight off invading pathogens. Before seeking urgent care in Richmond, TX, understand that the causes of fever in children revolve around health conditions and abrupt changes in the body, including the following:

1. Viral or bacterial infections
2. Teeth growing
3. Ear infections
4. Colds and the flu

When Is a Fever an Emergency for Children?

Fever is a common symptom in children and is usually not a cause for alarm. However, in some cases, it can be a sign of a more serious illness and require emergency medical attention in an urgent care clinic near you. If you are worried about whether or not you should take your child to a doctor at Sunrise Urgent Care Center for treatment, here are some general guidelines to consider for fevers as emergencies:

1. Infants under 3 months old with a fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
2. Children between 3 months and 3 years with a fever over 102°F (38.9°C)
3. If the fever lasts more than one day and steadily worsens
4. If the child has other symptoms, such as lethargy, dehydration, rash, seizures, difficulty breathing, severe headache, confusion, stiff neck, or other concerning symptoms

What to Do About A Fever At Home

If you or your child has a fever, there are several things you can do at home to help manage the symptoms and promote recovery, including the following:

1. Stay hydrated – fevers can cause dehydration. Drink plenty of water and fluids, such as clear broth or electrolyte drinks.
2. Rest – will help the body fight the underlying infection or illness causing the fever.
3. Dress comfortably – choose lightweight clothing and light bedding to help regulate the body temperature.
4. Take fever-reducing medications – there is nothing wrong with relying on over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). They can help reduce fever and alleviate other symptoms you have been experiencing, like headaches or muscle aches.
5. Take a tepid bath – a lukewarm bath or sponge bath can help lower the body temperature, providing relief from your discomfort.
6. Monitor the fever – you should keep track of the body temperature to note any changes or trends over time. If you do not have the tools, you can touch the forehead with the back of your hand. It usually feels very hot when you have a fever. If the fever persists or gets worse despite all treatment efforts at home, seek urgent care near you.

Summary

Every parent should note that these are general guidelines. Therefore, do not use them as the final guide to determine whether your child is okay. Instead, consult a doctor if you have any concerns about your child’s fever. Further, if your child has an underlying medical condition or is taking medication that affects their immune system, they may be at higher risk for complications from fever and should be evaluated by a doctor promptly.