Let’s talk about fevers!
As a parent, we are taught that fevers are bad, scary and are always of concern. We are taught to suppress them right away, no matter the temperature, even if the child feels ‘warm.’
I have had many patients over the years that are told by their pediatrician to administer children’s Tylenol for infants, even though the warning on the box clearly states that it is not to be given to children under the age of 2.
This is a good time for me to remind you how incredibly intelligent the body is! It is always trying to protect you, always trying to find balance.
When the body gives a rash, it is a warning sign trying to alert you that something is off; this is similar to how a check engine light pops on in a car to warn you that something is off underneath the hood. I say this jokingly, but you would never cover up the check engine light with a black piece of tape and continue driving the car. That makes no sense and it would be potentially dangerous. Yet, we do this with our bodies every single day.
When we vomit, it is the body working to get rid of something. Again, absolutely incredible design!
A fever is no different. The immune system is so smart that it raises the temperature to fight off infection and to regulate healing in the body. A fever is a good thing, for all children above the age of 3 months, as it tells us the immune system is functioning properly.
Seattle Children’s Hospital put out a great article about myth vs. fact when it comes to fevers. A few key points that they shared include:
If the child feels warm, it does not mean they have a fever. Roughly 80% of children who act sick and feel warm do not have a fever. Children can become warm from playing, crying, hot weather and more. If you are concerned, take their temperature and reference the values below:
Rectal (bottom), ear or forehead temperature: 100.4° F (38.0° C) or higher
Oral (mouth) temperature: 100° F (37.8° C) or higher
Under the arm (Armpit) temperature: 99° F (37.2° C) or higher
Not all fevers are bad for children because they turn on the body's immune system and aid in fighting off infection. Normal fevers between 100° and 104° F (37.8° - 40° C) are good for sick children. Fevers only need to be treated if they cause discomfort (makes your child feel bad). Most fevers don't cause discomfort until they go above 102° or 103° F (39° or 39.5° C).
Fevers with infections don't cause brain damage. Only temperatures above 108° F (42° C) can cause brain damage. It's very rare for the body temperature to climb this high unless the air temperature is extremely high such as when a child left in a closed car during hot weather.
Fevers are not the bad guy; they are the body doing the right thing at the right time to fight off infection.
For more fever myth vs. fact, check out the link below.
https://www.seattlechildrens.org/conditions/a-z/fever-myths-versus-facts/
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for educational purposes only. As always, if you have concerns regarding your or your child’s health, please reach out to your primary health care provider.