Does your little one have a fever? (Fever) Don't worry, let's talk about this!

I know that as a parent, it can be a big worry for you if your little one, whether it's a baby or a toddler, gets a fever. But actually, it's very common for little ones to get a fever. Most of the time, a fever isn't dangerous, and in fact, it can sometimes be a good thing. Let's talk about this in detail so that you can understand it better.

What exactly is fever?

Simply put, a fever is a condition in which our body temperature is higher than normal. We usually say that a body temperature of 38 degrees Celsius (38°C) or 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (100.4°F), or higher, is a fever . Now, did you know that there are several ways to measure body temperature. You can take a temperature in the armpit, mouth, ear, forehead, or even rectal temperature in small children. The value that is considered to be fever can vary slightly depending on these methods. But the general idea is the values ​​I mentioned earlier.

What causes fever in children?

The main reason babies and young children get a fever is because some kind of infection has entered the body. Think of it this way, the immune system acts like a bodyguard, fighting off the disease.

Infections are the main cause.

When a germ, such as a bacterium or a virus, enters the body, our immune system is activated and starts working against it. As a result of this fight, the body temperature increases, which is what causes a fever. Doctors believe that when the body temperature increases, the ability of those germs to grow inside the body decreases. So from that perspective, a fever is actually a good thing, right? It means that the body is fighting off the disease.

There may be other minor reasons.

There are several other situations where a fever can occur without an infection:

1. Overdressing

This especially affects newborns and infants under three months of age. Their ability to regulate body temperature is less than that of adults. So if the baby is well-dressed, well-wrapped, and kept in a slightly warm room, it can cause a fever.

But here's one thing to keep in mind. If a newborn baby (under 3 months old) has a fever, don't assume it's because they're too dressed. A fever in a baby that age can sometimes be a sign of a serious infection. So, you should definitely see a doctor.

2. When going for immunizations

Sometimes, after a baby receives a vaccination, they may develop a slight fever. This usually subsides within a day or so. It's nothing to worry about.

3. Even when teething? (Teething)

Some parents say that their baby gets a fever when they are teething. It is true that when teething, the body temperature can only rise slightly, I mean very slightly . But if it is a high fever that jumps to 37.8 degrees Celsius (37.8°C) or 100 degrees Fahrenheit (100°F), then it cannot be due to teething alone. There may be another reason.

What are the times when you should be afraid of a fever?

Most of the time, a fever in a healthy, well-behaved child is nothing serious. However, there are some cases where we should definitely be concerned.

At these times, you definitely need to see a doctor!

• Babies under 3 months: If your baby is under three months old and has a rectal temperature of 38 degrees Celsius (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher), you should see a doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency room immediately, without delay. This is very important.

This is because a fever in a baby of this age can be a sign of a serious infection, so it is important to act quickly.

• Children with other chronic health conditions: If your child has a long-term health condition, such as heart disease or kidney disease, it is very important to ask your doctor in advance what to do if they have a fever and when to call the doctor .

If a baby over 3 months old has these symptoms, there is usually nothing to worry about.

If your baby is over three months old and has a fever but shows these symptoms, it's most likely not a serious condition:

• If you are willing to play even if you have a fever.
• If you drink plenty of fluids (like water, milk, fruit juice ) .
• If you are in good spirits, smiling, and talking .
• If the skin color is normal (not blue or pale).
• It's okay to give some fever-reducing medicine, and if the fever goes down a bit and the child seems fine and healthy .

Don't worry too much about a child with a fever not wanting to eat. This is normal with infections that cause fever. The most important thing is to make sure your child is drinking plenty of fluids and urinating ( peeing ) normally. If that's the case, it's okay to eat less.

How do you recognize a fever in a baby? What are the symptoms?

Sometimes it's hard to tell if your baby has a fever, right? Look for these signs:

• If your body feels warmer than normal when you touch it.
• If there is a change in your baby's behavior . Maybe he is crying a lot, fussy or cranky. Or he may be quieter and more moody than usual.
• If your breathing rate seems a little faster than usual, or your heart rate seems a little higher .
• If you say you have a headache (if it's a slightly older child).
• If you feel cold, shivering (chills), or sweating .
• If the skin looks red or flushed .

If you see any of these signs, the best thing to do is to take your baby's temperature with a thermometer. That way, you can know exactly whether or not they have a fever, and how high it is.

So, remember this (Take-Home Message)

Okay, so let me summarize some of the important points we've discussed: 1. Don't worry: It's normal for little ones to have a fever. Most of the time, it's not dangerous. It's just a sign that your child's body is fighting an illness. 2. Take your temperature: If you feel like you have a fever, take it with a thermometer. A fever is 38°C (100.4°F) or higher. 3. Know the causes: The main cause is infection. Other factors that can also contribute to fever include being overdressed (especially in young babies) and getting vaccinated. 4. When should you see a doctor?

• If a baby under 3 months old has a fever (38°C/100.4°F or higher) – see a doctor immediately!
• If your child has other chronic illnesses , ask the doctor in advance what to do if they get a fever.
• If your child is very ill with a fever, has difficulty breathing, or has fits/seizures, go to the hospital immediately.

5. Watch your child's behavior: If your child is playing, drinking fluids, and smiling despite having a fever, there is usually nothing to worry about (for children over 3 months old). 6. Give plenty of fluids: Dehydration can occur when your child has a fever. Therefore, give them things like water, milk, porridge, and fruit juice frequently. 7. Reduce fever: Antipyretics like Paracetamol can be given as directed by a doctor. Aspirin should never be given to young children, unless directed by a doctor. Remember, you know your child best. If you have any concerns about a significant change in your child's behavior, never hesitate to call a doctor for advice!