How to Handle Baby’s Fever Without the Worry
A baby’s immune system is designed to fight infection, and a fever is actually a healthy response. Whether due to a viral or bacterial infection, the rise in the body’s temperature helps kill the invaders.
That said, any baby fever can be scary for parents. A high temperature should be monitored and medical attention may be necessary. Here’s how to keep your cool in the chance that your baby has a fever, plus get tips for helping your child feel better.
What is Considered a Fever in Babies?
The American Academy of Pediatrics considers a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees F (38 degrees C), or higher, a fever in babies.
If baby is 12 weeks or younger and has a temp of 100.4 F+ call the doctor immediately. Young babies are at much higher risk of serious infection and should be evaluated right away.
If baby is 3 months or older, has a fever of 100.4 to 103 F, and is drinking fluids and interacting normally, you most likely don’t need to worry. If the fever persists for 24 hours or baby isn’t getting better, call the doctor.
Usually a fever higher than 103.5 F is reason alone to call the doctor.
Many pediatricians agree that a baby fever of 103.5-104 or higher is cause for concern, regardless of other symptoms.
If baby is acting lethargic or has any abnormal symptoms, the telling numbers for a serious fever become: 101+ for babies 3–6 months old, or 103+ for babies older than 6 months.
When to Seek Medical Care
If your baby’s fever is accompanied by any of these symptoms, contact your health care professional.
- Unusual fussiness
- Pale complexion or any type of rash
- Lethargy
- Exhibits signs of neck pain
- Loss of appetite
- Bad cough
- Pulling at ears or other signs of an earache
- Vomiting or diarrhea or significantly fewer wet diapers (baby may be dehydrated)
Many natural-minded parents choose to avoid using over the counter fever reducers, but they may offer some relief to a dangerously high fever. It’s best to check with your health care provider to know if an intervention is necessary. Conventional medicine has its uses, so make sure you’re not compromising your baby’s health or comfort by seeing things too black or white.
Safe Home Remedies to Comfort Baby’s Fever
If baby’s fever is within a safe range, try natural remedies to make them comfortable and support the body’s ability to ward it off.
Breastfeed your baby
Mother’s milk helps keep baby hydrated with fluids, natural probiotics, and electrolytes. It also gives her easy-to-digest nutrition so that her body can be nourished without having to spend too much energy on digestion.
Try a cool compress
A cool compress (or lukewarm sponge bath) may make her more comfortable. If it has the opposite effect, try other means of keeping her from holding heat in. You can also soak a washcloth in diluted apple cider vinegar and apply to baby’s forehead. Or try adding a cup of ACV to a lukewarm bath.
Give baby water and nourishing liquids
Breastmilk is ideal for small babies. Water can help keep your child hydrated. For older babies, broths provide nourishment and gut-healing gelatin. Try homemade bone broth, mineral broth, chicken soup, or other nourishing liquids. Healthy fats and minerals are a natural immune system boost.
Hold your baby
The healing power of touch releases oxytocin, the feel-good hormone, which also promotes healing. You can try skin to skin contact. Don’t bundle baby or yourself to avoid overheating.
Help your little one rest
Sleep heals many ills. Do whatever you can to help your baby sleep. And keep them close enough to monitor for any changes in baby fever or their overall health.