Fever in Children: When to Worry and When to Treat at Home

Fever is one of the most common reasons parents seek medical advice, and it can be stressful—especially when your child feels miserable or unusually warm. The good news is that a fever is usually a sign that the body is fighting an infection, not something dangerous on its own. Knowing when to watch, when to treat, and when to seek help can make the experience much less frightening.

What Is a Fever?

A fever is typically defined as a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher. While the number on the thermometer matters, your child’s overall behavior is often a more important indicator of how sick they are.

When You Can Treat at Home

Most fevers are caused by common viral infections such as colds, flu, or stomach bugs. Home care is usually enough when your child:

• Is drinking fluids and staying hydrated

• Is alert, responsive, and still interested in playing between rest periods

• Has mild symptoms like runny nose or sore throat

• Is older than 3 months with no concerning medical history

To help them feel more comfortable:

• Offer plenty of fluids

• Dress them in light clothing

• Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for discomfort (never aspirin in children)

• Ensure they get rest

Remember: the goal isn’t to “normalize” the temperature—it’s to help your child feel better.

When to Worry

Seek medical care promptly if your child has:

• A fever in a baby under 3 months (always call your doctor)

• Fever lasting more than 3 days

• Trouble breathing, persistent vomiting, severe headache, or signs of dehydration

• A rash that spreads quickly or looks unusual

• Stiff neck, extreme irritability, or difficulty waking

• A seizure associated with the fever (even though febrile seizures are often harmless, they should still be evaluated)

  
  

Trust Your Instincts

You know your child best. If something feels “off,” even if they don’t fit a specific category, it’s completely appropriate to call your pediatrician or seek urgent care. Frontier Family Pharmacy is here to help you through this cold season, with advice and guidance to keep you and your loved ones healthy.