{"id":68354,"date":"2022-12-19T11:00:01","date_gmt":"2022-12-19T19:00:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.metropediatrics.com\/?p=68354"},"modified":"2023-09-08T13:46:29","modified_gmt":"2023-09-08T20:46:29","slug":"how-to-manage-your-childs-fever","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.metropediatrics.com\/pediatric-blog\/how-to-manage-your-childs-fever\/","title":{"rendered":"How Do I Care for My Child’s Fever?"},"content":{"rendered":"

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There\u2019s something in the air and no, it\u2019s not holiday magic \u2013 it\u2019s RSV, influenza, and a bunch of nasty colds. If your child comes down with a fever, it\u2019s likely from a viral infection and not serious. Although fevers are harmless and often helpful, they keep many parents up at night, watching and worrying. If you’re ever in doubt about what to do, or your child\u2019s symptoms have you concerned, please call us for 24\/7 Nurse Advice.\u00a0Remember, if you\u2019re up and concerned, so are we. We\u2019re happy to be there for you, so you can get the answers you need and hopefully some Zzzs too.<\/p>\n

What is a Fever?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

A fever is a body temperature that\u2019s higher than normal (100.4\u00b0F or higher). Fevers with most viral illnesses last for 2 or 3 days and help your body fight the infection. Some viruses, such as influenza, can cause fevers for 5 to 6 days. For most kids and adults, fevers are uncomfortable, but not cause for concern.<\/p>\n

For older babies and kids, the way they act is a more important measurement of how sick they are (rather than just the thermometer reading). Everyone gets a little grumpy when they have a fever. Appetites may also be decreased. This is normal and should be expected.<\/p>\n

Managing Your Child\u2019s Fever<\/h2>\n

Not every fever needs to be treated. If your child is still interested in playing and drinking well, no medication is needed. Instead, make your child more comfortable by dressing them lightly, offering extra fluids (popsicles are usually welcome relief), and giving them lukewarm baths.<\/p>\n

Give medicine only when a fever causes your child discomfort. Fever-reducing medicines are acetaminophen (Tylenol or a store brand) and ibuprofen for kids 6 months and older (Advil, Motrin, or a store brand). Do not treat fevers with medication in infants younger than 3 months of age, unless instructed by your pediatrician.<\/p>\n

Children\u2019s Tylenol, Advil, and Motrin Shortage<\/h2>\n

In recent weeks, parents and other caregivers have had a tough time finding children\u2019s Tylenol, Advil, and Motrin for their sick children. With such high demand for these over-the-counter products, stores can\u2019t restock their shelves fast enough. Remember, generic medications contain the same drug as name brands. Look for acetaminophen (the drug name for Tylenol) or ibuprofen (for Motrin and Advil).<\/p>\n

Do not give aspirin to children of any age.<\/strong> It can lead to Reye\u2019s Syndrome, a condition that causes swelling in the liver and brain.<\/p>\n

Under the guidance of your pediatrician, adult medications may be given to children for fever relief. Refer to the charts below to determine the correct dosage based on the child\u2019s weight. Tablets can be crushed and added to food like applesauce, pudding, or chocolate syrup for easier swallowing.[\/vc_column_text][vc_toggle title=”Acetaminophen (Tylenol)”]Give 1 dose every 4-6 hours as needed.<\/p>\n

Acetaminophen should not be given to infants younger than 2 months old.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Child\u2019s Weight (Pounds)<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nNumber of Regular Strength (325mg) Acetaminophen Tablets Per Dose<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nMaximum Doses Per Day<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
12-17 lbs.<\/td>\n1\/4 (one quarter)<\/td>\n5<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
18-23 lbs.<\/td>\n1\/3 (one third)<\/td>\n5<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
24-35 lbs.<\/td>\n1\/2 (one half)<\/td>\n5<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
36-47 lbs.<\/td>\n3\/4 (three quarters)<\/td>\n5<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
48-71 lbs.<\/td>\n1<\/td>\n5<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

[\/vc_toggle][vc_toggle title=”Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin)”]Give 1 dose every 6-8 hours as needed.<\/p>\n

Ibuprofen should not be given to infants younger than 6 months old.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Child\u2019s Weight (Pounds)<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nNumber of Regular Strength (200mg) Ibuprofen Tablets Per Dose<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\nMaximum Doses Per Day<\/strong><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
12-23 lbs.<\/td>\n1\/4 (one quarter)<\/td>\n4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
24-35 lbs.<\/td>\n1\/2 (one half)<\/td>\n4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
36-47 lbs.<\/td>\n3\/4 (three quarters)<\/td>\n4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
48-88 lbs.<\/td>\n1<\/td>\n4<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Age 12+ years<\/td>\n1-2 every 4-6 hours as needed<\/td>\nDaily maximum 1,200mg<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n

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When Should I Call the Doctor?<\/h2>\n

Call your pediatrician right away if your child:<\/p>\n